Dangers Of Exposure To Hydrochloric Acid

A Workplace Risk and Claiming Compensation

The dangers of exposure to hydrochloric acid have been highlighted following a company being fined £2.5m following uncontrolled acid releases. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirmed the fine after a chemical manufacturing company in Essex pleaded guilty following two incidents.

According to the finding, schools in the area were forced to close after one incident saw the release of a hydrogen chloride gas cloud. The cloud was formed after 300000 litres of the acid was released due to badly maintained pipework.

Many workplaces use hazardous chemicals for production, cleaning and processing. Therefore, hydrochloric acid is widely used in many industries. However, it is highly corrosive, especially when airborne.

If an uncontrolled release of this acid happens, you are at risk of inhalation exposure and resulting harm.

If you or a loved one have been injured at work after exposure to hydrochloric acid which caused an injury, contact Jefferies Claims about an accident at work claim for compensation

What Is Hydrochloric Acid?

Hydrochloric acid is a clear, colourless solution of hydrogen chloride gas (HCl) in water and requires strict safety measures. Chiefly, in industrial settings, it’s used for:

• Cleaning and pickling of metal surfaces
• pH control
• Food processing
• Chemical production
• Oil well acidizing

How Can Inhalation Happen?

Inhaling hydrochloric acid becomes a risk for you primarily when it’s released into the air, either accidentally or due to a system failure. So, HCl fumes can be produced when:

• Concentrated HCl spills and reacts with air moisture
• It is heated and vapours are generated
• Inadequate ventilation allows fumes to accumulate
• An equipment malfunction causes a gas leak

Hydrogen chloride gas is heavier than air and tends to settle in low-lying areas, making confined spaces especially dangerous for you and colleagues. Further, when mixed with atmospheric moisture, it forms a dense, mist that can rapidly damage your respiratory tissues.

Health Effects of Inhaling Hydrochloric Acid

Inhalation of hydrochloric acid vapor affects the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. Therefore, the severity of symptoms depends on the duration and concentration during exposure.

Immediate/Short-Term Effects

Even brief exposure to low concentrations can lead to:

• Burning sensation in the nose and throat
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Difficulty breathing
• Eye and skin irritation

If the concentration is high or exposure occurs in an enclosed space, more acute symptoms may occur. This can include:

• Pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs)
• Bronchospasm (tightening of airways)
• Severe inflammation of the airways
• Headache, dizziness, or unconsciousness in extreme cases

Even after you are removed from the exposure site, these symptoms can develop within minutes and may worsen.

Prolonged or Repeated Exposure

If exposed to long-term or repeated exposure to lower concentrations, you may suffer from:

• Chronic bronchitis
• Asthma-like symptoms
• Damage to lung tissues
• Increased sensitivity to other respiratory irritants

In some severe cases, long-term respiratory damage can be irreversible.

Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Safety procedures are crucial when dealing with hazardous chemicals. Employers are required to have strict health and safety measures in place. So, they must ensure you are well trained, equipped and protected in such environments.

However, if you’ve been exposed to hydrochloric acid in the workplace and suffered an illness or injury, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim.

Employers are required to:

• Assess and manage risks associated with dangerous substances
• Provide adequate ventilation and safety equipment
• Train staff on how to handle and respond to chemical exposure
• Maintain safe working conditions

If you are injured or made ill from hydrochloric acid exposure following your employer failing in any of these duties, you may have a case for compensation.

Contact Us For Your Next Steps

It’s crucial to seek legal advice to have your potential claim assesses by expert lawyers. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we can guide you through making a claim.

To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our friendly team at Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.