Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Intent
Description
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
1.Intent
This laboratory technique describes the processes for the use, storage, spill resolution and
disposal for concentrated hydrogen peroxide (33%). The technique also provides information
on fire, explosion and hazards as well as first aid techniques.
2. Product description
Hydrogen peroxide is a Class 5.1: Oxidising Substance with a subsidiary risk of a Class 8:
Corrosive Substance and has damaging properties as follows:
Hydrogen peroxide toxicity information
Inhalation
Inhalation of mists or vapours will result in respiratory irritation and possible
harmful corrosive effects including lesions of the nasal septum, pulmonary
oedema, pneumonitis and emphysema.
Ingestion
Ingestion of this product may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and
chemical burns to the mouth, throat and stomach.
Skin
Skin contact will cause redness, itching, irritation, severe pain and chemical
burns with resultant tissue destruction.
Eye
Eye contact will cause stinging, blurring, tearing, severe pain and possible
permanent corneal damage.
Chronic Effects
Prolonged or repeated contact with this material will result in skin irritation
and possibly lead to dermatitis. Repeated or prolonged exposure may also
lead to permanent tissue scarring, pulmonary oedema, pneumonitis and
emphysema. May also aggravate existing respiratory disorders.
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
3. Use of hydrogen peroxide
3.1 Mandatory PPE
When handling hydrogen peroxide, ensure you utilise the following mandatory PPE:
• Long-sleeved 100% cotton shirt and full-length 100% cotton trousers. For additional
protection, a knee-length 100% cotton laboratory coat (with long sleeves which clip at
the wrist) can also be worn.
• Nitrile or super nitrile gloves.
• Eye Protection: either safety glasses, spectacles, goggles or face shield (complying
with AS 1337).
• Enclosed safety shoes (complying with AS 2210).
Figure 1: Person wearing appropriate PPE
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3.2Precautions
When handling hydrogen peroxide:
• It is advisable to apply a barrier cream to the hands prior to use.
• Always have at least one other person present in the laboratory.
• Keep containers closed and in an upright position when not in use.
• Keep containers away from sources of heat (including hot plates, Bunsen burners,
ovens and sunlight) except when heating for testing purposes.
• Keep combustible materials away from peroxide and maintain all equipment in a
thoroughly clean condition.
• Prevent build up of mists or vapours in the atmosphere.
• Ensure a supply of water is readily available.
• Maintain a high level of personal hygiene when using this product, by always washing
hands before eating, drinking, smoking or using toilet facilities.
• It is advisable to apply a moisturiser after washing hands.
3.3 Decanting and dilution
When decanting and diluting peroxide, the following must be observed:
• Decanting must be carried out in a well ventilated area (do not inhale vapours).
• Decanted aliquots can only be stored in reagent bottles, never return decanted aliquots
to the supply container.
• Dispose of unused aliquots in an appropriate manner (see Section 6: Disposal).
• When diluting hydrogen peroxide add the peroxide to water and store the diluted
peroxide solution in a reagent bottle (never add the water to the peroxide).
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Video 1: Decanting and diluting
3.4Labelling
Reagent bottles must be appropriately labelled.
Reagent bottles with capacity larger than 500 mL:
Figure 2: Labelling on reagent container >500 mL
Labels on reagent bottles require the following information:
• Product and chemical name.
• Dangerous goods class (e.g. Class 5.1: Oxidising Substance with a subsidiary risk
of a Class 8: Corrosive Substance).
• United Nations (UN 2014) Number.
• Risk phrases.
• Safety phrases.
• First aid procedures.
• Emergency procedures.
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• Details of manufacturer or importer.
• Reference to MSDS.
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• Expiry date (where provided).
Reagent bottles with capacity 500 mL or smaller:
Labels on reagent bottles require the following information:
• Product and chemical name.
• Date prepared (for diluted solutions of peroxide).
• Expiry date (where provided).
• Name of person responsible for preparing any dilution.
Figure 3: Labelling on reagent bottle <500 mL
3.5 Carrying hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide containers must not be carried by hand. Containers are to be transferred
as follows:
• Small (< 2.5 L) supply containers as well as reagent bottles and beakers must be
transferred using a laboratory carrier.
• Medium (2.5 L) containers must be transferred using a bottle carrier.
