Shielding should be used between the apparatus and laboratory personnel in addition to wearing personal protective equipment. C. Fire and Explosion Properties Perchlorate fumes and dusts are irritating, and the acid can cause severe burns to the eyes, nose, and throat. The literature for more than a century reveals descriptions of explosions in laboratories using perchloric acid. The accidents are usually very severe, with the primary cause being contact of the acid with organic material, or the accidental formation of the anhydrous acid. A water spray can be used to extinguish small fires and cool fire-exposed containers.
Water is also the best preventative measure against the occurance of such fires.
However if more than a small contained fire is involved, vacate the area and notify the police by calling 9-911. D. Handling and Storage Guides Perchloric acid should not be purchased, stored, or handled until the potential user is familiar with the hazards and has read the manufacturer's MSDS and this section of the Chemical Safety Manual. Do not store perchloric acid near or in contact with combustible materials such as cotton, wood, excelsior, paper, burlap, rags, grease, oil, or organic compounds. Perchloric acid must be stored separately in a deep glass tray with sufficient capacity to hold the entire contents in case of breakage. Storage should be within a fume hood designated solely for perchloric acid use.