Safety Reference · pH Down
Citric Acid
General handling and safety reference information.
Identification
Hazard Overview
Citric acid is a mild, weak acid widely used in food and household products, but concentrated powder or solutions can still irritate eyes and skin, and dust can irritate the respiratory tract. It is combustible in dust form under specific conditions but is not otherwise flammable or reactive in normal handling.
First Aid Measures
- Eye contact: Flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Skin contact: Wash with water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Large amounts may cause gastrointestinal irritation — seek medical attention if symptomatic.
Handling & Storage
Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed container, away from strong bases and oxidizers. Avoid generating dust. Keep away from reactive metals in concentrated solution form, as acids can be mildly corrosive to some metals over time.
Personal Protective Equipment
- Safety glasses when weighing or mixing concentrated solutions
- Gloves for extended handling
- Dust mask if handling dry powder in a poorly ventilated space
Spill & Disposal
Sweep up dry material for disposal. Dilute small spilled solutions with water before disposal per local regulations.