Peracetic acid (PAA), also known as peroxyacetic acid, is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent, vinegar-like odor. It is formed from the reaction of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide. PAA serves as an antimicrobial agent, disinfectant, and sanitizer across various industries, including food processing, healthcare, and agriculture.
Peracetic acid is a potent chemical that can be hazardous depending on its concentration, exposure method, and duration. Understanding its potential dangers is important for safe handling, especially since concentrated forms are highly corrosive.
How Peracetic Acid Affects the Body
Peracetic acid primarily acts through oxidation, which damages cells. This strong oxidizing property leads to tissue destruction upon contact.
When inhaled, PAA vapors irritate the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation. High concentrations can result in chemical pneumonitis, which is lung inflammation caused by inhaling chemical irritants. Direct contact with the skin can cause severe irritation, chemical burns, redness, blistering, and pain.
If peracetic acid gets into the eyes, it causes severe irritation, pain, and can lead to permanent eye damage, including corneal damage. Ingestion of PAA has corrosive effects on the digestive tract. This can result in internal burns and damage to organs like the esophagus and stomach.
Recognizing Signs of Exposure
Inhalation of PAA vapors can cause immediate symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, throat irritation, and chest tightness. For severe inhalation exposure, a dangerous buildup of fluid in the lungs, known as pulmonary edema, may occur.
Skin contact with peracetic acid often results in redness, pain, blistering, and chemical burns. The corrosive nature of PAA means that even brief contact can lead to significant skin damage. Eye exposure typically presents as severe pain, excessive tearing, redness, blurred vision, and swelling of the eyelids.
If peracetic acid is ingested, individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing. Corrosive burns in the mouth and throat are also common. In severe cases, systemic effects can develop, potentially leading to widespread toxicity, shock, and organ failure.
Immediate Actions for Exposure
First, move the affected person to fresh air and remove any contaminated clothing. It is important to avoid self-exposure during this process.
For skin contact, thoroughly rinse the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. If PAA gets into the eyes, immediately flush them with large amounts of water for at least 15 to 20 minutes, holding the eyelids open to ensure thorough rinsing. Seek immediate medical attention for eye exposure.
If inhaled, if breathing becomes difficult, oxygen administration may be necessary. In cases of ingestion, do not induce vomiting. Instead, rinse the person’s mouth with water and, if conscious and able to swallow, give them water or milk to help dilute the chemical. All but the most minor skin exposures, and certainly any inhalation or ingestion exposures, require urgent professional medical evaluation. Contact emergency services or a poison control center immediately.
Safe Handling and Prevention
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is important when handling concentrated forms of PAA. This includes wearing appropriate chemical-resistant gloves, such as those made from nitrile or neoprene, and eye protection like goggles or a face shield to prevent splashes. In areas where airborne vapors or aerosols might be present, respiratory protection, such as a suitable respirator, may be necessary.
Adequate ventilation is important in areas where peracetic acid is used to help disperse vapors and prevent hazardous concentrations from building up. Proper storage of PAA is also important; it should be kept in cool, well-ventilated areas, away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials like strong bases or certain metals. Containers should be stored upright and have venting devices to prevent pressure buildup.
Training is important for individuals who regularly handle peracetic acid, ensuring they understand its hazards and safe practices. When diluting concentrated PAA, always add the chemical to water slowly, rather than adding water to the chemical. This helps to control the reaction and prevent excessive heat generation.