• Facility Support Services
  • Occupational Safety & Risk Management
  • Research Safety & Services
  • Hydrofluoric Acid Safety Program

    What are the HF hazards?

    • HF is a highly hazardous (corrosive) and acutely toxic.
    • HF is unique from other chemicals because of its poisonous effects and the ability to readily absorb through the skin and attack bone.
    • Once absorbed by the skin, HF dissociates rapidly into H+ and F ions. Toxic effects occur when fluoride penetrates through the tissue to bind calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium ions in the body.

     

    Why do we need a separate safety program for Hydrofluoric Acid?

    • Comply with UF’s Chemical Hygiene Plan
    • Raise awareness for HF hazards and provide users with the tools, training, and guidance.
    • Provide a first aid kit and establish an emergency response procedure.
    • Provide support for the maintenance of this safety program.

     

    Hydrofluoric Acid Safety Program Requirement

    • Labs working with Hydrofluoric Acid must be provided HF in person training by EH&S
    • The Principal Investigator should have a complete Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on file in the laboratory.
    • Every individual working with Hydrofluoric Acid must be provided proper safety training by EH&S prior to starting the work with HF.
    • The Principal Investigator must authorize workers to use and provide lab-specific training Hydrofluoric Acid and provide additional training.
    • Every lab must have an HF Emergency Response kit purchased from EH&S.

    SOP Template: Hydrofluoric Acid (HF)

     

    Training Information

    This program requires attending Hydrofluoric Acid in-person training.  We are offering multiple training courses at the Nanoscale Research Facility (NRF 115), Chemical Engineering (CHE 231) and the Environmental Health & Safety Administrative Offices.

     

    EHS901: Hydrofluoric Acid Training

    Date: 03/12/2024

    Time: 10 AM – 11:30 AM

    Location: Environmental Health & Safety Offices, Downstairs Conference Room

    Register for this class.

     

    For Additional Information

    Contact EH&S Chemical/Lab Safety