Some common concentrated acids:
(1) hydrochloric acid (HCl)
(2) sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
(3) nitric acid (HNO3)
(4) chromic acid
Hazards associated with concentrated acid:
(1) direct chemical burns to eyes, skin, and GI tract,
(2) inhalation of fumes with chemical burn to the respiratory tract
(3) heat and splattering if mixed with water
(4) corrosion, especially of metals
(5) toxic gas generation if reacts with certain chemicals (sulfates, cyanates, pyridine, carbon tetrachloride, etc)
(6) combustion if reacts with certain chemicals (nitric acid with organic chemicals, etc.)
Initial assessment for cleanup:
(1) identification of type and amount of acid spilled
(2) identification of potential reactants
(3) environmental assessment (ventilation, etc)
Requirements for acid cleanup:
(1) evacuate area
(2) establish perimeter control
(3) provide optimum ventilation
(4) use a respirator if toxic fumes present or if area poorly ventilation
(5) don acid resistant gloves, gown and goggles
(6) neutralize the acid to neutral pH (pH 7.0)using an agent that minimizes heat generation and fumes (base, pH indicator)
(7) use a chemical absorbent material to absorb the fluid
(8) place absorbent material in hazardous waste container
(9) soap and water to wash down area afterwards
