Hydrochloric acid Health Risks: Vapor, Mist, And Fume Inhalation
Hydrochloric acid is a highly corrosive and dangerous chemical. If inhaled, it can cause nose and throat burning, difficulty breathing, and coughing. In severe cases, it can lead to lung damage and death.
When working with hydrochloric acid, it is essential to take precautions to avoid inhalation of the chemical. One way is to use fume extraction equipment that captures the fumes before they have a chance to be inhaled. According to EPA, When using hydrochloric acid indoors, always use local exhaust ventilation to keep fumes and vapors from accumulating.
Another way to protect yourself is to wear a respirator designed for chemicals. This will create a barrier between your lungs and the hydrochloric acid fumes.
Read more: Importance and Benefits of Fume Extraction Systems.
Fume extractors are one of the most effective ways to protect workers from the health risks of hydrochloric acid fumes. If you work with hydrochloric acid, take proper precautions to avoid exposure and protect your health.
Read on to understand the health risks of hydrochloric acid inhalation and how to protect yourself.
What Are the Health Risks Associated With Inhaling Hydrochloric Acid?
Hydrochloric or muriatic acid is a corrosive, strong mineral acid with many industrial uses. Some of the symptoms of hydrochloric acid poisoning include:
1) Coughing
Coughing is a common symptom of hydrochloric acid poisoning. The corrosive nature of the acid can damage the throat and lungs, causing irritation and inflammation.
You may experience a dry cough or productive cough with mucus or blood. The acid goes to work immediately, so you may notice the cough getting worse as time goes on.
2) Wheezing
Wheezing happens when the airways tighten, and high-pitched whistling sounds are made when you breathe. This is a common asthma symptom but can also be caused by exposure to irritants like hydrochloric acid vapor. You may experience wheezing immediately after exposure, or it may take a few hours for symptoms to develop.
3) Skin Contact With Hydrochloric Acid Can Result in Severe Burns
When your skin is exposed to hydrochloric acid, it will immediately begin to burn. The pain will be intense, and the burning will continue until the acid is neutralized or removed. In severe cases, skin contact with hydrochloric acid can result in third-degree burns that destroy all layers of your skin.
The acid contains harmful chemicals that can enter your bloodstream through your burned skin and cause serious health problems like kidney damage, liver damage, and respiratory problems.
If you come into contact with hydrochloric acid, it is essential to neutralize the acid and remove it from your skin as quickly as possible. You can do this by rinsing the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes. If the burning is severe, you should seek medical attention immediately.
4) Stomach and Intestinal Discomfort
Hydrochloric acid comes into contact with your stomach lining and can cause irritation and inflammation. This can lead to a burning sensation in your stomach, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, hydrochloric acid can erode the lining of your stomach and intestines, leading to ulcers.
How Do Fume Extractors Help With HCL Fume Inhalation?
When working with hydrochloric acid, fume extractors are an absolute necessity. Not only do they help to keep the work area clear of harmful fumes, but they also help to protect workers from inhaling them. By constantly pulling the fumes away from the worker’s breathing zone, fume extractors significantly reduce the risk of exposure.
For the best laser fume extraction systems, Call IP Systems. Our extraction systems are designed to remove hydrochloric acid fumes, vapors, and mists before they can cause health risks. It works by drawing the fumes away from the source and into a filtration system where they are neutralized.
