Why are hydrochloric acid vapors dangerous? What to do if you are poisoned by hydrochloric acid vapors? Acid contact with skin or eyes

Hydrochloric acid (hydrochloric acid) - an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride HCl, is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent odor of hydrogen chloride. Technical acid has a yellowish-green color due to impurities of chlorine and iron salts. The maximum concentration of hydrochloric acid is about 36% HCl; such a solution has a density of 1.18 g/cm3. Concentrated acid “smoke” in air, since the released gaseous HCl forms tiny droplets of hydrochloric acid with water vapor.

Hydrochloric acid is not flammable or explosive. It is one of the strongest acids; it dissolves (with the release of hydrogen and the formation of salts - chlorides) all metals in the voltage series up to hydrogen. Chlorides are also formed when hydrochloric acid reacts with metal oxides and hydroxides. It behaves as a reducing agent with strong oxidizing agents.

Salts of hydrochloric acid - chlorides, with the exception of AgCl, Hg2Cl2, are highly soluble in water. Glass, ceramics, porcelain, graphite, and fluoroplastic are resistant to it.

Hydrochloric acid is obtained by dissolving hydrogen chloride in water, which is synthesized either directly from hydrogen and chlorine or obtained by the action of sulfuric acid on sodium chloride.

The produced technical hydrochloric acid has a strength of at least 31% HCl (synthetic) and 27.5% HCl (from NaCI). A commercial acid is called concentrated if it contains 24% or more HCl; if the HCl content is less, then the acid is called dilute.

Hydrochloric acid is used to produce chlorides of various metals, organic intermediates and synthetic dyes, acetic acid, activated carbon, various adhesives, hydrolytic alcohol, and in electroplating. It is used for etching metals, for cleaning various vessels, casing pipes of boreholes from carbonates, oxides and other sediments and contaminants. In metallurgy, ores are treated with acid; in the leather industry, leather is treated with acid before tanning and dyeing. Hydrochloric acid is used in the textile, food industries, medicine, etc.

Hydrochloric acid plays an important role in the digestive process; it is an integral part of gastric juice. Diluted hydrochloric acid is prescribed orally mainly for diseases associated with insufficient acidity of gastric juice.

Hydrochloric acid is transported in glass bottles or rubberized (rubber-coated) metal vessels, as well as in plastic containers.

Hydrochloric acid very dangerous to human health. Causes severe burns upon contact with skin. Contact with eyes is especially dangerous.

If hydrochloric acid gets on the skin, it must be washed off immediately with plenty of water.

Fog and hydrogen chloride vapors formed when concentrated acid interacts with air are very dangerous. They irritate the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. Prolonged work in an HCl atmosphere causes catarrh of the respiratory tract, tooth decay, clouding of the cornea of ​​the eyes, ulceration of the nasal mucosa, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Acute poisoning is accompanied by hoarseness, suffocation, runny nose, and cough.

In the event of a leak or spill, hydrochloric acid can cause significant environmental damage. Firstly, this leads to the release of substance vapors into the atmospheric air in quantities exceeding sanitary and hygienic standards, which can lead to poisoning of all living things, as well as the appearance of acid precipitation, which can lead to changes in the chemical properties of soil and water.

Secondly, it can leak into groundwater, which can result in contamination of inland waters.
Where the water in rivers and lakes has become quite acidic (pH less than 5), fish disappear. When trophic chains are disrupted, the number of species of aquatic animals, algae and bacteria decreases.

In cities, acid precipitation accelerates the destruction of marble and concrete structures, monuments and sculptures. When it comes into contact with metals, hydrochloric acid causes corrosion, and when it reacts with substances such as bleach, manganese dioxide, or potassium permanganate, it forms toxic chlorine gas.

In the event of a spill, wash hydrochloric acid off surfaces with plenty of water or an alkaline solution that neutralizes the acid.

