Nitric acid is a colorless oxidizing agent that could become potentially explosive when in contact with certain compounds such as metallic powders, carbides and cyanides. It can also be very violent and self-igniting when used with some organic compounds, an example of which is turpentine. That is why when choosing a storage area you need to make sure that it is kept away from organics and bases. Needless to say, it has quite a reputation for being hazardous and it is not at all friendly to careless people.

Although it is potentially dangerous, it is a very important component in some industrial products. That is why its production is still necessary for most industries. In fact, there are a lot of uses for HNO3. It is used to manufacture explosives, fertilizers, nitrates, dyes, some drugs, perfumes and sulphuric acid (which is also important for some industrial processes). Aside from this, it is also used in the purification processes of platinum, gold, silver, and the likes. In the process of etching designs for bronze, brass and copper wares, this oxidizing agent is also necessary.

The uses mentioned are just some of its contributions. That is why, amidst the danger that it carries, a lot of people still risk becoming suppliers of nitric acid and manufacturers of products that make use of HNO3. Since it is inevitable for some people to include it in their daily and professional lives, the most that can be done is to implement safety measures in its handling and usage. In this regard, there are laws that limit and prohibit the use, distribution, manufacturing and production of nitric acid. Thus, do not be surprised if ever you find it difficult to get access to HNO3 whenever you need to. It is not as frequently sold as your favorite meal which you can easily purchase from anywhere anytime. You have to go through a lot of trouble just to find and get a hold of it.

Since nitric acid is dangerous when not handled properly, you need to know the specific precautions that you need to take and the warning signals that you need to know. Here are some of the things to help you safely use this oxidizing agent.

1. When inhaled, the vapors of the acid can cause difficulties in breathing. In fact, if there is prolonged exposure, one can even get pulmonary edema and pneumonia, both of which are fatal. Be aware of irritation of the throat, nose and respiratory tract, choking and coughing as these are clear indications that a person has already inhaled its vapors.

2. When ingested, it can have immediate effects such as painful and burning sensations in the digestive passages such as the mouth, throat, esophagus, and the gastrointestinal tract. However, the idea of somebody swallowing it accidentally is quite uncommon.

3. Skin contact can also be damaging as it could cause severe burns, redness, pain and even deep ulcer if concentrated solutions get to the skin. Thus, make sure to wear prescribed clothing for handling the acid.

4. Burns and permanent damage to the eyes are also possible if nitric acid gets into your eyes. Likewise, its vapors can cause eye irritation. Hence, a pair of goggles could become very handy.

5. Being around it for a long period of time could cause teeth erosion and damage to the lungs. This is most likely to happen since the acid is known to have corrosive properties.

6. Also, HNO3 can make any underlying conditions worsen. If a person already has any skin disorder, eye ailment, and cardiopulmonary problems, he becomes more susceptible to aggravating his conditions if he works and is around the acid frequently. That is why it is important to thoroughly check the medical histories of workers and applicants.

Hopefully, by following these measures, the risk of HNO3 acid-related accidents can be lessened if not totally avoided.