Introduction

The training for the handling of hydrofluoric acid (HF) consists of the information provided in the documents and text below. After reading and understanding this information, you must attend a mandatory briefing on HF and the workstation, complete an online test (linked below) and undergo a practical assessment of competence.

Documents

(PDF) Hydrofluoric Acid PresentationLink opens in a new window
(PDF) Safe Operating Procedure for the Use of Hydrofluoric Acid and Soluble FluoridesLink opens in a new window

Outline procedure for handling HF - for full details refer to the Safe Operating Procedure

1. The Operator-Observer principle must be followed with two fully trained persons present at all times.
2. HF containers are not to be opened, or left open, outside a work station or fume cupboard.
3. The container currently in use (and therefore has the primary seal broken) will be stored inside the workstation, or fume cupboard, on the work surface and not inside the storage cupboards.
4. There must be only one source container of concentrated HF in a workstation, or fume cupboard, at a time.
5. All containers, including baths, are to be clearly labelled with the strength of HF and any other added chemicals, e.g. for specific types of silicon wafer etch. This label will list the chemical content and not the proprietary name for the etchant (e.g. "RCA etch" is not acceptable).
6. Bottles containing HF are only to be carried inside the building and across the open laboratory in an approved carrying crate.
7. There must be sufficient absorber/neutraliser (Spill XA powder) on hand at all times to deal with the spillage of a full 2.5 litre container.
8. There must be calcium gluconate gel and Hexafluorine solution at each workstation together with eye irrigation facilities. NOTE: Calcium gluconate gel has a limited shelf life - CHECK the dates.
9. All members of the research groups, and any visitors, working in the labs will be given written information on HF and other hazards specific to the work area.
10. Suitable safety clothing (PPE) must be worn by any person using dangerous chemicals.
11. Eye/body showers are placed close to working areas, fume cupboard or workstation.

Clean room specific information

Please refer to the Safe Operating Procedure for the Use of HF Acid and Soluble Fluorides. Specific clean room documents for accidents and neutralisation.

Briefing

Contact Sue Burrows in order to arrange to attend a briefing session on HF and the workstation.

Online test

Log into Moodle with your IT Services username and password. You must achieve 90% correct to pass the quiz.