The material was prepared based on information from open sources

Acid. For many people, this word evokes associations with processes such as corrosion, splitting, oxidation and melting. It is difficult to argue with this phenomenon, since a solution of hydrochloric acid, like any other, is used precisely for this purpose. Once hydrochloric acid solution is capable of destroying metals, then what can happen to human skin, eyes and lungs? Unfortunately, the results of poisoning can be disastrous - irritation and serious burns. But it is precisely to prevent such situations that safety precautions exist - in this article we will learn how to properly store hydrochloric acid solution, how it is transported and what to do in case of contact with this substance.

The first issue is storage. Hydrochloric acid solution poured into rubberized tanks or containers, as well as polyethylene barrels and glass bottles - any of the above options is quite acceptable. At the same time, used containers that contain a residual solution of hydrochloric acid can also be used, unless, of course, the results of technical analysis suggest otherwise. It is important to ensure the container is sealed, as hydrochloric acid solution when evaporated, it is extremely dangerous (burn of the lungs and mucous membranes is possible). For these purposes, gaskets made of rubber or polyethylene are used, which applies not only to filled, but also to empty containers. If hydrochloric acid solution Packed and bottled correctly, transportation by any means of transport is allowed.

When working with hydrochloric acid, care must be taken to protect against possible detonation of the composition - this may well happen, since hydrochloric acid solution upon contact with air, it releases hydrogen chloride, which becomes explosive when interacting with certain metals. The main task is to exclude contact of the solution with a number of metals (Al, Zn, Fe, Co, Ni, Pb, etc.). In addition, the so-called “fog” that accompanies a solution of hydrochloric acid during evaporation poses a danger to humans. If the vapor concentration is more than 5 mg/m3, the risk of burns is extremely high.

Clean up spills on the floor hydrochloric acid solution can be done using water and an alkaline solution. In case of contact with skin, the affected area should be rinsed with warm water and wiped dry with a soft cloth. The use of iodine and brilliant green is strictly prohibited. If acid poisoning occurs through the air, it is necessary to eliminate the source and remove the hydrochloric acid solution by ventilation. If the composition gets into your eyes, rinse them with plenty of water. In any of the above cases, you must consult a doctor, since hydrochloric acid solution is a very dangerous substance, poisoning and burns from which can lead to disability. To prevent this from happening, you must follow safety regulations. In this case, the hydrochloric acid solution will not pose any danger to humans and the environment.

Safety precautions when working with hydrochloric acid solution

Despite the fact that the service life of the acid is unlimited, it requires careful and consistent compliance with safety regulations, which include:

• if acid enters the stomach, it must be removed from there as quickly as possible by inducing a gag reflex, then drink water and repeat the procedure again;
• do not allow the acid to come into contact with the skin; if the acid solution gets on the skin, it must be immediately washed off with warm water and blotted with a soft cloth; if wounds appear, an antiseptic or healing composition should be applied;
• when working with acid, you need to wear a mask, otherwise there is a risk of vapor poisoning, the victim should immediately be taken out into the air where there are no vapors, allowed to catch their breath, and, if necessary, perform artificial respiration and call a doctor;
• When working with acid, eyes should be protected with goggles. If the eyes are damaged by an acid solution, they should be washed immediately with water; if there is severe tingling and pain, you should consult a doctor.

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Hydrochloric acid (hydrochloric acid) - an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride HCl, is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent odor of hydrogen chloride. Technical acid has a yellowish-green color due to impurities of chlorine and iron salts. The maximum concentration of hydrochloric acid is about 36% HCl; such a solution has a density of 1.18 g/cm3. Concentrated acid “smoke” in air, since the released gaseous HCl forms tiny droplets of hydrochloric acid with water vapor.

Hydrochloric acid is not flammable or explosive. It is one of the strongest acids; it dissolves (with the release of hydrogen and the formation of salts - chlorides) all metals in the voltage series up to hydrogen. Chlorides are also formed when hydrochloric acid reacts with metal oxides and hydroxides. It behaves as a reducing agent with strong oxidizing agents.

Salts of hydrochloric acid - chlorides, with the exception of AgCl, Hg2Cl2, are highly soluble in water. Glass, ceramics, porcelain, graphite, and fluoroplastic are resistant to it.

