Sulfuric acid can cause severe and permanent damage with even minor exposure. Handling it requires extensive training and professional-grade safety equipment.
- Corrosive: It causes severe burns on contact with skin and can lead to permanent blindness if it enters the eyes.
- Reactive: It reacts violently with water, generating intense heat that can cause chemical and thermal burns simultaneously. Never add water to concentrated acid. Always add the acid slowly to water while stirring to dilute it safely.
- Inhalation hazard: The vapors or mists are extremely irritating and toxic to the respiratory tract. Long-term exposure can damage the lungs and teeth.
- Carcinogen: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies occupational exposure to strong inorganic-acid mists containing sulfuric acid as carcinogenic.
- Protective equipment: When handling, use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including an acid suit, chemical-resistant gloves, boots, and chemical safety goggles with a face shield.
