The loader only knew that the hydrofluoric acid
On November 21 last year, 47-year-old Mr. Liu from Changchun started working as a loader at a logistics company on Yatai North Street, earning 2,500 yuan per month. Just two days into the job, he suffered a severe chemical burn that left four of his fingers permanently damaged.
It happened when he and another worker were unloading cargo from a large trailer. Among the items were plastic buckets, wooden boxes, and other containers. While handling one of the plastic buckets, he noticed wet gloves and smelled a sour odor. When he asked the workers what was inside, they remained silent and continued unloading. He didn’t think much of it at the time.
However, by 4 p.m., he began to feel intense pain in his hands. He tried washing them with cold water, but the pain persisted. By 8 p.m., he was rushed to Changchun Burn Hospital for treatment. At first, the medical staff couldn't identify the substance, but later, after contacting the company’s headquarters in Shandong, they discovered it was hydrofluoric acid—a highly toxic and corrosive chemical.
Mr. Liu was hospitalized for a month, underwent two surgeries, and spent over 10,000 yuan on medical expenses, which were covered by the logistics company. Despite this, he still faces long-term recovery challenges. His fingers are now stiff and difficult to move, and he needs ongoing treatment. A judicial appraisal has been conducted, and he is currently consulting a lawyer to prepare for legal action.
The logistics company, Zibo Hongliang Logistics Changchun Branch, refused to provide compensation beyond 5,000 yuan plus one month’s salary, which Mr. Liu found unacceptable. The company claims it is only a branch, and all decisions are made by the head office in Shandong. However, the issue remains unresolved, and the family is now considering filing a lawsuit.
According to local safety authorities in Kuancheng District, transporting hazardous chemicals requires proper licensing, trained personnel, and specialized vehicles. Under China’s “Regulations on the Administration of Hazardous Chemicals Safety,†companies must obtain transport permits, register with industrial and commercial departments, and ensure that all staff involved in handling such materials have the necessary qualifications.
Hydrofluoric acid, known as hydrogen fluoride solution, is classified as a dangerous chemical (danger number 81016). It is colorless, transparent, and emits a strong, pungent odor. It is extremely corrosive, capable of burning skin, damaging metal, and even penetrating deep into tissues. Inhalation of its vapors can lead to severe, often irreversible injuries.
This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols in the transportation of hazardous materials. Companies must ensure that their workers are properly trained and equipped to handle such substances safely. In this case, the lack of clear labeling and proper training led to a serious accident that could have been prevented.
As Mr. Liu continues his recovery, he remains determined to seek justice through legal channels. His story serves as a warning about the dangers of mishandling hazardous chemicals and the need for better oversight in the logistics industry.
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