How to Safely Store, Handle and Dispose of Corrosive Chemicals
Corrosive chemicals are mostly used in different industries for various applications. They are, however, highly reactive. They can damage or destroy materials, like wood, metal or living tissue. It is possible to find safer alternatives to corrosive chemicals. However, if you cannot find safer alternatives, you should take precautions when storing, transferring to drum barrel with IBC pump, handling and using these corrosive chemicals.
Here are Some of the Corrosive Chemicals
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide is very corrosive. It is mostly used for various industrial applications. For instance, manufacturers use sodium hydroxide to make soap and paper and to make cosmetics. It is suitable for soap making because it helps to break down fats. However, if you inhale or swallow it or it comes into contact with your eyes or skin, it can cause damage.
Hydrofluoric (HF) Acid
HF acid is a strong inorganic acid. It is mostly used in metal cleaning and other industrial processes. This is because it dissolves impurities from metal surfaces. It is also very corrosive. That is why exposure to HF acid can lead to severe injuries. Unfortunately, it can take time to notice these injuries. Why? The injuries take time to become painful or visible. HF acid can corrode through many things. It is, therefore, essential to store hydrofluoric acid in special containers.
Do not rush to select a corrosive chemical. It is much better to consider alternatives to the corrosive chemical before making your final decision. It is advisable to select a less hazardous chemical.
How to Store Corrosive Chemicals
Do not store corrosive chemicals in the same storage spaces. Store them away from handling areas, processing areas, and other materials. Store the chemicals in safe storage areas. It is crucial to protect your storage areas from spillages, leaks and fire damage.
If you do not have different storage spaces for storing your corrosive chemicals, you should store the chemicals alongside compatible materials. Do not store incompatible materials in the same storage space. Storing them together can cause violent reactions, which can form toxic gases.
Temperature
You will need to consider the temperature of the storage space. The different chemical chemicals have different temperature requirements. Therefore, store your corrosive chemicals at the correct temperature.
Keep these chemicals away from direct sunlight and heat sources. And store corrosive chemicals in a cold, well-ventilated room.
Chemical Vessels
Containers of corrosive chemicals must be tightly sealed to prevent spills and also prevent vapours from escaping. If you want to pour the corrosive chemical from one container to another, you should choose a container that is resistant to the corrosive chemical. Label new containers to protect people from these corrosive chemicals.
How to Handle Corrosive Chemicals
Corrosive chemicals are harmful to humans. They can burn or destroy your tissues. It is, therefore, very important to handle corrosive chemicals and containers carefully.
It is dangerous to use your hands to move the containers of corrosive chemicals. It is safe to use safety bottle carries, carboy caddies or drum cradles to safely move corrosive chemicals.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Wear PPE before you handle any corrosive chemical. Here are some of the PPE you can use to handle corrosive chemicals:
- Impervious lab coat, apron, coveralls, protective suit
- Boots
- Goggles
- Gloves
How to Dispose of Corrosive Chemicals
Corrosive waste is toxic. It is, therefore, essential to carefully and safely handle hazardous corrosive waste. Do not put the corrosive waste in empty containers. Why? They can contaminate and damage your containers.
In addition, do not pour corrosive waste down your sink or drain. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to dispose of corrosive waste. Or hire a hazardous waste collection and disposal company to dispose of corrosive chemicals.