Hydrochloric acid is obtained by dissolving hydrogen chloride in water, which is synthesized either directly from hydrogen and chlorine or obtained by the action of sulfuric acid on sodium chloride.

The produced technical hydrochloric acid has a strength of at least 31% HCl (synthetic) and 27.5% HCl (from NaCI). A commercial acid is called concentrated if it contains 24% or more HCl; if the HCl content is less, then the acid is called dilute.

Hydrochloric acid is used to produce chlorides of various metals, organic intermediates and synthetic dyes, acetic acid, activated carbon, various adhesives, hydrolytic alcohol, and in electroplating. It is used for etching metals, for cleaning various vessels, casing pipes of boreholes from carbonates, oxides and other sediments and contaminants. In metallurgy, ores are treated with acid; in the leather industry, leather is treated with acid before tanning and dyeing. Hydrochloric acid is used in the textile, food industries, medicine, etc.

Hydrochloric acid plays an important role in the digestive process; it is an integral part of gastric juice. Diluted hydrochloric acid is prescribed orally mainly for diseases associated with insufficient acidity of gastric juice.

Hydrochloric acid is transported in glass bottles or rubberized (rubber-coated) metal vessels, as well as in plastic containers.

Hydrochloric acid very dangerous to human health. Causes severe burns upon contact with skin. Contact with eyes is especially dangerous.

If hydrochloric acid gets on the skin, it must be washed off immediately with plenty of water.

Fog and hydrogen chloride vapors formed when concentrated acid interacts with air are very dangerous. They irritate the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. Prolonged work in an HCl atmosphere causes catarrh of the respiratory tract, tooth decay, clouding of the cornea of ​​the eyes, ulceration of the nasal mucosa, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Acute poisoning is accompanied by hoarseness, suffocation, runny nose, and cough.

In the event of a leak or spill, hydrochloric acid can cause significant environmental damage. Firstly, this leads to the release of substance vapors into the atmospheric air in quantities exceeding sanitary and hygienic standards, which can lead to poisoning of all living things, as well as the appearance of acid precipitation, which can lead to changes in the chemical properties of soil and water.

Secondly, it can leak into groundwater, which can result in contamination of inland waters.
Where the water in rivers and lakes has become quite acidic (pH less than 5), fish disappear. When trophic chains are disrupted, the number of species of aquatic animals, algae and bacteria decreases.

In cities, acid precipitation accelerates the destruction of marble and concrete structures, monuments and sculptures. When it comes into contact with metals, hydrochloric acid causes corrosion, and when it reacts with substances such as bleach, manganese dioxide, or potassium permanganate, it forms toxic chlorine gas.

In the event of a spill, wash hydrochloric acid off surfaces with plenty of water or an alkaline solution that neutralizes the acid.

The material was prepared based on information from open sources

In cases of leakage or spillage, hydrochloric acid can cause significant environmental damage. Firstly, this leads to the release of substance vapors into the atmospheric air in quantities exceeding sanitary and hygienic standards, which can lead to poisoning of all living organisms, as well as the appearance of acid precipitation, which can lead to changes in the chemical properties of soil and water. Secondly, the acid may seep into groundwater, resulting in contamination of inland waters. Where the water in rivers and lakes has become quite acidic (pH less than 5), fish are guaranteed to disappear. When trophic chains are disrupted, the number of species of aquatic animals, algae and bacteria decreases.

In cities, acid precipitation accelerates the destruction of marble and concrete structures, monuments and sculptures. When it comes into contact with metals, hydrochloric acid causes corrosion, and when it reacts with substances such as bleach, manganese dioxide, or potassium permanganate, it forms toxic chlorine gas.

The probability of poisoning with hydrochloric acid (in its pure form or in the form of a chemical composition, where it is the main component) in a concentration that threatens life and health is quite high for a person. The following situations may cause poisoning:

• A) destruction of a storage tank or vessel for transporting technical hydrochloric acid, resulting in its spill and evaporation;
• B) contamination of soil, plants, drinking water sources with technical hydrochloric acid;
• C) accidental contact with the skin, mucous membranes or inside the body of household chemicals containing hydrochloric acid.

