Toxic, Irritative, and Corrosive Gases and Liquids

Potential Hazard
  • Possible employee exposure to toxic, irritative, and corrosive gases and liquids.
Possible Solutions
  • Identify chemical hazards and perform appropriate exposure evaluations.
    • Perform exposure measurements for the chemicals used.
    • 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-1 contains permissible exposure limits for various chemicals.
  • Address all dermal exposures.
  • Provide appropriate ventilation to reduce concentration levels in the air.
  • Provide PPE as appropriate to prevent eye and skin contact. [29 CFR 1910 Subpart I]
  • Use respiratory protection when necessary to further reduce exposure and protect employees. [29 CFR 1910.134]
  • Design and use specialized processing, material handling, and storage equipment to properly contain corrosives. Consider both normal use and emergency scenarios.
  • Install emergency facilities to provide immediate treatment in the event of an accidental exposure to corrosive materials. According to, provide suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body for immediate emergency use whenever the eyes or body may be exposed to corrosive materials. [29 CFR 1910.151]
  • Use gas monitoring systems with automatic shut-offs and alarm systems, as appropriate.
  • Design and use specialized processing, material handling, and storage equipment for gases. Consider both normal use and emergency scenarios.
  • Reduce gas cylinder inventories and quantity of gas per cylinder, when possible.
Additional Information
  • Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123, (1981, January). Provides a table of contents of guidelines for many hazardous chemicals. The files provide technical chemical information, including chemical and physical properties, health effects, exposure limits, and recommendations for medical monitoring, personal protective equipment (PPE), and control procedures.

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