When handling hydrofluoric acid, it is essential to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent skin, eye, and respiratory system exposure [1]. The specific PPE required depends on the concentration of the acid, the potential for exposure, and the task being performed 9, 12.

In situations where there is a high potential for exposure to hydrofluoric acid, such as in confined spaces or when handling high concentrations, Level A protection may be necessary 1, 15. Level A PPE includes:

• Positive pressure, full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), or positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA, approved by NIOSH [1]
• Totally-encapsulating chemical-protective suit [1]
• Coveralls and long underwear [1]
• Outer and inner chemical-resistant gloves [1]
• Chemical-resistant boots with steel toe and shank [1]
• Hard hat (worn under the suit) [1]
• Disposable protective suit, gloves, and boots (depending on suit construction, may be worn over totally-encapsulating suit) [1]

In situations where respiratory protection is essential, but less skin protection is needed, Level B protection may be appropriate 1, 15. Level B PPE includes:

• Positive pressure, full-facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), or positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA (NIOSH approved) [1]
• Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls and long-sleeved jacket; coveralls; one or two-piece chemical-splash suit; disposable chemical-resistant overalls) [1]
• Coveralls [1]
• Outer and inner chemical-resistant gloves [1]

In addition to the above, employees should wear splashproof safety goggles in areas where liquid hydrofluoric acid may contact the eyes [2]. Contact lenses should not be worn in areas where eye contact with hydrofluoric acid can occur [2]. A face shield should also be worn if the face could be splashed with the liquid [2].

Employers are required to provide appropriate PPE at no cost to employees [3], and employees must be trained on how to properly use, maintain, and dispose of the PPE [3]. The PPE should be selected based on an evaluation of the performance characteristics of the PPE relative to the requirements and limitations of the site, the task-specific conditions and duration, and the hazards and potential hazards identified at the site [4].