Safety measures when working with industrial chemicals
Industrial chemicals play an important role in wastewater treatment, textile dyeing, cleaning and many other manufacturing industries.
To operate efficiently and safely, businesses need to comply with prescribed procedures, PPE and warehouse standards.
Chemical warehouse of Loc Thien Company
1. The role of industrial chemicals
In wastewater and water treatment, chemicals such as PAC, Javen (NaOCl), NaOH, HCl, H2SO4 Support coagulation, disinfection and pH adjustment.
In textile dyeing, caustic soda and industrial detergents help degrease, clean surfaces, and improve dyeing quality.
With ever-increasing production volumes, process optimization and chemical safety not only protect people, but also reduce downtime and incident costs.
That is a competitive advantage for businesses in the Central and Southern regions – where industrial infrastructure is accelerating.
2. Common risks & management principles
Typical hazards include skin burns, eye damage, inhalation of toxic vapors, fire or explosion, or corrosion of equipment.
Some solvents are volatile, and strong acids/bases are capable of causing severe chemical burns.
3. Chemical safety precautions
3.1 Evaluation & Replacement
Review MSDS, assess risks, prioritize replacing toxic chemicals with safer options if technically feasible.
3.2 Ventilation & isolation
Design local exhaust ventilation (LEVs) at the point of emission; shield the process generating toxic vapors/gases; restrict unauthorized personnel.
3.3 Standardize operations
Develop SOP for input, pouring, dilution, mixing, cleaning; control minimum amount of chemicals needed.
- Fully label: name, concentration, risk, opening date; absolutely do not use food packaging to contain chemicals.
- Special mixing tool with safety cap; do not use eating utensils.
- Regular training: hazard identification, spill handling, first aid, proper use of PPE.
Separate, ventilated storage, spill trays and clear warning signs.4. Important principles when operating
Always read MSDS before use. When opening container, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing vapors.
If solvent gets on clothes, change immediately and dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Wash hands before eating/drinking; eating, drinking and smoking are strictly prohibited in chemical areas.
- Pour/mix only the amount needed; label all secondary containers; manage expired chemicals.
- In case of skin/eye contact, flush with water continuously for ≥15 minutes and seek medical help.
5. Spill handling and quick first aid procedures
When a chemical pool is detected, notify immediately and isolate the area. Use absorbent material (dry sand or specialized absorbent kit),
collect hazardous waste according to procedures.
5.1 Acid/base spill
Use neutral absorbent material; neutralize (if specified); do not pour water directly to avoid splashing.
5.2 Solvent spillage
Cut off the source of fire, increase ventilation, use absorbent mats; close the leaking container and move it to a safe area.
5.3 First aid
Skin/eye contact: Flush with water for ≥15 minutes. Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Ingestion: Follow MSDS, do not induce vomiting unless directed.
6. Chemical warehouse & signage
Store in a separate warehouse, with a spill-proof floor/tray, good ventilation, suitable temperature and humidity.
Classification by nature (acid, base, oxidizing, flammable), not cross-reactive.
- Clear GHS signs, escape map, standard fire extinguisher, emergency shower.
- Import - export - inventory according to FIFO/FEFO, control lids and box status.
- Safe distance from production area; restrict unauthorized personnel.
7. PPE: choose the right type for each chemical group
Chemical resistant gloves (nitrile/neoprene/butyl) according to MSDS; full face shield, suitable organic/inorganic vapor filtering respirator;
Waterproof clothing and boots. Check the mask for leaks periodically.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is Javen (NaOCl) different from Chlorine?
Javen is a common 10–12% NaOCl solution, which easily loses activity over time; Chlorine (Ca(ClO)₂) in powder/pellet form has a higher active concentration and is more durable. Choose according to operating scenario and cost.
PAC and alum: which one should I use?
PAC has higher coagulation efficiency, wide pH range, less increase in dissolved salts compared to alum. However, the decision depends on raw water quality and total cost.
Does acid storage require separate spill prevention?
Yes. Use a spill tray/ledge of adequate volume, corrosion-resistant material, separate from bases and strong oxidizing agents. Provide adequate signage and ventilation.
How often should safety training be provided?
At least once a year or when chemicals/processes are changed. New personnel/contractors entering the workshop must be trained before starting work.
9. Contact Loc Thien
Loc Thien Company Limited – Prestigious industrial chemical supplier in the Central and Southern regions.
- Headquarter: 452/6B Provincial Road 10, Binh Tri Dong Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phone: 028 6269 5669 – 028 6269 5662 | Hotline: Phone: (+84) 979 891 929
- Email: locthien@locthien.vn
- Website: locthien.vn - hoachatcoban.net
Warehouse system: Ba Ria - Vung Tau (Phuoc Hung Hamlet, My Xuan Ward, Tan Thanh District) • Dong Nai (Phuoc Binh Ward, Long Thanh District) • Binh Duong (Tan Dong Hiep B Industrial Park, Di An)
Javen 10% – Disinfection, water treatment •
HCl 32–35% – Industrial applications •
NaOH – Caustic soda flakes & liquid caustic soda •
PAC – Water treatment coagulant
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