reagent safety, precautions, and disposal

[robstar]

I assume chemical manufacturers and distributors are required to write fairly conservative warnings on their products, but... just how cautious should we be re: incidental reagent contact?

That is, i've noticed that for "eye and skin contact" some (TF-100 test kit) reagents say "treat symptoms as needed" and others simply say "seek medical attention" -- for the latter, does that mean that a few drops of skin contact is A Big Deal or is it only eye contact that warrants calling poison control/doc?

I realize there are a broad set of chemicals involved, so maybe the question is "have y'all ever sought medical attention involving reagents?"

(follow-up question: in test quantities, are all the reagents disposable via residential sewer systems, or should we be collecting some of them and taking them to hazmat disposal facilities?)

 

[domct203]

I’ve never had any issues with the reagents ....... In normal use they should not contact you at all. If you get a drop or two on your skin simply wash with soap and water, you’ll be fine.

While I don’t see how it could happen, if you accidentally confuse your R-871 with your bottle of eye drops I would seek medical attention immediately.

With the exception of the CYA test, I do my testing indoors, and dump the sample down the drain when finished.

 

[OTPirate]

R-0718 (Silver nitrate) used in salt water tests will stain your skin if it gets on your skin. It does go away in a few days. Taylor Technologies' website has all the SDS information for every reagent in their kits and the TF-100 kit. Here is an old link regarding disposal: Disposal of old test reagents.