This supersedes a previous leaflet on the subject, and is aimed at employers and employees in industries where hydrofluoric acid is used.
Hydrofluoric acid is a highly corrosive chemical that can burn the skin and eyes on contact.
It is also an irritant which can cause respiratory problems and is toxic if swallowed. In organic chemistry it is used as a polar solvent and in its anhydrous form as a fluorinating agent or catalyst. The leaflet explains the health effects of exposure, sets out precautions that need to be taken, and gives advice for treatment following skin contact, eye contact, gassing, and swallowing. Priced packs of 10 are also available from HSE books.