What are the chemical hazards of hydrochloric acid?

Hydrochloric acid sounds like a scary substance and, in fact, it can be. However, you may be surprised to learn that hydrochloric acid is a common liquid used in several industries around the world. Approximately 20 million tons of hydrochloric acid are produced globally each year, and you can even find it in your own home! These hydrochloric acid safety tips can help you handle this toxic substance safely and appropriately, whether you encounter it at home or in the workplace.

Hydrochloric Acid and Uses & Attributes

Hydrochloric acid is a colorless to light yellow water-soluble liquid with a pungent, irritating odor. Produced as early as the 16th century, hydrochloric acid was historically known as “spirits of salt” and is sometimes called muriatic acid. It is used for a variety of purposes and is available at concentrations from 10 to 34 percent depending on its application. Hydrochloric acid is used for:

• Steel pickling
• Producing organic compounds (for PVC, activated carbon, ascorbic acid, and pharmaceuticals)
• Producing water treatment chemicals
• Regulating water pH
• Leather processing
• Salt purification
• Household cleaners
• Building construction
• Oil well acidizing
• Producing gelatin products

Safety & Health Hazards Associated with Hydrochloric Acid

Hydrochloric acid is a hazardous liquid which must be used with care. The acid itself is corrosive, and concentrated forms release acidic mists that are also dangerous. If the acid or mist come into contact with the skin, eyes, or internal organs, the damage can be irreversible or even fatal in severe cases. The use of personal protective equipment is essential.

How to Handle Hydrochloric Acid Safely

Safety is of utmost importance when handling dangerous chemicals like hydrochloric acid. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates hydrochloric acid as a toxic substance, and it should be treated as such. It is recommended that you wear the following protective equipment when using hydrochloric acid of any concentration:

• Vapor respirator
• Rubber gloves
• Boots
• Full suit
• Face shield

If using hydrochloric acid at your workplace, it is highly recommended you have access to an eye-flush station in case of accidental exposure. You should also review all Hydrochloric Acid MSDS information before making contact.

If using hydrochloric acid household cleaners in your home, follow the label directions and safety instructions closely. (It is usually recommended that you first dilute the cleaner to reduce its concentration.) It is still important to wear protective clothing when using diluted acid, to ensure that it doesn’t come into contact with your skin, eyes, or mouth.

Proper Care for Hydrochloric Acid Exposure

Depending on the concentration of the hydrochloric acid you are working with, accidental exposure can occur as skin contact, eye contact, ingestion or inhalation of acidic vapors. Each of these types of exposure can pose serious hazards to your health and should be managed immediately.

Skin Contact – If hydrochloric acid comes into contact with your skin, flush immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, and remove any contaminated clothing. In case of serious skin contact, use water, a disinfectant soap, and anti-bacterial cream. Seek immediate medical attention.

Eye Contact – If hydrochloric acid or acidic mists get into your eyes, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek immediate medical attention.

Ingestion – If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.

Inhalation – If you inhale hydrochloric acid vapors or mists, seek fresh air and medical attention immediately.

Hydrochloric Acid Storage and Disposal

Hydrochloric acid should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from sources of moisture. Keep away from incompatible materials such as oxidizing agents, organic materials, metals and alkalis. Hydrochloric acid has the ability to corrode metallic surfaces. Keep container tightly closed and store in a safe place.

Learn more about Hydrochloric Safety from the MSDS Experts

Whether you encounter hydrochloric acid in diluted household cleaners at home or in concentrated forms at your workplace, safety is extremely important when handling this toxic, corrosive liquid. For more information about hydrochloric acid uses, safety, or disposal, search our database of MSDS information.

CAS No. 7647-01-0

Hydrogen chloride (HCl) is a colorless to slightly yellow gas with a pungent odor. Hydrogen chloride can irritate the skin, nose, eyes, throat, and larynx. Exposure to liquid hydrogen chloride may cause frostbite. Workers may be harmed from exposure to hydrogen chloride. The level of harm depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.

Hydrogen cyanide may be used in the workplace for fumigation, electroplating, mining, chemical synthesis, and the production of synthetic fibers, plastics, dyes, and pesticides. Some examples of workers at risk of being exposed to hydrogen cyanide include the following:

• Workers who  fumigate ships and buildings
• Agricultural workers who fumigate outdoor pests in areas such as fruit orchards
• Factory workers in industries that manufacture acrylic fibers, synthetic rubber, and plastics
• Steel and iron workers who work in plants that harden iron and steel

NIOSH recommends that employers use the Hierarchy of Controls to prevent injuries. If you work in an industry that uses hydrogen chloride, please read chemical labels and the accompanying Safety Data Sheets for hazard information. Visit NIOSH’s page on Managing Chemical Safety in the Workplace to learn more about controlling chemical workplace exposures.

The following resources provide information about occupational exposure to hydrogen chloride. Useful search terms for hydrogen chloride include “anhydrous hydrogen chloride” “aqueous hydrogen chloride,” and “hydrochloric acid.”

NIOSH Chemical Resources