| Hazard
Identification
Skin:
Both liquid and vapor can cause severe burns, which may not be immediately
painful or visible. HF will penetrate the skin and attack underlying
tissues. Large or multiple burns totaling over 25 square inches
of body surface area may also cause hypocalcemia and other toxic
effects which may be fatal. Prolonged contact with very dilute HF
solutions will cause burns.
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Eyes:
Both liquid and vapor can cause irritation or corneal burns.
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Inhalation:
Mild Exposure: Can irritate nose, throat and respiratory system.
Onset of symptoms may be delayed for several hours.
Severe Exposure: Can cause nose and throat burns, lung inflammation
and pulmonary edema. Can also result in other toxic effects including
hypocalcemia which, if not treated properly, can be fatal.
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Ingestion:
Can cause severe burns to the mouth, throat and stomach and may
result in death if swallowed. Even ingesting small amounts of dilute
HF will likely cause profound and possibly fatal hypocalcemia and
systemic toxicity unless medical treatment is immediately initiated.
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Effects of Varying HF Concentrations
Depending on the concentration of HF used at the time of the accident,
the symptoms of the burn may be immediate or delayed.
- HF concentrations greater than 50%: Immediate burns appear.
There is a rapid destruction of tissue beginning as a whitish
discoloration, usually progressing to blisters, accompanied by
severe pain.
- HF concentrations between 20 and 50%: Symptoms can be delayed
one to eight hours.
- HF concentrations less than 20%: Symptoms may be delayed for
up to 24 hours.
- HF concentrations as low as 2%: If exposure to the acid is
long enough, symptoms can appear.
Exposure to HF can also cause bone and joint changes in humans
(Fluorosis).
Exposure is usually accidental and is often due to inadequate
use of protective measures
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