Hazards of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a clear, water-like liquid which has a faint bluish cast, when seen in a large quantity, and a sharp, acrid odor. Concentrated hydrogen peroxide, if handled properly, is considered to be no more dangerous than most other corrosive and flammable fuels. However, it is considered a fire hazard, and contact of the solution with any combustible material, including most fabrics, usually results in a spontaneously ignited fire. The fire cannot be smothered because of the oxygen supplied during decomposition. Therefore, water, which dilutes the peroxide and cools the flame, is the only satisfactory fire-extinguishing agent. Other agents, such as caustic and foam, may combine with hydrogen peroxide to form dangerous mixtures.

Normally, hydrogen peroxide is not explosive; however, it has been known to detonate if subjected to a violent shock load or heated to high temperature while confined. Also, vapors over concentrated solutions have been exploded with hot wire.

Concentrated hydrogen peroxide, although not toxic, is a strong oxidizing agent and inorganic irritant. Contact with the skin should be avoided. Its vapor causes irritation to the skin, mucous membrane, and the eyes. If contact with the skin is relatively short, no injury will result beyond a temporary bleaching accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation. Contact for longer periods results in redness and, possibly, blistering. No permanent injury has been observed from exposure of the human skin to hydrogen peroxide.

Inhalation of hydrogen-peroxide vapor may cause extreme irritation and inflammation in the nose and throat and, if prolonged, can produce swelling or accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Exposure for short periods has not caused lasting harm.

Exposure of the eyes to splashes from concentrated hydrogen peroxide may cause injury such as ulceration of the cornea, with resulting blindness. It should be noted particularly that injury to the eyes may not be apparent immediately. Corneal ulceration may appear even a week or more after exposure. It must be realized, however, that vapor will sting slightly and cause watering of the eye, but no real injury.