Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Inhaling acid fumes on accident

At my work, someone spray painted so furniture inside getting paint on the interior tile. They proceeded to clean the tile with an acid. They can't remember what acid it was but they do know that its name started with either an "m" or "mono". My question is, this is day one of my inhalation exposure and my sinuses in my nose are on fire when I breathe. Is this serious enough to go to a doctor now, should I see a doctor any way, or am I ok and this will pass soon?

John Bertram
AMC - Sugar Land, Texas
2005

---

First of two simultaneous responses --

Probably the acid used was muriatic acid, I would go and see a doctor immediately, instead of waiting for your conditions to pass!

Bryan Parker
- New Mexico
2005

---

Second of two simultaneous responses --

GO SEE THE DOCTOR! (It's probably muriatic acid [affil links] AKA hydrochloric acid)

James Totter, CEF
- Tallahassee, Florida
2005

---

John,

If you are concerned about anything to do with your health do not hesitate to contact a physician.

From your description I suspect that you have inhaled fumes from muriatic acid (proper name Hydrochloric acid). It sounds as if you have some serious burning of your nasal passageways and this should be treated immediately.

There is a possibility of burning your oesophagus, trachea, lungs etc from these fumes, so next time ensure that you use the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), that should include a face mask with acid vapour cartridges fitted. Better still, do it under active extraction. Or even better - don't do it at all, give it to a professional who will know how to handle the chemicals.

You should think yourself lucky, the acid could have permanently scarred your lungs, throat, oesophagus etc, or even have killed you. If this has happened at work I hope that the person responsible has been suitably reprimanded, there is no excuse for putting your colleagues lives at risk.

Brian Terry
Aerospace - Yeovil, Somerset, UK
2005

---

Hopefully, hopefully you've seen your doctor by now but I had to pipe in! OK OK enough of the hype - while I can't dispute any of the suggestions from my colleagues in the industry, fact is that your co-worker used a very commonly acid widely available to ANYONE including yourself at the corner hardware store ( oops - I'm dating myself ). I meant corner giant box store ( Home Depot or Lowes, etc. ). Muriatic acid is used all the time to clean cement and bricks and garage floors. Like many hyped workplace hazards, there are many overlooked and under-appreciated right under your nose at home.

Milt Stevenson, Jr.
Syracuse, New York
2005

Thank you, everyone who posted. My doctor thinks I'll be fine and the person responsible was dealt with. Again, thank you.

John Bertram
- Missouri City, Texas
2005