Nitric Acid (HNO₃)

Introduction

Nitric Acid (HNO₃) is a highly corrosive and reactive mineral acid used in nitration processes, fertilizer production, and specialty chemical manufacturing. It is a powerful oxidizer and requires extreme caution during storage, handling, and transfer.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Mandatory PPE for handling Nitric Acid:

• Chemical splash goggles + Face shield
• Acid-resistant gloves (neoprene/PVC)
• Full chemical-resistant suit or apron
• Acid-resistant boots
• Respiratory protection in case of fumes (cartridge or supplied-air)

Storage & Handling Guidelines

Storage

• Store in tightly sealed acid-resistant HDPE containers.
• Keep in a well-ventilated, dry, and cool area.
• Separate from organics, reducing agents, metals, and combustibles.
• Use secondary containment systems.

Handling

• Only trained personnel allowed.
• Avoid exposure to air; keep container closed.
• Transfer using acid-compatible pumps and tubing.
• Never return unused acid to the original container.
• Do not mix with other acids or chemicals unless specified.

Spill Management

During Transportation

• Pull vehicle to safety and isolate area.
• Use full PPE and approach cautiously.
• Avoid contact with combustible materials.
• Absorb spill using lime or soda ash; avoid organic absorbents.
• Collect neutralized slurry in HDPE containers.

On Factory Floor

• Evacuate area; ventilate space.
• Display “Chemical Spill – Authorized Personnel Only” signs.
• Don full PPE before entering.
• Neutralize with soda ash or calcium carbonate.
• Scoop residue into acid-resistant containers.
• Wash area thoroughly with water after neutralization.

First Aid Procedure

Skin Contact

• Flush immediately with copious water for 20 minutes.
• Remove contaminated clothes.
• Seek emergency medical care.

Eye Contact

• Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
• Seek immediate ophthalmologic assistance.

Inhalation

• Move to fresh air.
• Administer oxygen if breathing is labored.
• Emergency medical attention needed due to NOx exposure.

Ingestion

• Do NOT induce vomiting.
• Rinse mouth and give water or milk if conscious.
• Immediate medical assistance necessary.

Emergency Equipment Checklist

• Full acid spill kit with neutralizers (lime/soda ash)
• Eye wash and safety showers
• Nitric acid-resistant PPE and suits
• HDPE neutralization drums
• NOx-compatible respirators and masks
• Acid-proof signage and chemical hazard chart

Waste Disposal

• Neutralize using lime or soda ash.
• Transfer waste to HDPE containers.
• Label as “Nitric Acid Waste – Hazardous”.
• Coordinate disposal with certified hazardous waste agency.