9 key points to ensure your safety ...

How to react if a chemical accident occurs?

Stockage & Systèmes gives you some advice providing practical steps to take into account in case a chemical splash occurs.

Question 1 - What is a chemical burn?

Organic tissue is destroyed when they come in contact with a corrosive chemical.
Body parts most frequently burnt are eyes, skin and the digestive tract.

Question 2 - Why a chemical burn is so serious?

Because corrosive chemicals progressively destroy human tissue.

Question 3 - What to do if a hazardous chemical is splashed onto a person?

Medical profession and the INRS* recommend water spraying as the most appropriate decontamination emergency treatment.

Question 4 - How much time after the chemical splashing should a person decontaminate with water?

Imperatively 10 seconds after the accident takes place.

Question 5 - How much time should be spent in a Safety Station/Unit if a chemical splash occurs?

• At least 10 minutes in an Eye Wash Station
• At least 15 minutes in a Safety Shower

 Question 6 - How long after initial installation must Safety Showers and Eye Wash Stations be checked?

They must be cleaned and inspected at least every 6 months.
It is necessary to check them every week to ensure proper functioning.

Question 7 - How far from high-risk zones must Safety Stations be installed?

They must be located at a maximum distance of 30 meters (that is, no more than 10 seconds walk) for quickly intervention after a hazardous chemical splash.

Question 8 - What is the mandatory flow pressure required on Showers and Eye Wash Stations?

Dynamic pressure must reach 2 or 3 bars minimum.

Question 9 - What protective equipment is essential to work on hazardous chemical splash high-risk zones?

Protection coveralls must be worn each time a corrosive and hazardous chemical is manipulated.
It is also advisable to wear (underneath your protection coveralls) working clothes manufactured with a chemical-resistant material.

* Institut National de La Recherche et la Securite (French Instutite competent in the area of occupational risk)