Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)

Introduction

Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH), also known as caustic soda, is a strong alkaline chemical commonly used in chemical manufacturing, water treatment, and cleaning. It is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes.

Hazard Summary

• Corrosive to all body tissues; causes severe burns.
• Reacts exothermically with water and acids.
• Contact with metals like aluminum can release hydrogen gas.
• Can cause blindness if splashed into eyes.
• Vapors can cause respiratory irritation.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Mandatory PPE for handling NaOH:

• Chemical splash goggles and face shield
• Alkali-resistant gloves (neoprene/nitrile)
• Chemical-resistant apron or full-body suit
• Rubber boots
• Respirator in case of mist or vapor formation

Storage & Handling Guidelines

Storage

• Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area in HDPE containers.
• Keep away from acids and water sources.
• Use secondary containment trays.

Handling

• Only trained personnel should handle.
• Always add NaOH to water when diluting, not the reverse.
• Do not use aluminum containers or tools.
• Handle with care to avoid splashing.
• Ensure nearby access to emergency showers and eye wash stations.

Spill Management

During Transportation

• Stop vehicle and isolate area.
• Don full PPE before assessing.
• Use dry sand or inert absorbent to contain spill.
• Neutralize with weak acid (vinegar or citric acid) if safe.
• Collect neutralized residue into HDPE containers.

On Factory Floor

• Evacuate non-essential staff.
• Use signage to secure area.
• Wear full PPE.
• Absorb with sand or soda ash.
• Neutralize, if required, and collect in labeled containers.
• Rinse area with large volume of water.

First Aid Procedure

Skin Contact

• Rinse with water for at least 15–20 minutes.
• Remove contaminated clothing.
• Seek medical evaluation.

Eye Contact

• Rinse eyes for at least 15 minutes using an eye wash station.
• Lift eyelids to ensure full irrigation.
• Seek urgent medical care.

Inhalation

• Move person to fresh air.
• Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
• Seek immediate medical help.

Ingestion

• Do NOT induce vomiting.
• Rinse mouth, give water or milk if conscious.
• Immediate hospitalization required.

Emergency Equipment Checklist

• Eye wash stations and safety showers
• First aid kit with burn gel
• Clean inert absorbent (vermiculite/sand)
• Ventilated HDPE spill drums
• PPE kits near peroxide handling zone
• “NO ORGANICS / FLAMMABLES” signage
• Emergency oxygen supply and stretcher

Waste Disposal

• Do not mix with other waste chemicals.
• Collect in vented HDPE drums.
• Label as “Hydrogen Peroxide Waste – Hazardous”.
• Dispose via licensed hazardous waste handler as per rules.