Spills of Acids and Bases

Abstract

Due to their hazardous characteristics acids and bases present an intrinsic risk in the event of spillage. To prevent injuries from chemical contamination, HazMat unit personnel use protective suits and proper decontamination procedures. Nitrous acid is especially insidious since it causes severe burns with wounds that take a long time to heal. In addition it produces hydrogen and nitrous oxide gases by redox reactions with metals. Risk assessment for a production site and case studies of incidents are presented.