Figure 4: Carrying apparatus
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
4. Storage of hydrogen peroxide
To prevent injury to personnel, damage to equipment and to meet legislative storage
requirements, peroxide is to be stored as follows:
4.1 Storage general
• Store in an upright position.
• Monitor containers for deficiencies such as damage or leaks on a monthly basis.
• Store in an approved container with appropriate labelling.
• Keep supply containers tightly closed when not in use and protected against physical
damage.
• Never store with food, beverages or food packaging.
Hydrogen peroxide can not be stored with any of the following substances:
Class
Definition
Chemicals included in this class
1
Explosives
–
2.1
Flammable Gases
Liquid Petroleum Gas, Dymark Spray and Mark
Aerosol (paint), Hydrogen (compressed).
2.3
Toxic Gases
–
3
Flammable Liquids
Toluene, Unleaded Petrol, Xylene, Acetone,
Alcohols.
4.1
Flammable Solids
Relcap.
4.2
Spontaneously Combustible
Substances
Activated Charcoal.
4.3
Dangerous When Wet Substances
–
5.1
Oxidising Agents
Ammonium Nitrate, Perchloric Acid, Silver Nitrate,
Potassium Permanganate, Chromic Acid.
5.2
Organic Peroxides
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Class
Definition
Chemicals included in this class
6.1
Toxic Substances (where toxic
substances are cyanides and
corrosives are acids)
Ammonium Oxalate, Mercuric Iodide, Barium
Chloride (6.1), Potassium Chromate (6.1).
6.2
Infectious Substances
–
7
Radioactive Substances
Americium/Berylium, Cesium.
8
Corrosive Substances
Acetic Anhydride, Ammonia, Ammonium Hydroxide,
Glacial Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Potassium
Hydroxide, Oxalic Acid, Nitric Acid, Sulphuric Acid.
9
Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
Lead (metal plate), Magnesium (tooling plate/slab).
4.2 Laboratory storage
All containers of hydrogen peroxide must be stored in an internally bunded chemical
refrigerator.
Figure 5: Chemical refrigerator with bunding
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
5. Spill resolution
Spills or leaks of hydrogen peroxide must be cleaned up immediately.
5.1 Mandatory PPE
• Respiratory equipment e.g. Half-Face Filter Respirator Class A1P2 (complying with AS/
NZS 1715) for spills in excess of 1 L.
Figure 6: Respirator A1P2
• Long-sleeved 100% cotton shirt and full-length 100% cotton trousers. For additional
protection, a knee-length 100% cotton laboratory coat (with long sleeves which clip at
the wrist) can also be worn.
• Nitrile or super nitrile gloves.
• Eye protection: either safety glasses, spectacles, goggles or face shield (complying LLE
O
with AS 1337).
TR
• Enclosed safety shoes (complying with AS 2210).
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5.2 Immediate action
• Stop any leak if safe to do so.
• Evacuate all unnecessary personnel.
• Turn off all sources of heat.
• Keep combustible materials away from the immediate area of the spill.
• Turn off air conditioning (if possible).
• Open windows and nearby doors to increase ventilation (if possible).
• Use a water spray to prevent vapours from entering the atmosphere.
• Inform the local water authority and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) if
contamination of sewers or waterways occurs.
Video 2: Spill procedures
5.3 Clean up
• Contain the spill with a land boom and dilute with an excess of water.
• Cover the spill with absorbent material such as Chemsorb or Vermiculite until all fluid
has been absorbed.
• Place the contaminated absorbent material in a closed fume cupboard free from any
heat source and allow the peroxide to evaporate using the air from the exhaust system.
• Once the contaminated absorbent material is dry, place it into a plastic bag and seal
with a cable tie for subsequent disposal (see Section 6: Disposal).
• Ventilate the spill site to evaporate any remaining liquid and dispel vapour.
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
6.Disposal
6.1Pre-Treatment
• Neutralise empty peroxide containers by thoroughly washing out with water.
• Labels on empty supply containers must be removed or fully obliterated.
6.2 Disposal method
The washings, containers and absorbent material can be disposed of as follows:
• The washings obtained from containers can be washed down the sewer using 20 parts
of water to 1 part of washings.
• Neutralised plastic supply containers must be rendered unusable by puncturing and
placing into general waste.
