Can Sodium Hypochlorite use as a disinfectant? Sodium hypochlorite, also known as bleach, is most frequently used as a disinfecting agent. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is a compound that can be effectively used for water purification and also used in large scale for surface purification, bleaching, water disinfection etc. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is the most widely used disinfectant in the food industry despite the increasing availability of other disinfectants. Sodium hypochlorite fulfills many requirements as the ideal disinfectant and furthermore it has an excellent cleaning agent. Characteristics of Hypo Chlorite • • • •
Sodium hypochlorite is a clear slightly yellowish solution with a characteristic odor. Sodium hypochlorite is unstable Sodium hypochlorite solution is a weak base that is inflammable. As a bleaching agent for domestic use it usually contains 5% sodium hypochlorite
Applications of sodium hypochlorite Sodium hypochlorite is used on a large scale. For example, in agriculture, chemical industries, paint- and lime industries, food industries, glass industries, paper industries, pharmaceutical industries, synthetics industries and waste disposal industries. In the textile industry sodium hypochlorite is used to bleach textile. In the textile industry sodium hypochlorite is used to bleach textile. In water treatment, hypochlorite is used to disinfect water. In households, hypochlorite is used frequently for the purification and disinfection of the house. Sodium Hypochlorite Hazards/Precautions • •
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Never mix Sodium Hypochlorite and Ammonia it will produce a dangerous gas potentially leading to choking and breathing difficulty. Avoid swallowing and getting sodium hypochlorite in the eyes or on the skin. Skin or eyes should be immediately flushed continuously and thoroughly if coming into contact with sodium hypochlorite. In case of inhalation of sodium hypochlorite, leave the affected area and seek fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and seek immediate medical attention.
Protective Equipment’s to be worn while preparing or handling a sodium hypochlorite solution: • • • •
Nitrile Rubber Gloves Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Approved Safety Glasses Respiratory protection (NIOSH Approved) should be used any time there is the potential for exposure to vapor and/or dust and a fume hood cannot be used. Lab coat.