Occupational medicine in Oklahoma: hydrofluoric acid dangers.

Occupational Medicine is the study of the interaction of workers with their workplace and the workplace's effect on the workers' health. In addition, many workplaces have the potential to affect the community as a whole. Herein is reported a brief case of community-wide exposure to the powerful oxidant, hydrofluoric acid. A discussion of sources and uses of hydrofluoric acid along with emergent care of burn victims is also presented. Even as this paper was being prepared, a second toxic cloud (sulfuric acid) was released in the Tulsa area. Clearly physicians should be aware of potential environmental impacts of occupational hazards.