Acid etching graffiti poses a health risk
Graffiti vandalism known as "acid etching" is often found on glass bus shelters in Vancouver. Ingredients in glass etch cream are acidic, caustic and abrasive. Etch cream can cause deeply penetrating burns to the skin, eyes, and lungs. These chemical burns may be felt for hours after touching the product. People should avoid touching any etchings.
Anyone that comes into contact with the chemicals should seek immediate medical attention. For more detailed health information, contact the Poison Control Centre at 604-682-5050.
The City of Vancouver is working closely with CBS Outdoor to have affected bus shelter glass replaced promptly. Should you see glass etching on bus shelters please report it to our Graffiti Hotline at 604-873-7161.
If you see someone writing graffiti (of any kind) call 911 and inform the dispatcher that you are witnessing a "mischief in progress." Close to 95% of this type of call results in an arrest.
More information about hydrofluoric acid used by graffiti writers
Scenario
An emergency responder attempts to give first aid to a youth in severe pain from burns to his hip and leg. An object in the victim's pocket bursts open and splashes hydrofluoric (HF) acid on the responder's hands. The responder suffers severe burns as a result.
The above scenario hasn't happened yet; but, it could occur at any time! Graffiti writers have been using Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) to burn their "tags" into glass surfaces. In most cases, the etching acid (containing the hydrofluoric acid and other harmful substances) is transferred into empty bingo dabbers. These tubes may leak acid during use, or tubes may burst in a pocket. Individuals at risk include graffiti writers themselves (or others in contact with them, including police, emergency personnel, parents, and siblings).
Property damage caused by hydrofluoric acid contained in glass etching cream can be considerable, and anyone who tries to clean HF of a glass could get severe bums.
What is hydrofluoric acid?
Hydrofluoric acid is a chemical agent used by workers in many industrial situations. It is used in the dry-cleaning industry as a cleaning agent. It is used as a descaler product, a rust remover, a metal cleaner, as an etching and metal plating compound, and for many other applications. It is often used as part of a mix with other chemicals. People who use agents that contain HF are often not aware of the potential hazards associated with this acid. These hazards can range from burns to major respiratory problems. HF solutions can cause chemical burns to the skin and eyes on contact. Inhalation of HF gas or a mist containing HF can cause severe respiratory irritation or, sometimes, permanent lung damage. If HF is absorbed into the skin, the results can be serious, even fatal. The HF exposure signs may not be immediate; if HF is diluted with other substances the onset of the symptom may be delayed.
Why is hydrofluoric acid different from other acids?
Like other acids, hydrofluoric acid is very corrosive and can burn skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. HF contains fluoride ion and will easily penetrate the skin and destroy deep tissue layers. This process of destruction can continue for many days until the fluoride ion is used up. Remember, you can get burned by the acid or the acid vapours!
Do not attempt to wipe off the damage, as residual HF may still be present!
HF will continue to etch the glass or metal until all of the fluoride is used up. Before the glass is touched or removed, the damaged area should be washed with copious amounts of water.
What do I do if I get burned with hydrofluoric acid?
As mentioned above, it is best to contact:
Poison Control Centre: 604-682-5050
If unable to do so, the initial first aid treatment for hydrofluoric acid skin burns is similar to that used for other acids - rinse with copious amounts of water, as quickly as possible. However, HF bums must also be treated by applying Calcium Gluconate (2.5%) gel, which can help neutralize the fluoride ions. You should see a doctor a soon as possible, if burned with HF. Remember, HF will continue to burn into your skin, even if you think you have washed it off.
If you get HF in your eyes, immediately rinse with copious amounts of water or saline solution. Consult a physician and an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. Serious burns may require significant medical treatment. If the burned area is large, the victim should be transported to hospital, immediately! Emergency response personnel (fire fighters or paramedics) should be told that the burns were caused by HF.
How do you clean glass damaged by hydrofluoric acid?
Hydrofluoric acid actually etches the glass and the damage is permanent. A few professional graffiti removal and glass repair companies can reduce the etching so the glass can still be useable. Several graffiti removal companies also offer anti acid-etching coating to protect the glass from acid damage.
Check our Professional Graffiti Removal Company section to find out which company offers this service.
The City of Vancouver can also help you with the cost of repair. We offer up to $250 twice a year for the repair or replacement of acid etched glass.
For more information please contact:
Daniel Paquin
Graffiti Management Program
604-871-6300