Working with HF - Revision history

Martin at 15:38, 15 February 2023

2023-02-15T15:38:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:38, 15 February 2023
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	Watch our video on how to safely handle HF:		Watch our video on how to safely handle HF:

	[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|~~500px~~]]		[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|600px]]

	<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.		<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.

Martin at 15:23, 15 February 2023

2023-02-15T15:23:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:23, 15 February 2023
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	Watch our video on how to safely handle HF:		Watch our video on how to safely handle HF:

	[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|500px]]		[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|500px]]

Martin at 15:22, 15 February 2023

2023-02-15T15:22:48Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:22, 15 February 2023
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	Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.		Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.

			Watch our video on how to safely handle HF:
	[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|500px]]		[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|500px]]

Martin at 15:22, 15 February 2023

2023-02-15T15:22:03Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:22, 15 February 2023
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	Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.		Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.

			[[File:HF_handling.mp4\|500px]]

	<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.		<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.

Martin: /* Using hydrofluoric acid safely */

2021-12-02T11:05:06Z

Using hydrofluoric acid safely

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:05, 2 December 2021
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	* All persons who will be using HF must be made aware of its properties and trained in proper procedures for use and disposal. Only experienced persons familiar with its properties should handle the concentrated acid, and mix solutions		* All persons who will be using HF must be made aware of its properties and trained in proper procedures for use and disposal. Only experienced persons familiar with its properties should handle the concentrated acid, and mix solutions
	* Before beginning any procedure involving HF, make sure the access to the emergency showers (~~just~~ outside the ~~clean room~~) and eyewash is unobstructed. Make sure that:		* Before beginning any procedure involving HF, make sure the access to the emergency showers (inside and outside the cleanroom) and eyewash is unobstructed. Make sure that:
	** a paper copy of these guidelines and HF's MSDS is at hand before starting to work.		** a paper copy of these guidelines and HF's MSDS is at hand before starting to work.
	** calcium gluconate gel is available		** calcium gluconate gel is available

Cbs at 13:43, 28 June 2018

2018-06-28T13:43:34Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:43, 28 June 2018
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	Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.		Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.

	<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.~~-->~~		<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.

	[[File:HF burns.jpg\|800px\|center\|thumb\|HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid]]		[[File:HF burns.jpg\|800px\|center\|thumb\|HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid]]-->

	= Chemical properties =		= Chemical properties =

Cbs at 13:43, 28 June 2018

2018-06-28T13:43:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:43, 28 June 2018
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	Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.		Hydrofluoric acid (HF) has a number of chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, which make handling of this material especially hazardous. Although chemists consider HF to be a “weak” acid, its potential to produce serious health effects greatly exceeds that of “strong” acids commonly used in the laboratory. HF shares the corrosive properties common among mineral acids but is unique in its ability to cause deep tissue damage and hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Anhydrous (containing no water) HF is a clear, colorless, fuming, and corrosive liquid. HF is also available in the gaseous state. All forms, including solutions or vapor, can cause severe burns to tissue which are extremely painful and very slow to heal.

	The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.		<!--The following picture shown an example of an HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid.-->

	[[File:HF burns.jpg\|800px\|center\|thumb\|HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid]]		[[File:HF burns.jpg\|800px\|center\|thumb\|HF burn caused by exposure to 70% hydrofluoric acid]]

Petur: /* In case of accident */

2016-12-06T11:13:53Z

In case of accident

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:13, 6 December 2016
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	The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.		The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.

			{{Emergencies}}

	[[Category:Safety]]		[[Category:Safety]]

Petur at 10:52, 6 December 2016

2016-12-06T10:52:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:52, 6 December 2016
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	* HF waste must be disposed of in the appropriate HF waste container located in the cabinet below the fume hood.		* HF waste must be disposed of in the appropriate HF waste container located in the cabinet below the fume hood.

