Handling Acid & Alkali Spills
These spills don’t just happen in laboratories – Many household cleaning products and industrial fluids are also acid and alkali based, which is partly what makes them so effective. This makes it important to take additional precautions to ensure a safe spill clean up. First it’s important to understand pH – pH is the measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of a chemical, as represented on the scale below.
A pH of 7 is neutral, whilst a pH of less than 7 is acidic and a pH of more than 7 is alkali (or basic). Neutralising chemicals makes cleaning, handling and disposal safer. When an acid or alkali chemical spill occurs, we recommend the following steps as a best-practice approach.
- Prevent exposure
Many chemicals are harmful if ingested or handled. Reduce your risk of exposure by wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, respirators and safety goggles. Turn off air conditioning and fans to prevent the spread of dust and vapours. - Contain the spill
Use chemical socks around the spill area to prevent the spread. - Neutralise & Absorb
Use acid or alkali neutralising powder on and around the spill until it is fully absorbed. During the neutralisation process the contents may bubble, change colour and emit fumes. Avoid inhalation and use a pH tester to determine once the spill has a pH of ~7. - Dispose
Sweep or vacuum the powder and dispose of in accordance with your local regulations. Use chemical absorbent pads to clean up any remaining residue. - Decontaminate
Wash spill site with soapy water after initial pickup is complete.
Note: Always consult the chemical Safety Data Sheet. If the spill is too large and cannot be safely contained, evacuate the area and call emergency services by phoning triple zero ‘000’.
Acid and alkali neutralisers are available to purchase from Stratex and are recommended to be used in conjunction with our Chemical Spill Kits.
For further information on chemical spill control, please contact us on 1300 991 180 or email info@stratex.com.au.
