How to React if Your Eyes Come Into Contact with Acid

Acid is often found in chemicals and other natural substances used in a wide variety of applications. From the hydrochloric acid used in food products to the acids used in chemistry labs or at optometrist offices, this type of chemical is found in a wide range of locations. Understanding the appropriate steps to take when the eyes have come in contact with acid will help reduce the potential damage.

Begin with Irrigation

Irrigation of the eyes is the process of rinsing the acid from the eyes and is always the first step to minimize or prevent damage to the eyes. It is vital to immediately irrigate the eyes before taking any further steps.

Irrigation requires a large amount of water. In a lab and many places of employment that handle acid regularly, an eyewash station is usually set aside for the cleanest possible water. An eyewash station often uses filtered or distilled water for the purpose of flushing acid and other chemicals from the eyes. If an eyewash station is not available, the cleanest source of water is preferred to remove the chemical from the eyes.

Keep the eyes open as wide as possible and flush directly with the water. Washing the eyes with water will require a reasonably large amount of time. When acid gets in the eyes, it is generally recommended to flush the eyes for at least half an hour before taking any other course of action.

If it is possible to obtain assistance, it is usually best to get help. One person can hold the eyelids open while the other flushes with water for better results and to prevent the eyelid from closing while washing the eyes.

If the acid is also on the hands, assistance is a key to cleaning out the eye properly. The other individual will need to splash the water up into the eyes for flushing to help prevent the addition of more acid. For times when others are not around, it is still important to flush the eyes. Simply rinse the acid off the hands briefly before working on flushing the eyes. Remove any clothing that is or might be contaminated.

Call for Assistance

Calling for medical help by dialing 911 is the next step in proper care. If it is possible to call while flushing the eyes or if another individual is around, call immediately. If it is not, flush the eyes and then call. When help arrives, take a sample of the acid for optimal treatment.

Acid coming into contact with the eyes is likely to result in burns and discomfort, regardless of whether it was at Optometrist on Gold Coast or a chemistry lab. Fortunately, acting quickly will make it easier to avoid serious damage and ensure the burns are as mild as possible.

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