	~~'''~~In case of ~~emergency'''~~		= In case of accident =
			== Spills ==
	* In case of spills on the gloves they must be replaced and dumped in the sink and flushed with copious amounts of water before being disposed of as chemical waste in a labelled plastic container.		* In case of spills on the gloves they must be replaced and dumped in the sink and flushed with copious amounts of water before being disposed of as chemical waste in a labelled plastic container.
	* If a small quantity (100 ml or less) of a dilute HF solution is spilled, dike the spill with sodium bicarbonate or calcium hydroxide and clean it up by applying a thin coat of powder. Alert the cleanroom staff to dispose of the residue.		* If a small quantity (100 ml or less) of a dilute HF solution is spilled, dike the spill with sodium bicarbonate or calcium hydroxide and clean it up by applying a thin coat of powder. Alert the cleanroom staff to dispose of the residue.
	* If a larger amount is spilled, or the acid is concentrated, contain the spill as best you can, evacuate the area, alert the cleanroom staff and if needed call the emergency services 112. Avoid exposure to the vapors. Do not use silica-containing agents, especially diatomaceous earth (kitty litter) vermiculite or sand, to absorb hydrofluoric acid, because they can react with HF to form toxic silicon tetrafluoride gas.		* If a larger amount is spilled, or the acid is concentrated, contain the spill as best you can, evacuate the area, alert the cleanroom staff and if needed call the emergency services 112. Avoid exposure to the vapors. Do not use silica-containing agents, especially diatomaceous earth (kitty litter) vermiculite or sand, to absorb hydrofluoric acid, because they can react with HF to form toxic silicon tetrafluoride gas.
	* Any exposure to Hydrofluoric Acid must be medically evaluated.

	~~The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.~~		== Exposure ==
			Although HF exposures can result in injury, quick response will minimize the damage. All exposures should be treated immediately even though burns may not be felt for hours. HF first aid (calcium gluconate gel) and spill response kits are located in the clean room and users are obliged to familiarize themselves with the location and proper use of them. Affected personnel must receive medical attention for all exposures, i.e. any exposure to HF must be medically evaluated. Take a copy of these procedures and the MSDS with you to the emergency room.
	= ~~HF exposures~~ =		* '''Skin Contact''' – Immediately wash all affected areas with water. Be sure to remove any clothing or jewellery that could trap or retain HF (remove goggles last). Flush skin for fifteen minutes or until medical attention is available. Get medical attention. Apply calcium gluconate gel to the affected area (use rubber gloves) every fifteen minutes and repeat flush in between.
	Although HF exposures can result in injury, quick response will minimize the damage. All exposures should be treated immediately even though burns may not be felt for hours. HF first aid (calcium gluconate gel) and spill response kits are located in the clean room and users are obliged to familiarize
	themselves with the location and proper use of them. Affected personnel must receive medical attention for all exposures. ~~Maintain~~ a copy of these procedures and the MSDS ~~to take~~ to the emergency room.

	* '''Skin Contact''' – Immediately wash all affected areas with water. Be sure to remove any clothing or ~~jewelry~~ that could trap or retain HF (remove goggles last). Flush skin for fifteen minutes or until medical attention is available. Get medical attention. Apply calcium gluconate gel to the affected area (use rubber gloves) every fifteen minutes and repeat flush in between.
	* '''Eye Contact''' – Immediately flush eyes for at least fifteen minutes with water while holding eyelids open. Get medical attention. Flushing can be limited to five minutes if medical personnel are immediately available to administer sterile calcium gluconate (1%) solution (via continuous drip into eyes).		* '''Eye Contact''' – Immediately flush eyes for at least fifteen minutes with water while holding eyelids open. Get medical attention. Flushing can be limited to five minutes if medical personnel are immediately available to administer sterile calcium gluconate (1%) solution (via continuous drip into eyes).
	* '''Inhalation''' – Move to fresh air as soon as possible. Get medical attention. Medical personnel can administer pure oxygen and calcium gluconate (via nebulizer) to patient. Laboratory personnel should only attempt to clean up small HF spills (pool less than 10x10 cm) that do not involve personnel contamination and that are contained and under control. Be sure that good ventilation is available and that personal protective equipment is worn before attempting to clean up a HF spill.		* '''Inhalation''' – Move to fresh air as soon as possible. Get medical attention. Medical personnel can administer pure oxygen and calcium gluconate (via nebulizer) to patient.

			The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.


