5.6 Corrosives

Handling corrosive chemicals

Chlorosulfonic acid, fuming sulfuric acid, concentrated sulfuric acid, concentrated nitric acid, concentrated hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, strong alkalis, and bromine etc. should be handled with the greatest care. Remember that perchloric acid is explosive when it comes in contact with organic materials. Store such chemicals below eye level, and do not transport or store them permanently in beakers or flasks.

When transporting bottles containing such corrosive chemicals, use plastic trays or similar to provide secondary containment in case of spills or leaks. Glass vessels containing bromine can become brittle and should be handled with extra caution. When working with corrosive substances, always wear protective goggles. When dealing with large quantities of corrosive substances or when tapping from large bottles or diluting acids or alkalis, full-face protection should be worn.

The alkali metals (primarily lithium, sodium, and potassium) should be stored in paraffin or kerosene. When handling alkali metals, protective gloves should always be worn.

Note! Acids that produce corrosive gases or fumes (such as perchloric acid, aqua regia, and concentrated hydrochloric acid) must only be handled in special, flushable fume hoods. This fume hood is available in building 5, floor -1, room 074A. For access and information, contact the Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Coordinator at:
johan [dot] tejler [at] kc [dot] lu [dot] se.

Corrosive hazards are indicated under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) by the corrosion pictogram.

Pictogram	What shall be marked
	Corrosive material shall be marked with this pictogram.
	Cupboards containing corrosives shall be marked with this pictogram.