What should you do if your skin comes into contact with a hazardous material?

When skin comes into contact with a hazardous material, it is crucial to wash the exposed area thoroughly. This action helps to remove the contaminant from the skin, thereby minimizing the risk of absorption into the body and reducing the likelihood of adverse health effects. Prompt and thorough washing with soap and water can prevent further irritation or injury and is a fundamental step in emergency response protocols.

In situations involving hazardous materials, relying on ointments or other topical treatments without first removing the contaminant can exacerbate the issue by trapping the hazardous substance against the skin. Ignoring the contact because there are no immediate visible effects can lead to delayed reactions, which may be more severe. Waiting for a supervisor's instruction could waste valuable time, increasing the risk of harm. Immediate action is necessary to ensure safety and health in these scenarios.