Corrosive chemicals are used in different industrial applications. They are reactive fluids that can damage or destroy materials like wood, metals, and living tissue. The corrosive nature can cause some industries to consider less hazardous alternatives. But what do you do when this is not an option? You must put preventive measures to safely handle, store, and dispose of corrosive chemicals.
Examples Of Corrosive Chemicals:
Sodium Hydroxide {NaOH)
It is also known as caustic soda and is used as a corrosive base in numerous industrial applications. For instance, it is used in papermaking and cosmetic production. Sodium hydroxide also features in soap production because it breaks down fats. However, the chemical can be highly damaging if it comes into contact with the skin or eye, inhaled, or swallowed.
Hydrofluoric Acid (Hf)
Hydrofluoric acid is inorganic and is primarily used in metal cleaning. The chemical’s properties allow it to dissolve oxides and impurities on metal surfaces. The acid is highly corrosive, and exposure can result in severe injuries. Victims might not know of the injuries because they are not painful or immediately visible; after all, the damage has reached the nerves. HF is kept in special plastic containers because the chemical will corrode almost every other material.
It is best to consider suitable substitutes for a corrosive chemical before using it in your industrial processes. If you have or can get a less hazardous alternative, use it instead.
Storage Of Corrosive Chemicals
Secluded, Secure Storage
The safest storage strategy for corrosive chemicals is to store them in designated areas, away from other substances and materials. Also, the storage space should be away from handling and processing areas. It is a measure that lowers the potential risk of damage and repercussions associated with spillages, leaks, and fires.
If you have limited storage, that forces you to keep the corrosive chemicals with other things. It is best to pick compatible materials (non-reactive). It ensures you reduce the chances of violent reactions that can cause heat, fires, or toxic gases.
Temperature
Storing corrosive chemicals away from heat sources and direct sunlight is a standard recommendation. You also are advised to keep the substances in a cool, aerated room. Moreover, it is best to know the appropriate storage temperatures since this requirement differs from one chemical to the next.
Storage Vessels
All corrosive chemicals must be stored in properly sealed containers and remain sealed if not used. It reduces the chances of spillage or fumes escaping. Use a suitable receptacle when decanting any acid, preferably a corrosion-resistant material. Label the container to warn others of its contents and associated dangers.
Handling Corrosive Chemicals
Corrosive chemicals cause severe injuries when they touch human tissue. They cause burns and destroy tissue and nerves. Hence, carefully handling them in the recommended containers with high-quality equipment including a battery pump is paramount. Furthermore, moving the storage container by hand can be dangerous. Hence, we recommend using carboy caddies, drum cradles, or other secure bottle carriers.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
For starters, it is best to use protective gear when dealing with corrosive chemicals. PPEs (personal protective equipment) like gloves, goggles, boots, coveralls, lab coats, aprons, and protective suits are a requirement in industries dealing with corrosive substances.
Disposal Of Corrosive Chemicals
Some of the bi-products can be corrosive waste, which is hazardous and must be handled with care. Such waste must be put in designated vessels, not any random clean container you find. It might appear clean but might have trace elements that can result in an adverse reaction.
Conversely, you should never empty your corrosive chemicals down the drains or sinks. Check and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions when disposing of the chemicals or opt to outsource a hazardous waste collection and disposal company’s services.