Will cause severe burns that result in damage to the eyes and even blindness. Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical. The chronic local effect may consist of multiple areas of superficial destruction of the skin or of primary irritant dermatitis. Similarly, inhalation of dust, spray, or mist may result in varying degrees of irritation or damage to the respiratory tract tissues and an increased susceptibility to respiratory illness. A physician should be contacted if anyone develops any signs or symptoms and suspects that they are caused by exposure to sodium hydroxide.
Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkali and is corrosive to any tissue with which it comes in contact.
Sodium hydroxide is a respiratory irritant. Persons with pre-existing skin disorders or eye problems or impaired pulmonary function may be at increased risk from exposure, and should have limited exposure to this material. In cases of severe esophageal corrosion, the uses of therapeutic doses of steroids should be considered. General supportive measures with continual monitoring of gas exchange, acid-base balance, electrolytes, and fluid intake are also required. If the person is conscious, give him large quantities of water immediately to dilute the sodium hydroxide.