Chemical safety in water production and treatment
Chemical safety is a key factor in all industrial production and water treatment activities. Industrial chemicals are often corrosive, strong oxidizers, easily cause skin burns, eye damage and affect the health of workers if not managed and used properly. This article will provide technical knowledge, precautions, legal regulations and first aid procedures necessary when working with chemicals.
1. Risks when working with chemicals
Industrial chemicals such as HCl, NaOH, CAP… are often highly corrosive and oxidizing, causing many risks:
- Chemical burns: Direct contact causes deep burns and necrosis.
- Respiratory irritation: Inhalation of concentrated acid/alkali vapors can cause lung damage.
- Environmental pollution: Spills and leaks affect water, soil and air resources.
2. Chemical safety measures
2.1. Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Chemical resistant gloves, goggles, respirator, anti-corrosion clothing.
- Use non-slip, waterproof shoes when working in wet areas.

2.2. Management & storage matter
- Label clearly, with full MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) information.
- Store chemicals in HDPE plastic drums, cool warehouse, away from sunlight and heat sources.
- Separate acid – alkali – organic solvent to prevent dangerous reactions.

2.3. Technical controls
- With ventilation system, leak sensor, safe dosing pump.
- Implement standard operating procedures (SOP); provide regular training to employees.
3. First aid procedures for chemical exposure
- Skin burns: Rinse under clean running water for at least 15–20 minutes, remove contaminated clothing.
- Acid burns: Can be rinsed further with dilute NaHCO₃ solution.
- Alkali burns: Wash with diluted vinegar or lemon solution.
- Eye contact: Rinse immediately with clean water for ≥15 minutes and seek medical attention.
- Inhalation of toxic gases: Take the victim to a fresh air place, give oxygen if needed and go to the emergency room:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
4. Chemical safety regulations & standards
In Vietnam, businesses need to comply Law on Chemicals 2007, Decree 113 / 2017 / ND-CP and the guiding circulars on the management of hazardous chemicals. At the same time, international standards such as ISO, ANSI, OSHA also commonly applied in chemical system design & operation:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Have safety data sheets (SDS) at the workplace.
- Periodic chemical safety training for workers.
- Develop a spill and explosion response plan.
5. Chemical safety in water treatment
In water treatment, chemicals such as HCl, NaOH, CAP, NaOCl (Javen) are commonly used. To ensure safety:
- Dilute chemicals according to instructions, do not pour water into acid, but pour acid into water.
- Combine PAC to reduce chlorine dosage, limit the risk of toxic gas generation.
- Control of residual chlorine in domestic water: 0,2–0,5 mg/L (according to TCVN 01:2009/BYT).
Top Q&A
What is chemical safety?
Chemical safety is a set of measures for managing, using, transporting and preserving chemicals to prevent accidents and protect human health and the environment.
How to treat chemical burns?
Immediately flush with clean water for ≥20 minutes, remove contaminated clothing. For acid burns, use diluted NaHCO₃, for alkali burns, use diluted vinegar/lemon juice. Then take the victim to the emergency room.
How to store chemicals safely?
Store in HDPE plastic drum, cool store, avoid sunlight and high temperature. Separate acid, alkali, and organic solvent to prevent dangerous reactions.
Should chemicals be mixed together?
No. For example, mix HCl Javen will release toxic chlorine gas; mixing acid with alkali causes strong, dangerous reaction.
7. Contact Loc Thien Company
LOC THIEN DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED
📍 452/6B Provincial Road 10, Binh Tri Dong Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
📞 Phone: 028 6269 5669 – 028 6269 5662 | Hotline: (+84)979 891929
📧 Email: locthien@locthien.vn
🌐 Website: hoachatcoban.net - locthien.vn



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