Hi, The question was asked why mixing acids and bases are hazardous. Please note number 5 below. When an acid and base are mixed you get water and a salt. When water is added to acid (ie pouring a base into an acid) the heat of reaction can cause the water to get quite hot and cause the chemicals to splatter upon you. The idea is you want the acid to disolve in the water and not the other way around. Goggles, bibs, and all other reasonable safety precautions should always be used. Forwarded message:

X-within-URL: http://www.ems.uwplatt.edu/sci/chem/saf/safetyor.htm

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY SAFETY RULES

* 1. Maintain a business-like attitude. Be prepared! Do not attempt unauthorized experiments. * 2. Wear safety goggles (eye protection) at all times when in the laboratory. This is a departmental and state regulation. Do not eat or drink in the lab or bring food or drink into the lab. * 3. Know the location and use of the nearest fire extinguisher, nearest First Aid kit, nearest eye wash station, nearest safety shower, and nearest exit designated for evacuation. Know the location of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and know that you have access to them. Know the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) Hazardous Material Classification Codes. * 4. Report any accident, even minor injuries, to the instructor at once. * 5. When diluting acids, pour acid slowly and carefully into the water with constant stirring. Use Pyrex and Kimax glassware and NEVER add water to acid. Rinse acid or base Penny-Head stoppered bottles under the faucet after each use. * 6. In the event that acid, base, or any corrosive liquid is spilled on your person: a) Flush immediately with running water at the sink. Call for instructor. b) Rinse area with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution. c) Wash area with soap and water, blot dry with clean towel or handkerchief. d) Follow direction of lab supervisor. Check MSDS if you have questions. * 7. In case of an organic chemical spilled on your person, flush with water, wash with soap, rinse with water, rinse with ethyl alcohol, wash with soap, and rinse with water. Pat dry. Wash hands before and after visiting toilet. Check MSDS if you have questions. * 8. Never taste chemicals or solutions. Minimize the inhalation of organic vapors by using the smallest amounts of materials and utilizing the hood as much as possible. Check MSDS if you have questions. * 9. Many organic compounds are either carcinogenic, mutagenic, and/or teratogenic. Generally avoid aromatic amines and nitroso compounds. Review the document on Chemical Exposure in Organic Chemistry. Check the MSDS if you are not adequately aware of the compound's properties. * 10. In case of cuts or punctures, flush with running water, and call for instructor or see stock room attendant on third floor for First Aid. All punctures should be seen by the university nurse or a physician! * 11. Dispose of all wastes properly. Read labels on bottles! Keep bench and floor clean. * 12. Before leaving the laboratory, be sure that the water, steam, heaters, and gas cocks are shut off.

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Document Last Modified: August 26, 1997 Copyright © 1998, University of Wisconsin - Platteville

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