Lauric acid is the main type of acid found in oil from coconuts. As with other acids found in food products, it's generally safe in small quantities, but exposure to concentrated forms can be hazardous. It's important to know the potential dangers, as well as treat or control any possible side effects associated with working with or around lauric acid. The proper precautions can prevent harm or damage to people and buildings.
Eye Irritation
Lauric acid can cause burning and irritation if it gets in the eyes. If lauric acid gets in your eyes, remove contacts, if necessary, and rinse the eyes with water. Seek transportation to the emergency room immediately after exposure, but do not attempt to drive yourself. If necessary, call for an ambulance to convey you.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation is common with exposure to lauric acid. Remove all contaminated clothing as soon as exposure occurs. Rinse the affected area of skin under running water and scrub it with a non-exfoliating soap. Pay extra attention to deep wrinkles or folds in the skin to ensure all the acid gets washed away. Pat the skin dry and apply a deep moisturizer. Seek medical attention only if irritation worsens or persists after 24 hours.
Respiratory Problems
Lauric acid, when inhaled, can cause respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing or pain in the lungs. Move to a well-ventilated area and sit down as soon as inhalation occurs. Focus on breathing at a normal rate until the breathing returns to normal. If breathing is halting, or if trouble breathing persists longer than several minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion
Lauric acid ingestion can cause nausea and vomiting. Remove all tight clothing, such as belts, snug pants or snug collared shirts immediately after ingestion. In severe cases, ingestion can cause you to stop breathing, a condition that must be treated with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and a prompt call to 911. Regardless of how severe the reaction is, medical treatment is important after lauric acid ingestion.
Water Pollutant
Lauric acid may be dangerous to human, animal and plant life if it seeps into water systems. Notify the local health and wildlife offices if this problem occurs. If water intakes are nearby, notify the operators of the intakes as well.
Flammability
Lauric acid may be combustible at high temperatures, typically 230 degrees Fahrenheit and above. Small fires can be controlled by smothering the flames with a dry chemical powder. Large fires can be controlled with water spray, alcohol foam or a Class B fire extinguisher. Call the nearest fire department or 911 if there is any doubt about whether you can control the fire on your own.
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