HSE

1. HSE Alert 02/95 Committed to HSE Dangers of Hydrofluoric Acid Background A splash of lethal Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) recently killed the employee of a small Mosman Park laboratory in Western Australia. The victim, aged 37, died an agonising death after he accidentally splashed about 100 ml of a 70% solution of HF on his leg. The victim apparently jumped into a swimming pool in a vain bid to neutralise the virulent chemical. He had the leg amputated but the acid poisoned his blood and he died in Freemantle Hospital. Recommendations Users of HF in PDO operations are asked to review the need for HF in their activities with the view of substituting a less hazardous chemical to do their work. If HF must be used, precautionary measures as outlined in the Toxic Materials Manual (TMM), and the Occupational Health Management Guidelines should be in place to safely handle HF. Learning Points Even small spills of HF can have serious consequences. The acid has to come into contact with only 2% of the body to be fatal. For this reason, precautionary measures to prevent spills of splashes cannot be overstated. Additionally, the neutralising agent, calcium gluconate gel should be available on site. For further information on safe handling of HF, see Guidance Note 23 of the Occupational Health Management Guidelines and consult the Toxic Material Manual. If more information is required, contact MSE/32 ph: 246 77684