Substances

Sodium hypochlorite

Also called bleach, hypochlorite solution, chlorine bleach.

The active ingredient in household and industrial bleach. Corrosive to skin and eyes at typical concentrations and releases chlorine gas if mixed with acids. Classification depends on available chlorine concentration; check the data sheet for the product you use.

Last reviewed 8 September 2026

Hazard data from the HSE GB MCL, the ECHA C&L Inventory and HSE EH40, checked 8 September 2026. Classification checked automatically against the HSE GB mandatory classification list (version 8) and the ECHA C&L inventory on 9 September 2026. Confirm the concentration and form against the supplier data sheet for the product you use.

Identification

CAS number7681-52-9
EC number231-668-3
Physical formliquid
Signal wordDANGER
PictogramsGHS05 Corrosive; GHS09 Hazardous to the environment
Routes of exposureskin, eyes, inhalation, ingestion

Hazard classification

Harmonised classification from the GB mandatory classification list (index 017-011-00-1), with supplier self-classifications marked. The harmonised entry covers sodium hypochlorite solution and depends on available chlorine. EUH031 applies at 5% or more. Many suppliers add H290 (corrosive to metals).

  • Skin corrosion, category 1B
  • Serious eye damage, category 1
  • Corrosive to metals, category 1 (supplier classification)
  • Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute category 1
  • Hazardous to the aquatic environment, chronic category 1

Hazard statements

  • H290 May be corrosive to metals. (supplier classification)
  • H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
  • H318 Causes serious eye damage.
  • H400 Very toxic to aquatic life.
  • H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
  • EUH031 Contact with acids liberates toxic gas.

Workplace exposure limit

No workplace exposure limit is listed in EH40/2005. Exposure must still be reduced as low as is reasonably practicable and adequately controlled.

Products that contain it

Common products whose hazard data comes from this record. The concentration and form vary, so always check the product data sheet.

  • Domestos Original Thick Bleach (Domestos (Unilever)). Around 5% sodium hypochlorite. Corrosive; releases chlorine if mixed with acids.
  • Parozone Thick Bleach (Parozone (Jeyes)). Thick bleach, similar strength to other household bleaches.
  • Own brand thick bleach (Supermarket own brand). Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and similar. Check the label for the concentration.
  • Milton Sterilising Fluid (Milton). Dilute hypochlorite (about 2%). Lower hazard than thick bleach but still keep away from acids.
  • Chlorine granules (NaDCC) (Various (Haz-Tabs, Presept and similar)). Sodium dichloroisocyanurate tablets or granules release chlorine in water. Hazards close to hypochlorite; the solid is also an oxidiser. Check the product data sheet.

Common uses

  • Surface disinfection
  • Toilet and drain cleaning
  • Laundry

First aid

Skin: remove contaminated clothing and rinse with plenty of water. Eyes: rinse for at least 15 minutes and get medical attention. Swallowed: rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting, call NHS 111.

In an emergency call 999. For advice call NHS 111. Always follow section 4 of the safety data sheet for the product you have.

Storage

Cool, dark, ventilated, closed container, away from acids and ammonia. Degrades in heat and light.

Sources

We do not host or copy manufacturer safety data sheets. Ask your supplier for the current sheet for the product you use.