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How to Safely Handle Caustic Soda

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TOPIC: How to Safely Handle Caustic Soda Caustic soda and lye are both common names for the chemical sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is a strong caustic agent available in pure form as pellets or granules. It can also be sold in liquid form as a 50% saturated solution. Because sodium hydroxide is such a common caustic agent, it is used in many industrial processes including paper production, food processing, aluminum production and many other processes which involve increasing the pH. It is also heavily used in the production of strong cleaning and degreasing agents. Domestically, sodium hydroxide is used in the production of soap, hair relaxer and drain cleaners. Here are some safety tips when working around sodium hydroxide: Dry Form: o Keep it dry. When combined with water, the reaction is exothermic, meaning it gives off a great deal of heat which could burst the container or cause burns. Dry sodium hydroxide is very caustic when it makes contact with skin or eyes. Always wear safety glasses and suitable gloves (neoprene, nitrile or natural rubber) when working with it. Avoid inhaling sodium hydroxide dust if it becomes airborne.

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Liquid Form: o The liquid form is more dangerous to work around than the dry form due to splash hazards. It can cause severe chemical burns to the eyes and skin. Always wear safety goggles, face shield, gloves and chemical apron when using the chemical. Sodium hydroxide solutions greater than 2% by weight should be labeled as corrosive. Do not let sodium hydroxide come in contact with aluminum. It reacts violently and produces hydrogen gas, creating a fire and explosion hazard.

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The material in this document is provided for informational purposes only and not as a comprehensive or exhaustive resource on this topic. This material has been compiled from a multitude of sources believed to be accurate; however, Caterpillar Inc. assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or currency of this information and encourages you to consult experts in this area for more information. In no event does the content of this document supersede any applicable local, state, or federal statutes or regulations.

First aid: If either the dry or liquid form comes in contact with skin or eyes, flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical help. Spills can be neutralized with a weak acid such as vinegar. Questions to Generate Discussion Your coworker has just spilled some liquid caustic soda on his shirt sleeve. What do you do? If you get caustic soda in your eyes, how long should you flush with water?
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Control ID: V1110.1