Hokkaido University graduate student dies in hydrofluoric acid accident

A graduate student at Hokkaido University died after being splashed with hydrofluoric acid on the morning of August 27 at the Faculty of Science building in Sapporo. Two other students, one graduate and one undergraduate, sustained minor injuries while attempting to rescue the victim and were subsequently released from the hospital.

Hokkaido University issued a statement expressing deep regret over the loss of life, noting that such a tragic accident should not occur in an environment meant for safe education and research. The university is currently working with relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the incident.

While initial reports suggested the accident occurred during an active experiment, the university clarified that no experiments were being conducted at the time of the splash. Police and fire departments have conducted chemical testing and decontamination at the site. Investigations are ongoing regarding the storage, usage records, and safety equipment related to the highly toxic chemical.