A concentration of 15 mg/m3 of hydrochloric acid affects the mucous membranes, a concentration of 50-75 mg/m3 is difficult to tolerate, a concentration of 75-150 mg/m3 has a detrimental effect on the body and causes irreversible consequences, including death.

The effect of all types of acids (hydrochloric, sulfuric, nitric) on the human body is determined by their ability to take away water from tissues, bind alkalis (changing the alkaline reaction necessary for living protoplasm to an acidic one) and precipitate proteins. The strength and depth of action of acids on tissue depend on the concentration of their solution: acids can cause tissue irritation (increased secretion, hyperemia), inflammation or complete destruction. The introduction of concentrated acids into the body is characterized by damage to organs exposed to the direct action of acids (burns of the walls of the oral cavity, esophagus, stomach with perforation and subsequent formation of scars), changes in the blood due to the neutralization of its alkalis, damage to the nervous system, kidneys, liver, and a decrease in cardiac activity.

Like other acids, hydrochloric acid is extremely dangerous to human health. If it comes into contact with the skin, it causes severe burns, and if it gets into the eyes, it can lead to complete loss of vision. Fog and hydrogen chloride vapors formed when concentrated hydrochloric acid interacts with air are also very dangerous: they irritate the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. Prolonged work in an HCl atmosphere causes catarrh of the respiratory tract, tooth decay, clouding of the cornea of ​​the eyes, ulceration of the nasal mucosa, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Hydrochloric acid is a good solvent that is used in many industries. The chemical is colorless and may appear yellowish. The acid itself and its esters (hydrogen chloride) are poisonous.

Hydrochloric acid itself and its esters are poisonous.

Properties of hydrochloric acid

The toxicity of the substance lies in the fact that the liquid evaporates in air, releasing gas. It enters the human body through mucous membranes and skin. If it comes into contact with the skin, the acid causes a severe chemical burn. Every person's stomach also contains hydrochloric acid. It helps the digestive processes. People who have low acidity are prescribed medications with this substance. Hydrogen chloride solution is also used as a food additive E 507.

Hydrochloric acid and its vapors can accelerate the corrosion of metals. Therefore, it is stored and transported in special vessels.

Chemical damage to the skin

Burns occur as a result of exposure of the skin to high temperatures (thermal), electric fields (electric), acids or alkaline substances (chemical) and electromagnetic radiation (radial). Thermal burns are common in everyday life.

Damage to the skin caused by chemicals is difficult to treat. The degree of harm is determined by the amount and concentration of the acid or alkali, the characteristics of exposure and behavior when in contact with water or air, as well as the period of stay on the skin or mucous membranes. Doctors distinguish the following degrees of severity of a chemical burn:

• I – redness of the affected area and pain;
• II – swelling and blisters with transparent contents appear;
• III – necrosis of the upper layers of skin and blisters with cloudy liquid or blood;
• IV – deep lesion that reaches the muscles and tendons.

Doctors are more likely to encounter severe cases of grades III and IV due to the fact that the chemical composition of the substances is very toxic and acts instantly. Therefore, people should know the symptoms of an acid burn and the basics of emergency care in such situations in order to maintain their health or be able to provide first aid.

If hydrochloric acid comes into contact with the skin, rinse the area with clean water.

First aid for a burn with hydrochloric acid

As a result of exposure to the toxin, a dry, dense, yellowish crust with clear boundaries appears on the skin. After contact is eliminated, the reagent continues to cause harm, so the person needs urgent help. The first thing to do if hydrochloric acid gets on your skin is:

1. Remove clothing and other objects from the burned area.
2. Rinse the area with clean water for 15 minutes or more.
3. If the injury burns, continue to wash off the substance.
4. After this, wash the burn area with a solution of soda or soap and water.
5. Apply a dry sterile bandage.

It is strictly forbidden to wash off hydrochloric acid with oils, alcohol tinctures, and urine. Doctors do not recommend piercing the blisters yourself, touching the wound with your hands, or lubricating it with cream or vegetable oil.

