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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