Copper sulphate is a fairly stable compound which means itdoes not readily react with other substances. It is not flammable orcombustible. But it is an environmental pollutant and must be carefullyincorporated when used in its varied applications.
Initial exposure to Copper Sulphate causes irritation ofeyes, nasal passages, and skin. The skin irritation involves itchiness andredness. Upon initial inhalation coughing and difficulty in breathing occurs.The substance is also a gastrointestinal tract irritant. It causes vomiting,nausea, abdominal pain and cramps, loose bowel movement, and a metallic taste.At large doses of accidental intake renal failure, comatose and even death canoccur. Long term exposure to Copper Sulphate may lead to liver damage, lungdiseases, and decreased female fertility.
Copper occurs naturally in the soil and water. Its presencein minute concentrations is necessary for plant and animal growth. But at highconcentrations copper and its compounds may pose some threat. Decreasedlifespan, problems in reproduction, decreased fertility, and alteration ofbehavior and appearance are seen in animals, birds, fishes, and plants that areexposed to Copper Sulphate. This environmental pollutant may find its coursefrom one organism to another in what is called bioaccumulation orbiomagnification.
Proper handling of Copper Sulphate is therefore required toavoid negative effects that may accompany otherwise.
1. The storage must be in cool, dry area with sufficientventilation. Alkalis, magnesium, ammonia, acetylene, and sodium hypobromite aresome of the substances Copper Sulphate cannot be kept with. The container mustbe kept tightly closed. Carefully wash hands after using the compound and mostespecially before eating or drinking.
2. Wear protective clothing, impermeable gloves, and rubberboots to avoid skin contact. Eye protectors like goggles should be worn too.
3. Working areas must be well aerated. This avoids fumes ormists of Copper Sulphate to accumulate in one area.
4. If possible protective masks should be worn to avoidinhalation.
5. Disposal of copper wastes into waterways is a violation.High concentrations of copper in rivers and streams are toxic to aquaticecosystems.
The followingmeasures may be done in case of contact:
1. In case of eye contact, flush the affected eye right awaywith gently running lukewarm water for about 20 minutes. Hold the eyelids open.Make sure the water is clean. If the affected person wears a contact lens, donot hesitate removing it. Seek medical help.
2. In case of contact with skin, the contaminated clothes,pants, shoes, etc. must be removed. Gently wash the area in clean, lukewarmrunning water for five minutes. Get medical help fast.
3. In case of accidental inhalation, remove the victim fromthe area into open air and then seek medical assistance.
4. If a person has ingested Copper Sulphate, allow thevictim to drink 60 to 240ml of water. The victim may vomit. This is the naturalway of the body to eliminate the foreign substance. Rinse his mouth with water.However, never force the victim to drink water if unconscious.
Spillages of Copper Sulphate are health hazards. The areamust be isolated and any attempt of entry by unauthorized and unprotectedpersons should not be permitted. Small spills may be mopped and wiped off.Large volumes of spilled Copper Sulphate can be neutralized with sodiumcarbonate or soda ash. Properly dispose the waste materials after.Contamination of this substance in the ground, streams, and sewers must beprevented. The substance is a known pollutant at certain levels.
