Is the odour of sodium hydroxide solutions reliable as a warning property?
POOR – sodium hydroxide has no odour. How can I work with sodium hydroxide solutions safely? This material is EXTREMELY CORROSIVE and HIGHLY REACTIVE. Before handling, it is important that engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements and personal hygiene measures are being followed. People working with this chemical should be properly trained regarding its hazards and its safe use. Use the smallest possible amounts in a designated area separate from the storage area with adequate ventilation. Immediately report leaks, spills or failures of the engineering controls. Inspect containers for damage or leaks before handling. Use the type of containers recommended by the manufacturer. Unprotected persons should avoid all contact with this chemical including contaminated equipment. Do not use with incompatible materials such as strong acids, nitroaromatic, nitroparaffinic or organohalogen compounds and metals such as aluminum, zinc and tin. Protect from uninte
