Hydrofluoric acid is extremely corrosive to all tissues of the body.
Skin contact results in painful deep seated burns that are slow to heal.
Hydrofluoric acid and HF vapor can cause severe burns to the eyes, which may lead to permanent damage and blindness. At 10 to 15 ppm, HF vapor is irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Exposure to higher concentrations can result in serious damage to the lungs, and fatal pulmonary edema may develop after a delay of several hours. Please contact Rob MacCormick, 2-0363, if HF is in use in your work areas. Hazardous situations can occur if employees are not educated in general chemical safety, toxicological information, and procedures for handling and storage for the chemicals they are using.