Hydrochloric acid and chlorine are essential chemicals in many clinical and laboratory applications, from pH regulation and glassware cleaning to disinfection and water testing. Safe use of hydrochloric acid and chlorine requires strict adherence to lab safety guidelines to prevent harm and ensure compliance with UK COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations.
How to Use Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Safely
The safe use of hydrochloric acid in laboratories begins with understanding its primary applications. HCl is commonly used for pH adjustment in experiments and sample preparation, cleaning and descaling laboratory glassware, and supporting chemical synthesis and reactions.
Following lab safety guidelines is essential when handling hydrochloric acid. Appropriate PPE, including acid-resistant gloves, chemical splash goggles and an acid-resistant lab coat, should be worn at all times. Work should be carried out in a fume hood or with local exhaust ventilation to minimise exposure to harmful vapours. Hydrochloric acid must be stored in corrosion-resistant, clearly labelled containers in a well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances such as bleach, oxidisers, and bases.
In the event of a spill, the response depends on the scale. Small spills can be neutralised with sodium bicarbonate before cleaning with water. For larger incidents, evacuate the area immediately and follow your facility’s hazardous spill protocol to ensure safe containment and cleanup.
How to Use Chlorine Safely
The safe use of chlorine is critical in maintaining laboratory safety standards. In clinical and laboratory settings, chlorine is widely used for disinfecting surfaces, instruments, and workspaces, conducting water testing and treatment, and bleaching during sample preparation.
To comply with lab safety guidelines, staff should always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. When working with gaseous chlorine, respiratory protection may be required if ventilation is insufficient.
Tasks should be carried out in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to minimise inhalation risks. Care should be taken during preparation: chlorine solutions must be added to water rather than the reverse, reducing the risk of splashes or dangerous chlorine gas release.
Spill management is another important aspect of chlorine safety. Small spills should be diluted with plenty of water, while larger spills may require neutralisation with sodium thiosulfate and disposal according to your facility’s hazardous material protocols.
General Laboratory Safety Guidelines
- Conduct a COSHH risk assessment before handling hazardous chemicals for the safe use of hydrochloric acid and chlorine, as well as other chemicals.
- Ensure all staff are trained in chemical handling, emergency response, and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) usage.
- Store chemicals in their original, labelled containers with secondary containment where possible.
- Dispose of chemical waste through licensed disposal services or according to facility protocols.
- Maintain accessible eyewash stations and emergency showers in work areas.
Expert Medicals supplies premium-quality, lab-grade HCl and chlorine with full safety documentation and delivery across the UK.