ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
CHROMIC POTASSIUM SULPHATE (CrK(SO4)2.12H20)
SYNONYMS
Chrome alum, chromium potassium sulphate.
CHARACTERISTICS
Efflorescent, violet crystals or crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic fumes of sulphur.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance has a relatively low toxicity but the effects are
accumulative whether ingested or inhaled. It is an eye and skin
irritant. It is a potential carcinogen.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from heat.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin and eye contact and the
possibility of inhaling the dust. A long sleeved laboratory coat
or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a
minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin immediately wash the affected area with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists seek medical
advice.
Eyes immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists seek
immediate medical attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. If irritation
or discomfort persist seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth with water and seek immediate
medical advice.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat.
DISPOSAL
WEAR: Rubber gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
SPILLS:
Solid - collect in a beaker, dissolve in a large amount of
water. Add soda ash, mix and neutralise with 6M hydrochloric
acid and discharge to sewer with large excess of water.
Solution - cover with soda ash, mix and scoop into a beaker of
water. Neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid and discharge to
sewer with a large excess of water. If a spill contains a
fluoride, add slaked lime in addition to the above treatment.
PACKAGE LOTS:
Add slowly to a large container of water. Stir in a slight
excess of soda ash. If fluoride is present add slaked lime. Let
stand for 24 hours. Decant or siphon into another container and
neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid. Discharge to sewer with a
large excess of water. The sludge may be added to land fill.
ENVIRONMENT
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