Philosophy and the General Problem

An approach applicable to any scale of operation is to recognize not only direct hazards due to the explosivity of explosive azides, but also the indirect hazards resulting mainly from hydrolysis. Hydrolysis gives hydrazoic acid, HN3, a toxic substance which is physiologically very active and is also the medium by which very sensitive heavy-metal azides, most notably copper azide, can be formed. 

It is prudent to assume that sensitive material will explode at some time, but that one cannot predict when, and to plan experiments accordingly. It is thus necessary to adopt the practice of minimizing quantities, use distance or space between personnel and samples as well as protective barriers, avoid working with primary and high explosives in the same place, and in general practice good housekeeping. 

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