T59: Toxic effect of other gases, fumes and vapours

T59.5: Toxic effect: Fluorine gas and hydrogen fluoride

Fluorine gas and hydrogen fluoride are used in industry. They can harm the body if inhaled or your skin has come into contact with it.

Irritant gases can irritate the mucous membranes. If the mucous membranes in the respiratory airways are irritated, you can have shortness of breath and cough, for example. Water can accumulate in the lungs. This may result in restricted breathing and the circulation failing. In some cases, there is also permanent damage to the lungs. Being exposed to fluorine gas or hydrogen fluoride for a prolonged period of time can damage the bones. Ossifications may appear on the tendons and joints.