Read this before you start using etching liquid or etching paste, you are using an extremely toxic substance with potentially catastrophic health issues - this stuff can kill you even at low concentrations, dont listen to anybody that says they've been using it for years with no problems, just one accidental spill on your body or in your eyes can actually kill you if not treated correctly and very quickly.
we've been talking about this on the Aussie forum and i'll have to admit i was clueless, i had no idea how dangerous etching solution is, and considering how strict you guys are about ventilation, i was really surprised that i could only find two small comments here in the safety section on the dangers.
Heres a link from Monash University courtesy of Nicole in Aus
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/...-fatality.html
here is the link to the full thread, in particular you should read what Kerry from Affordable inspiration wrote and also Bev's scary experience
http://www.glassbeadmakers.net/forum...hp?f=14&t=6844
More information
Material Safety Data Sheet HYDROFLUORIC ACID
http://www.kendon.com.au/Catalogue/M...luoricacid.htm
Material Safety Data Sheet AMMONIUM BIFLOURIDE
http://www.hillbrothers.com/msds/pdf...bifluoride.pdf