Division 3.3.2.2.4 F1

Likewise, pH extremes like ≤ 2 and ≥ 11,5, may indicate serious eye damage, especially when associated with significant acid/alkaline reserve (buffering capacity). Generally such substances are expected to produce significant effects on the eyes. In the absence of any other information, a substance is considered to cause serious eye damage (Category 1) if it has a pH ≤ 2 or ≥ 11,5. However, if consideration of acid/alkaline reserve suggests the substance may not cause serious eye damage despite the low or high pH value, this needs to be confirmed by other data, preferably by data from an appropriate validated in vitro test.