How to Handle Bromine

Bromine (Br) is a highly toxic reddish brown liquid substance with a powerful, suffocating odor. The liquid can be fatal when inhaled and causes eye and skin burns and ulcers upon contact. Due to bromine's hazardous properties, only highly trained professionals should handle the substance, using extreme care and reliable laboratory equipment. Always work in a well ventilated area when handling bromine, and seek medical aid immediately in case of accidental ingestion, inhalation or skin or eye contact.

Things You'll Need

• Long-sleeved laboratory coat
• Long laboratory pants
• Laboratory gloves
• Chemical goggles
• Respirator mask

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Instructions

• 1

  Put on a laboratory coat, pants, gloves, goggles and a respirator prior to handling bromine to prevent skin and eye contact and to protect your lungs and airways.

• 2

  Evacuate anyone from the laboratory who isn't authorized to work with bromine or dressed in the proper protective attire.

• 3

  Handle bromine in Department of Transportation-approved, tightly sealed containers made from Kynar, Pyrex, Teflon, Monel, glass or steel lined with lead. If transferring bromine from one container to another, use only equipment made with the materials listed and never touch the bromine itself with your bare or gloved hands.

• 4

  Store the bromine after use in a ventilated, cool area in a tightly sealed container away from heat, flames, combustible materials or reducing agents and away from direct sunlight.

• 5

  Take off all clothing after handling and wash it before wearing it again. Wash yourself thoroughly as soon as possible after handling bromine.