Why Should You Know This?
Chemical burns are not limited to laboratories. Plenty of household cleaning supplies can cause serious burns, and in certain countries acid attacks have become a common means of assault.
Household Chemicals to Be Cautious Around
Drain cleaner
Bleach and ammonia cleaners
Mold and mildew cleaners
Furniture polishes
Laundry Detergents
Toilet cleaners
Oven cleaners
Carpet cleaners
Window cleaners
Insect spray
Weed killer
Aerosol based air fresheners And more
Types of Exposure
Chemicals can affect the body through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Ingestion and inhalation are the most hazardous forms of exposure because they can easily cause organ damage. Skin contact is less hazardous because it is usually the easiest to treat and prevent.
How to Treat Chemical Burns
If you ingest or inhale the chemical, follow the directions on the container for proper procedures.
For solid chemicals, brush it off into a safe area where it will not harm anyone or anything else, then flush the area with water. If it is a metal compound, a mineral oil will be needed to remove the chemical.
If it is skin contact with a liquid chemical run the affected area under a gentle to medium strength stream of cold water* for 20 minutes, or until any pain or discomfort stops. Always use cold water because warm and hot water will cause your pores to open, allowing the chemical to penetrate your skin faster. Do not rub the affected area while flushing.
*Do not flush carbolic or phenol with water, they wont mix with water. Flush the area with rubbing alcohol first, and then flush with water. Use a mild soap and water for sulfuric acid.
If the chemical gets on clothing, remove it immediately and rinse the affected areas.
Remove any jewelry as you rinse the area, unless the jewelry has fused to the skin.
If the chemical gets into your eyes, use an eyewash, eyewash station, or cold tap water.
Once the area has been flushed, apply a non-adherent bandage, or gauze secured with medical tape. If the burning sensation returns, remove the covering and flush with water, or necessary material again. Seek medical help depending on the severity of the burn, and the chemical that caused the burn.
How to Prevent Chemical Burns
The best way to prevent a chemical burn is to wear proper protection. Use rubber or nitrile gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, close toed shoes, an apron, especially lab aprons, are all great ways to protect yourself from chemicals. Always read the safety and hazard information for the chemical ahead of time. The faster you can react to a spill, the chance of a serious burn decreases.
