Hydrochloric acid is produced on a large scale from the reaction of common salt (sodium chloride) with sulfuric acid. Popular synonyms for hydrochloric acid are muriatic acid, salt spirits, and gastric acid. Hydrochloric acid has a wide application in the production of plastic, PVC, polyurethane, metal pickling, pickling, leather processing, food additives, including gelatin production, and most importantly, in household cleaning. More than 20 million metric tons of this acid are produced annually. It is well understood that its manufacture, handling, transport, use and disposal can expose millions of people to its corrosive and asphyxiating nature. Since it is used for household cleaning, children are also vulnerable.

The human body can be exposed to this acid through inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, and eye contact. Inhalation of acid vapors causes coughing, choking, and burning in the throat. If this acid is ingested, it causes burning in the mouth and throat and, in its concentrated form, causes severe pain in the mouth, chest, and abdomen, along with nausea and vomiting. Acid mist, if inhaled, can cause severe irritation to the respiratory tract. This acid is highly corrosive. Skin contact with its concentrated solution can cause mild to severe chemical burns. Its concentrated vapor can cause redness and pain with blistering of the skin. Liquefied acid can cause tissue death, frostbite and ulceration which also affect meat. Short-term exposure to hydrochloric acid in the eyes causes problems ranging from irritation, swelling, burning, blurred vision, photophobia to superficial cell damage and blindness.

Mandatory statutes exist when hydrochloric acid is managed in bulk, such as during manufacturing, handling, transportation, use, and disposal, as well as for workplace safety. This includes chemical resistant clothing, face shield, boots and eye protection goggles, approved respirators complete with proper training in using such protective equipment.

Knowledge of first aid management is very necessary for industrial workers as well as for students and common people since this acid is accessible in educational and home institutions in its virgin state or as a branded and mixed product used for cleaning floors and toilets. .

The following are first aid measures for various types of exposure:-

1. Inhale

Hydrochloric acid vapors are quite irritating and suffocating. If inhaled, move person to plenty of fresh air. If breathing has stopped, resort to artificial respiration (mouth-to-mouth respiration should be avoided) and keep the affected person warm by covering them with a blanket. Administer oxygen and take the patient to the nearest health center for the most need.

2. Ingestion

If a person swallows hydrochloric acid and is conscious, give the affected person a large amount of water and milk to drink. A dilute (4%) solution in water of sodium bicarbonate or hydrocarbonate, popularly used as baking soda, baking soda, baking soda, baking soda, is the most effective antidote. Its alkaline properties neutralize the acid/corrosive properties of hydrochloric acid. Subsequent treatment, such as induction of vomiting and appropriate treatment, should be carried out in the presence of a doctor.

3. Skin contact

The affected part of the skin should be rinsed (without rubbing) with a large amount of water. If the whole body has been affected, give him a good bath after removing his clothes. For washing you can use a disinfectant soap that has alkaline properties. The alkali will neutralize the acid. The affected person should be removed for further medical attention.

4. Eye contact

First, remove your contact lenses, if you have them. Affected eyes should be washed lightning fast and abundantly with plenty of water for about 15 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.