2013 Maryland Code
HEALTH - GENERAL
§ 22-202 - Caustic or corrosive substances

§22-202.

(a) (1) In this section, “caustic or corrosive substance” means:

(i) Hypochlorous acid, either free or combined, and any compound or mixture that contains hypochlorous acid in a concentration so as to yield 10 percent or more by weight of available chlorine;

(ii) Potassium hydroxide and any compound or mixture that contains, in a concentration of 10 percent or more, free or chemically unneutralized potassium hydroxide, including caustic potash and vienna paste;

(iii) Sodium hydroxide and any compound or mixture that contains, in a concentration of 10 percent or more, free or chemically unneutralized sodium hydroxide, including caustic soda and lye; or

(iv) Ammonia water and any compound or mixture that yields, in a concentration of 5 percent or more, free or chemically uncombined ammonia, including ammonium hydroxide and hartshorn.

(2) In this section, “caustic or corrosive substance” does not include:

(i) Calx chlorinata;

(ii) Bleaching powder; or

(iii) Chloride of lime.

(b) A person may not sell, exchange, receive, hold, pack, or display or offer for sale or exchange any caustic or corrosive substance for household use unless the container of the caustic or corrosive substance meets the labeling requirements of subsection (c) of this section.

(c) In addition to any other requirement of law, the container of any caustic or corrosive substance shall bear a plainly written, conspicuous label that includes:

(1) The common name of the caustic or corrosive substance;

(2) The name and business address of the manufacturer, packer, seller, or distributor;

(3) Directions for treatment in case of accidental personal injury from the caustic or corrosive substance, except on shipping containers used for shipment by manufacturers or wholesalers for other than household use; and

(4) The word “Poison”:

(i) Parallel with the main body of print on the label;

(ii) On a plain, clear background of a distinctly contrasting color; and

(iii) Printed in uncondensed gothic capital letters of a size that is:

1. Not less than 24 point; or

2. If there is no other print that is 24 point or larger, not smaller than the largest type on the label.

(d) A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $100.