Handle Acids and Alkalis safely in a Metallurgical Plant

Emergency procedures: spillage and burn injuries

The specified actions to be taken in the event of an emergency situation related to a chemical:

Neutralising and cleaning up of spillages

All spillages and leaks must be reported immediately.
Wear and use the prescribed personal protective clothing and safety equipment.
Avoid inhalation of fumes and vapours.
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
The source of the spillage/leaks must be stopped (i.e. stop pump or close valve).
Avoid contact with incompatible materials such as metals and alkaline.
The contaminated area should be isolated immediately and barricades displayed.
Handle with great caution and avoid further spillages.
Large spills: Contain/solidify with sand and dispose as approved by authorities.
Small spills: The prescribed neutralizing agent should be used to neutralise the spillage on the surface of the contaminated area.
The contaminated surface areas should be flushed with copious amounts of water spray.
Acid spills and drained acid should not come into contact with organic materials, sulphate wastage, and Cyanide, because of the danger of evolving extremely hazardous gases.
Prevent run-off into drains, because of the danger of evolving explosive gases.
Wash hands before eating, drinking and using toilet facilities.
Don’t wear contaminated clothing.