Department of Earth Sciences: Using Hydrofluoric Acid Safely

Special

Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) is one of the most toxic and potentially dangerous substances used in the University. All users of HF should be fully aware of and have a good understanding of the nature of HF. They should know how best to control HF, avoid accidental exposure and understand how to deal with accidental exposure to HF. All users of HF are strongly advised to attend this course. This course is also useful for First Aiders in Departments where HF is used.

• Users of hydrofluoric acid and first aiders in departments where HF is used
• Further details regarding OHSS’ eligibility criteria are available

• The nature and hazards of HF, including incident case studies
• Risk assessment
• The range of control measures available: managerial, practical, and discussion thereof
• The use of Personal Protective Equipment
• Emergency procedures
• Self help first aid
• Reporting and referral of incidents

Presentations

The course will not attempt to deliver individual procedures for specific applications; these should be the subject of supervised practical training by the user’s Department. However, participants will be encouraged to share good practice and discuss practical implications during the course.

Some First Aiders may need additional training in oxygen administration, which will be organised separately.

College staff are charged £15 per participant, see charging for further information.

One session of two hours

A number of times per year