American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test

In the event of a chemical exposure, rinsing the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes and seeking medical attention is the appropriate and necessary action. This immediate response is critical to minimize damage caused by the chemical and prevent further injury. Water helps to dilute and wash away the irritant or harmful substance, reducing its concentration and impact on the skin or mucous membranes.

Seeking medical attention after rinsing ensures that a healthcare professional can evaluate any potential harm caused by the exposure and provide further treatment if necessary. This step is vital, as certain chemical exposures can have delayed effects or lead to more severe health complications over time.

Addressing the other options, applying ointment and continuing to work risks exacerbating the injury and delaying proper treatment, possibly leading to serious health issues. Ignoring the exposure while simply monitoring symptoms can allow harm to progress unnoticed, leading to potentially severe consequences. Lastly, while notifying a manager is important for procedural safety and documentation, immediately addressing the health impact through rinsing and professional medical advice is the priority in any exposure event.