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Hydrofluoric Acid

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.
  • For more information, please refer to the Hydrofluoric Acid Fact Sheet.

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

EH&S offers multiple training courses at the Nanoscale Research Facility (NRF 115) and the Environmental Health & Safety Administrative Offices. View below for future dates:

  • August 27, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 3, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 8, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 10, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 16, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 18, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 22, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 24, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • September 30, 2025: 9:30 – 10:30 am

Visit myTraining to register for a session. Search course code: EHS901 Hydrofluoric Acid Training

For Additional Information

Contact EH&S Chemical/Lab Safety