1.      Process

Use of oxalic acid in a laboratory environment.

2.      Physical Hazards

q    Colorless, odorless powder or granular solid.

q    Incompatibilities and reactivities: chlorites, silver compounds, strong alkalis, and strong oxidizers.

3.      Health Hazards

q          Effects of overexposure may include:

·          Irritation of eyes, skin, and mucous membrane

·          Eye burns

·          Localized pain

·          Cyanosis

·          Shock, collapse

·          Convulsions

·          Kidney damage

4.      Personal Protective Equipment

q       EYE PROTECTION

·         Safety glasses, goggles or face shields shall be worn during operations in which oxalic acid might contact the eyes (e.g., through vapors or splashes of solution). 

·         Ordinary (street) prescription glasses do not provide adequate protection.  Adequate safety glasses must meet the requirements of the Practice for Occupational Education Eye and Face Protection (ANSI Z87.1-1989) and must be equipped with side shields. 

·         Fisherbrand® Chemical Splash Goggles, catalog # 19-041-739 are recommended.

·          Contact lenses shall not be worn if the potential exists for Oxalic Acid exposure.

q       HAND PROTECTION

·         Use of butyl rubber gloves are recommended for use when handling oxalic acid which are available through Lab Safety Supply catalogue # 2BD-14998.  Check catalogue for size and finish. 

q       LAB COATS, ETC.

·         Lab coats, close toed shoes and long sleeved clothing shall be worn when handling oxalic acid. Protective clothing shall be worn to prevent any possibility of skin contact with oxalic acid.

q       SAFETY SHOWER/EYEWASH

·         Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to oxalic acid, suitable facilities for quick drench or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use. 

·         Bottle type eyewash stations are not acceptable.

5.      Designated Area for Use and Containment Devices

q       All oxalic acid work shall be done in the laboratory fume hood.

q       The fume hood’s sash must be in the position where a face velocity of 100 feet per minute is achieved.  

6.      Special Handling Procedures and Storage Requirements

q       Keep containers tightly closed.

q       Store in a cool dry place.

q       Spill-X-A which is available through Lab Safety Supply, catalogue # 2BD-14626 must be available for use in case of liquid spill less than 300 cc.

7.      Waste Disposal

Excess oxalic acid and all waste material containing oxalic acid must be placed in an unbreakable secondary container labeled with the following "HAZAROUS WASTE OXALIC ACID WASTE". Full containers of oxalic acid waste must be disposed of according to WFUHS EH&S Hazardous Waste Program.

8.      Decontamination of Equipment and Area

Discard contaminated clothing and shoes through the WFUHS EH&S Chemical Waste Program.

9.      Spill and Accident Procedures

In the event of a liquid spill greater than 300 cc, immediately vacate and secure the area.  Contact WFUBMC Security at 716-9111.