Editing Phosphorus (section)

===External contact===
{{NFPA 704
 | H          = 4
 | F          = 4
 | I          = 2
 | S          = -
 | ref        =
 | showimage  =
 | background =
 | caption = White phosphorus fire diamond
}}
{{NFPA 704
 | H          = 1
 | F          = 1
 | I          = 1
 | S          = -
 | ref        =
 | showimage  =
 | background =
 | caption = Red phosphorus fire diamond
}}
Elemental phosphorus poses by far the greatest danger in its white form, red phosphorus being relatively nontoxic.{{r|PublicHealthEngland}} In the past, external exposure to white phosphorus was treated by washing the affected area with 2% [[copper(II) sulfate]] solution to form harmless compounds that are then washed away. According to 2009 [[United States Navy]] guidelines:{{r|USNavy}}
{{blockquote|Cupric (copper) sulfate has been used by U.S. personnel in the past and is still being used by some nations. However, copper sulfate is toxic and its use will be discontinued. Copper sulfate may produce kidney and cerebral toxicity as well as [[intravascular hemolysis]].}}
Instead, the manual suggests:
{{blockquote|[...] a bicarbonate solution to neutralise phosphoric acid, which will then allow removal of visible white phosphorus. Particles often can be located by their emission of smoke when air strikes them, or by their phosphorescence in the dark. In dark surroundings, fragments are seen as luminescent spots. Promptly [[Debridement|debride]] the burn if the patient's condition will permit removal of bits of WP (white phosphorus) that might be absorbed later and possibly produce systemic poisoning. DO NOT apply oily-based [[Topical medication#Ointment|ointments]] until it is certain that all WP has been removed. Following complete removal of the particles, treat the lesions as thermal burns.}}