	[[Category:Safety]]		[[Category:Safety]]

Petur: /* Work practices */

2016-12-06T10:40:55Z

Work practices

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:40, 6 December 2016
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	'''If you are exposed to hydrofluoric acid, seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not feel pain.'''		'''If you are exposed to hydrofluoric acid, seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not feel pain.'''

	= ~~Work practices~~ =		= Using hydrofluoric acid safely =

	HF must '''only''' be used in the designated HF fume hood. Never use HF outside of this fume hood.		* All persons who will be using HF must be made aware of its properties and trained in proper procedures for use and disposal. Only experienced persons familiar with its properties should handle the concentrated acid, and mix solutions
			* Before beginning any procedure involving HF, make sure the access to the emergency showers (just outside the clean room) and eyewash is unobstructed. Make sure that:
			** a paper copy of these guidelines and HF's MSDS is at hand before starting to work.
			** calcium gluconate gel is available
			** you know where the HF spill kit is located, and check whether its present
			* When working with > 1% HF solutions, you must wear [[General_rules_for_working_in_the_cleanroom#Personal_protective_equipment\|personal protective equipment]]. Always wear two pairs of gloves (double gloves), a lab coat, rubber apron, face shield, disposable arm/sleeve covers and chemical safety goggles when working with any HF solution. Always check gloves for leaks prior to use. The purpose for PPE is to shield the individual in the event of a release of vapor, a spill or other incident. PPE is '''not''' a substitute for safe work practices.
			* HF must '''only''' be used in the designated HF fume hood. Never use HF outside of this fume hood.
			* All lab personnel, not just those who will be using HF, should be informed of the dangers of the chemical and the emergency procedures necessary in case of an accident. A sign must be posted to alert people that work with HF is in progress. The designated HF fume hood safety zone marking on the floor ensures a safe comfort operating zone for the user. Other cleanroom users must stay outside this zone when HF is used.
			* Never use HF when working alone or after hours. Hydrofluoric Acid may be used when working alone during normal working hours provided knowledgeable laboratory personnel have been alerted and at least one is in the general vicinity (buddy system).
			* HF waste must be disposed of in the appropriate HF waste container located in the cabinet below the fume hood.

	In ~~order to warn and protect others from the hazard~~ of HF, a warning sign indicating the use of HF must be posted on the fume hood. The designated HF fume hood safety zone marking on the floor ensures a safe comfort operating zone for the user. Other cleanroom users must stay outside this zone when HF is used.		'''In case of emergency'''

	When working with HF, you must wear [[General_rules_for_working_in_the_cleanroom#Personal_protective_equipment\|personal protective equipment]]. Always wear two pairs of gloves (double gloves), a lab coat, rubber apron, face shield, disposable arm/sleeve covers and chemical safety goggles when working with any HF solution. Always check gloves for leaks prior to use. In case of spills on the gloves they must be replaced and dumped in the sink and flushed with copious amounts of water before being disposed as chemical waste in a labelled plastic container. ~~The purpose for PPE~~ is ~~to shield~~ the ~~individual in~~ the ~~event~~ of a ~~release of vapor~~, a spill ~~or other incident~~. ~~PPE is '''~~not~~''' a substitute for safe work practices~~.		* In case of spills on the gloves they must be replaced and dumped in the sink and flushed with copious amounts of water before being disposed of as chemical waste in a labelled plastic container.
			* If a small quantity (100 ml or less) of a dilute HF solution is spilled, dike the spill with sodium bicarbonate or calcium hydroxide and clean it up by applying a thin coat of powder. Alert the cleanroom staff to dispose of the residue.
	~~The use of HF requires a buddy~~ to be ~~present!~~		* If a larger amount is spilled, or the acid is concentrated, contain the spill as best you can, evacuate the area, alert the cleanroom staff and if needed call the emergency services 112. Avoid exposure to the vapors. Do not use silica-containing agents, especially diatomaceous earth (kitty litter) vermiculite or sand, to absorb hydrofluoric acid, because they can react with HF to form toxic silicon tetrafluoride gas.
			* Any exposure to Hydrofluoric Acid must be medically evaluated.
	~~Ensure that calcium gluconate gel is available before using HF!~~

	The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.		The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Threshold_limit_value threshold limit value] (TLV) for HF is 2 PPM.