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First Aid: Chemical Exposure

Some chemicals cause burns. Others may be absorbed through the skin or lungs, causing hidden damage. If possible, always refer to the particular chemical's Safety Data Sheet or contact the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) for expert advice. In general, follow the steps below.

Step 1. Stop the source

  • Remove the person from contact with the chemical spill, airborne particles, or fumes. (Wear gloves or use other safety equipment as needed to protect yourself from exposure to the chemical.)

  • Take off any clothes or jewelry that have been in contact with the chemical. Chemical injuries, just like heat burns, get worse as long as the source is in contact with the body.

Step 2. Clear the lungs

  • Take the person to fresh air. This may mean going into another room or leaving the building.

  • Do CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if there is no pulse or breathing.

Step 3. Flush the eyes

  • Flush the affected eye with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Make sure the water is cool, especially if its source is an outside hose or eyewash station.

  • Don't accidentally flush chemicals into an unaffected eye. Hold the head so that the injured eye is on the bottom. Flush from the nose downward.

  • If possible, remove contact lenses while rinsing. Do not attempt to rinse and reinsert contact lenses. Discard them.

Step 4. Clean the skin

  • Brush water-activated chemicals, such as lime, from the skin, instead of using water. Be careful not to brush particles into the eyes.

  • If the chemical does not react with water, flush the affected skin with large amounts of cool water for at least 15 minutes. Make sure the water flow is not forceful enough to cause pain or break blisters. During cold weather, warmer water is needed to prevent hypothermia. Soap may be useful in the removal of oily substances.

  • Don't brush away chemicals with your bare hands.

When to contact your doctor

Chemicals may cause serious damage not only to the outside of the body but also to the inside. If absorbed into the blood, chemicals may start a silent attack on the kidneys or liver. Contact your health care provider right away if:

  • A chemical has come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • The Safety Data Sheet calls the chemical hazardous or likely to cause damage.

  • The container label warns of corrosive contents, which can wear away skin.

Call 911

Call 911 right away if the victim has:

  • Symptoms of shock.

  • Trouble breathing.

  • Burns over a large area.

While you wait for help

  • Reassure the person.

  • Do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if there is no pulse or breathing.

  • Check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to determine whether to expect delayed effects.

Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Southard RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Vinita Wadhawan Researcher
Date Last Reviewed: 2/1/2025
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