4.1 Description of first-aid measures
General advice
Hydrofluoric (HF) acid burns require immediate and specialized first aid and medical treatment. Symptoms may be delayed up to 24 hours depending on the concentration of
HF. After decontamination with water, further damage can occur due to penetration/absorption of the fluoride ion. Treatment should be directed toward binding the fluoride ion as well as the effects of exposure. Skin exposures can be treated with a 2.5% calcium gluconate gel repeated until burning ceases. More serious skin exposures may require subcutaneous calcium gluconate except for digital areas unless the physician is experienced in this technique, due to the potential for tissue injury from increased pressure. Absorption can readily occur through the subungual areas and should be considered when undergoing decontamination. Prevention of absorption of the fluoride ion in cases of ingestion can be obtained by giving milk, chewable calcium carbonate tablets or
Milk of Magnesia to conscious victims. Conditions such as hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia and cardiac arrhythmias should be monitored for, since they can occur after exposure.
If inhaled
After inhalation: fresh air.
In case of skin contact
First treatment with calcium gluconate paste.In case of skin contact: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/ shower.
In case of eye contact
After eye contact: rinse out with plenty of water. Remove contact lenses.
If swallowed
After swallowing: make victim drink water (two glasses at most). Consult doctor if feeling unwell.
4.2 Most important symptoms and effects, both acute and delayed
The most important known symptoms and effects are described in the labelling (see section 2) and/or in section 11
4.3 Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed
No data available