• Reagent bottles and other laboratory containers such as beakers should be further
rinsed with water, dried and stored for reuse.
• Dry absorbent material (in a sealed plastic bag) can be disposed of in general waste.
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Video 3: Disposal
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First aid
Technical
7. Fire and explosion hazard information
In case of fire with hydrogen peroxide present:
• Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use excess quantities of water from a protected
position. If safe to do so, remove undamaged containers from the fire area. Cool
containers with excess quantities of water and withdraw from area. Avoid getting water
inside containers as a violent reaction may occur. Contain fire control water for later
disposal if possible.
• Hazards from Combustion Products: Hydrogen peroxide is non-combustible.
However, contact with combustible materials may result in a fire which burns more
fiercely.
• Specific Hazards: Risk of explosion, fire or ignition with concentrated solutions.
Heating can cause expansion or decomposition leading to violent rupture of containers.
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
First
First aid
aid
Technical
8. First aid procedures
The following steps must be taken to apply first aid to required areas when in contact with
hydrogen peroxide:
• Inhalation: Remove the source of contamination or move the victim to a well ventilated
area - avoid becoming a casualty. Ensure airways are clear and have a qualified
person administer oxygen through a face mask if breathing is difficult. SEEK MEDICAL
ATTENTION.
• Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting. Wash out mouth with large amounts of water.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
• Skin: Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated
clothing and wash before re-use or discard. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
• Eye: If in contact with the eye(s), hold eyelids apart and flush the eye, wash with
copious amounts of water continuously. Take care not to rinse contaminated water
into the non-affected eye. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes or until advised
to stop by the Poisons Information Centre or a doctor. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
IMMEDIATELY.
• First Aid Facilities Required: Eye wash station, safety shower and normal washroom
facilities.
• Advice to Doctor: Treat symptomatically. For advice call Poisons Information Centre
below.
Emergency contacts
• Poisons Information Centre: 131 126
• Australian Emergency Services: 000
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Laboratory Chemical Handling Manual
Safe Handling & Storage of Hydrogen Peroxide
METHOD C501
Intent
Description
Use
Storage
Spill
Disposal
Hazard
Technical
Technical
First aid
9. Technical information
Figure 7: Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide chemical and physical information
Molecular Formula
H2O2
Appearance
Very light blue colour; colourless in solution.
Melting Point
-26 °C
Boiling Point
107 °C
Solubility in Water
Soluble in all proportions.
Specific Gravity
1.1
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Hydrogen peroxide chemical and physical information
Flash Point
N/A
Stability
Potential for exothermic hazard.
Incompatible Materials
Acids, bases, metals, salts of metals, reducing agents,
organic materials, flammable materials. Keep away from
cyanides, hexavalent chrome compounds, heavy metals,
nitric acid, glycerin, hydrazine, alcohol, organics, carbon,
oil, resins and other combustible materials.
Hazardous Polymerisation
Will not occur.
Hazardous Reactions
Contamination of hydrogen peroxide from any source,
including metals, may cause rapid decomposition, with
generation of large quantities of oxygen gas and high
pressures. Rapid decomposition may cause containers
to rupture explosively. Contact with wood or paper may
produce spontaneous combustion. Liquid may attack
some plastics, rubber and coatings. Hydrogen peroxide is
rapidly decomposed by alkalis and finely divided metals.
Hazardous Decomposition Products
Releases oxygen gas, which will increase explosive limits
and burning rates of flammable vapours and may lead to
rupturing of containers
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The following controls are used by TMR to minimise risks when handling hydrogen peroxide:
Current Transport and Main Roads controls
Engineering Controls / Ventilation
Fume Cupboard complying with AS 1807 and AS 2243.
Safe Work Procedures
As per this technique/MSDS.
First Aid Facilities
Eyewash station, safety shower and normal washroom
facilities.
Spill Procedures
Refer to Sections 5.2 and 5.3.
Waste Disposal Procedures
Refer to Section 6.
Fire/Explosion Hazard
Refer to Section 7.
Administrative Controls
Nil
PPE
Refer to Section 5.1.
Emergency Procedures
Phone 1800 638 556
Training Provided
Assessed element of competency.
Previous Monitoring Results
Nil
Storage & Handling Requirements
Internally bunded chemical refrigerator/as per this
technique.
Monitoring Required
No
Health Surveillance Required
No
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