Sodium Hydroxide Safety Training

Sodium hydroxide, represented by the chemical formula NaOH, is a corrosive chemical that must be handled with care. Anyone working with this chemical should be trained on how to safely use, store and dispose of it.

Uses

• Also known as caustic soda and lye, sodium hydroxide is a white, solid substance with no distinctive odor that is used to make soaps, cellophane, textiles and paper. It is also used for etching.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Employees working with the chemical should be provided with training on when and how they should wear protective gear. Workers should avoid any skin contact with the chemical. Recommended protective equipment for handling sodium hydroxide includes goggles, face shields and neoprene gloves.

Dangers

• Those who work with sodium hydroxide should have fire safety training concerning the chemical. Sodium hydroxide itself does not burn but will produce poisonous gases when exposed to fire. During a fire, containers of sodium hydroxide should be kept cool with water, but water should not come into contact with the chemical as it can generate enough heat to ignite other flammable substances.