A sign off sheet should be kept that states the person has read this document and is aware of the unique dangers and special precautions that need to be taken when handling perchloric acid. Perchloric acid is a commonly used laboratory reagent. It is a clear, colorless liquid with no odor. Organic materials are especially susceptible to spontaneous combustion due to contact with perchloric acid. Routes of exposure include inhalation and ingestion.
Skin contact results in localized cracking and inflammation.
Perchloric acid is not listed as a carcinogen. Incompatables include flammables, acetic anhydride, bases, most metals and organic materials. As a result of its wide range of incompatible chemicals, perchloric acid is difficult to keep safely in storage. Ideally, perchloric acid should be stored in its own acid cabinet. However due to space considerations this is not always possible.