Health Risks and First Aid Procedures with Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is one of the most commonly used organic solvents. It is abundantly used by several industries for an extensive range of applications, like the synthesis of dyes and pharmaceuticals, clean wash agent, electroplating and producing acetate monomer. Apart from this, the food grade acetic acid is also used for several applications by the food industry.

To help ensure complete safety when working with acetic acid, we have listed some of the most common health risks associated with this acid along with the first aid procedures that should be followed in case of exposure.
 
Health Risks of Acetic Acid

Acetic acid can be very hazardous if not used carefully. It is highly corrosive to eyes and skin and thus, should be handled very carefully. The acid can also damage the internal organs of it is ingested, or its vapors are inhaled. When working with acetic acid, it is highly recommended that one should always use personal protection equipment, like a synthetic apron, gloves, and splash goggles.

First Aid Procedures for Acetic Acid

As the acid is very hazardous for health, it is very important to seek immediate medical help to prevent any kind of severe health effects in case of exposure. Some of the common first-aid procedures that should be followed after exposure include-

• Eye Contact- Instantly remove the contact lenses if present. Flush your eyes with a lot of water for at least 15 minutes. Immediately seek professional medical help.

• Skin Contact- Quickly remove the contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. You can also use an emollient on the affected area. If the contact is serious, wash the area with disinfectant soap. If you are using food grade acetic acid, the acid content may be quite less and you may not have to worry but if it is industrial grade, ensure you take prompt action.

• Inhalation- If vapors of acetic acid are inhaled, move to an open area for fresh air. Use artificial respiration if breathing is absent and administer oxygen if there is difficulty in breathing. Immediately seek medical attention.

• Ingestion- Avoid inducing vomit if the acid is ingested. Loosen the tight clothing if any. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation should not be administered even if the person is unconscious. If there are any abnormal symptoms, immediately seek medical attention. 

Just like every other chemical used for industrial applications, it is very important to know the health risks and first aid procedures of acetic acid to establish a safer working environment. Make sure that every person working with this acid is well aware of the information mentioned above so as to ensure that immediate help is provided to the victim in the case of exposure. Make sure the one handling the chemical also made aware of the MSDS to ensure proper and safe handling.