Chemical burns happen when acids, alkalis, solvents, pesticides or other corrosive substances touch the skin. They are common at work, but also at home with cleaning products. The damage continues for as long as the chemical stays on the skin, so the central rule of first aid is simple: remove the chemical and flush with water, quickly and for long enough. This guide covers skin contact; for splashes in the eyes see our guide to eye burn first aid.
Chemical Burns First Aid: 7 Steps
- Protect yourself. Wear chemical-resistant gloves and avoid contact with splashed clothing. Do not become the next casualty.
- Remove the person from the source and call for urgent help for anything but a minor splash.
- Brush off dry chemicals. Gently remove powder with a dry cloth or brush before adding water, then rinse.
- Take off contaminated clothing and jewellery while flushing, cutting clothing off rather than pulling it over the face.
- Flush with large amounts of cool running water for at least 20 minutes, using a safety shower or hose, and longer for alkalis such as cement or lime. Stop only when the person begins to shiver badly, and then keep them warm and continue to rinse the burned area.
- Do not search for an antidote or neutraliser. Delay causes further injury, and chemical reactions can produce heat. Water is the first aid.
- Cover loosely with a clean, dry, non-fluffy dressing and seek urgent medical help. Send the container or safety data sheet with the person.
Why Alkali Burns Can Be Worse
Alkalis such as lime, cement, caustic soda and drain cleaners penetrate deeper than most acids, so injuries can look mild at first and worsen over hours. Wet cement is a common cause in construction. Rinse thoroughly and seek medical review even when pain is slight.
Special Cases
- Hydrofluoric acid: flush as above and seek emergency care at once, because it can cause deep tissue damage and heart rhythm problems. Special gels may be used by trained staff.
- Phenol and some solvents: follow the safety data sheet and poison centre advice, but still start with water unless the sheet says otherwise.
- Pesticides and chemicals absorbed through the skin: remove clothing, wash the skin well with soap and water, and watch for symptoms such as sweating, nausea, muscle twitching or breathing difficulty, which need an ambulance.
- Molten or hot substances: follow molten substance burns first aid.
When Chemical Burns Need an Ambulance
Call the emergency number if the burn is large, deep, on the face, hands, feet, genitals or a joint, if the chemical is unknown or highly hazardous, if the person has trouble breathing, or if symptoms develop after absorption. Cover the person, follow the DRABC primary survey if they collapse and treat shock.
Preventing Chemical Burns at Work
Use the right gloves, aprons and face protection, store chemicals in labelled containers, keep safety data sheets accessible and place emergency showers and eyewash stations close to chemical handling areas. Test them weekly, keep the path clear and train staff in chemical burns first aid. Our burn assessment guide helps you judge severity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use vinegar or baking soda on a chemical burn?
No. Neutralising agents can generate heat and delay rinsing. Use plenty of water.
How long should I flush chemical burns?
At least 20 minutes, and longer for alkalis or if pain continues.
Can I use a wet cloth instead of running water?
No. A wet cloth leaves the chemical on the skin. Use continuous running water.
References and Further Reading
Last updated: November 2026
Prepared by: EHS Guidelines Editorial Team
This article is general educational information and is not a substitute for accredited first aid training or professional medical care. In an emergency, call your local emergency number immediately. Emergency numbers, medicines and protocols differ between countries, so follow local guidance.
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