HF
Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a clear, colorless acid that is both extremely corrosive
and very toxic. It causes severe burns to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
Pain may not be immediate but begins as hydrogen fluoride penetrates deep through
the tissues then to the bones. Chronic exposure even to low concentrations can cause
irreversible bone damage.
Requirements for using HF
- HF hazard awareness training (contact jlocke@mailbox.sc.edu)
- HF-specific SOP (Principle Investigator and EH&S approval are required.)
- Safety shower and eyewash with clear running water (Check before each procedure.)
- Calcium gluconate gel in the lab first aid kit (Check that it is not expired.)
- HF spill kit, preferably with HF acid eater
- Appropriate PPE (neoprene or 22 mil nitrile gloves, safety goggles, face shield, tyvek
suit, acid resistant booties, others, based on written SOP)
- Fume hood airflow ~100 lfm
- Signage on cabinet storing HF
- Signage on fume hood designated for HF use
- Signage on outside door during use of HF
- Proficiency in methodology
- Proficiency in written emergency response procedure
- Designated "buddy”