If hydrochloric acid gets into the eyes, a person needs to rinse with running water and then with a soda solution. Signs of injury: severe burning and pain in the eyes. The clinical picture of the disease may also include the appearance of a scab and redness of the mucous membrane. The victim needs to see a doctor who will assess the patient’s condition and prescribe a course of therapy.

You can treat small chemical burns at home

Burn treatment

High-quality first aid increases the effectiveness of therapy and gives the victim hope for a quick recovery. The patient is examined by a surgeon, assesses his condition and the severity of the burn. Then he explains how to treat an injury at home. If large areas of skin are affected, the patient is left under the constant supervision of doctors.

You can treat a small chemical burn at home according to the prescribed course. The doctor advises treating the area with antiseptic agents that do not contain alcohol. It is mandatory to use medications that help restore the normal functioning of the skin.

Clinic of poisoning with hydrochloric acid and its esters

A hydrogen chloride solution enters the human gastrointestinal tract at work when safety rules are violated or intentionally during a suicide attempt. Hydrochloric acid gets on the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat, tongue and causes severe burns and poisoning. The first symptoms of damage to the esophagus and stomach:

• acute pain in the abdomen and chest;
• vomit with blood;
• swelling of the larynx.

In severe cases of poisoning and in the absence of medical care, additional symptoms develop: pulmonary edema, severe pathologies of the kidneys and liver. The pain syndrome can lead to burn shock, which aggravates the victim's condition with possible loss of consciousness.

Symptoms of damage to the esophagus and stomach: acute pain in the abdomen and chest

The victim must be removed from the premises to avoid additional intoxication from toxic fumes. First aid for hydrochloric acid poisoning is to immediately lavage the stomach. The patient is forced to drink about a liter of water and is induced to vomit. If a person exhibits symptoms of traumatic shock, they are given sedatives or painkillers.

Hydrogen chloride solution evaporates quickly in open air. During this process, a toxic haze appears in the air, which harms the human respiratory tract. Symptoms of poisoning by toxic fumes:

• dry cough;
• suffocation;
• burning of mucous membranes;
• tooth damage;
• disruption of the stomach and intestines.

First aid for poisoning with toxic ethers is free access to clean air and rinsing the throat with water or a soda solution.

With prolonged inhalation of poison, the clinical picture may be accompanied by toxic pulmonary edema. Its initial stage is characterized by chest pain and nonproductive cough. If the reagent is removed, all symptoms disappear within an hour (latent period). But at this time the lungs begin to change and lose some functions. Gradually, chest pain and difficulty breathing return, which entail the appearance of wheezing and the onset of the edema process. Completion of lung poisoning is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• bluish or gray tint of the skin and mucous membranes;
• shortness of breath and weak pulse;
• sputum discharge (with blood);
• lack of oxygen in the body and others.

The victim must be immediately taken to the hospital, where a toxicologist will prescribe adequate treatment.

Acid or acid vapor poisoning must be treated in a hospital

Treatment of hydrochloric acid intoxication

Poisoning with liquid hydrochloric acid or its vapor must be treated in a hospital. The toxicologist prescribes symptomatic therapy. The first thing the doctor does is prescribe painkillers to eliminate pain shock.

Treatment includes medications to stop bleeding, maintain the functioning of the stomach and intestines, lungs, cardiovascular system, as well as the liver and kidneys. To prevent the development of the inflammatory process, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. The victim cannot eat for the first couple of days, and then he is prescribed a strict diet until the end of the course of treatment.

Prevention of hydrochloric acid poisoning

Preventive measures help save people's lives and health. They consist of following safety rules when working with poisons, using individual methods of protection (apron, gas mask, gloves, goggles, special suit).

The management of the enterprise must ensure good ventilation of the premises, timely notification of hydrochloric acid leaks and prompt evacuation. Preventive measures also include briefings and training on first aid and actions in emergency situations.

To prevent chronic diseases, employees must undergo routine medical examinations, as well as provide themselves with the necessary amount of vitamins, minerals and microelements. Chemical burns and hydrochloric acid poisoning are serious diseases. The high toxicity of the substance forces immediate action to save a person’s life. People who deal with this poison must follow basic safety rules and be able to provide first aid.