A DRUM which contained dangerous acids that can cause severe burns has washed up on a public beach.

The container which says it holds hydrofluoric and sulphuric acid is classed as hazardous waste and is supposed to be disposed of properly.

But it was stumbled upon by a walker on Chesil beach, Portland.

It is not thought the container is full but there could still be residue inside.

If it comes in to contact with skin, hydrofluoric acid is corrosive and can cause severe burns and if absorbed in to the blood can cause cardiac arrest.

Paul Hunn, who came across the container and used to work for a company which dealt with such substances, said he was 'very shocked' to find it.

"It was well known by everyone worked with that it was very dangerous," he said.

"Anyone who routinely worked in close proximity with it would carry calcium gluconate to treat any burns and would have to wear specially resistant PPE.

It can take a number of hours before an exposure becomes apparent making it even more dangerous."

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council says it was working with the relevant agencies but the container is not a significant danger to the public.

Cllr Mike Goodman, briefholder for Community Safety said yesterday: “We are aware that some containers have been discovered on Chesil Beach.

“We are working with the relevant agencies to get the containers, which are thought to be of low risk to public health, removed from the beach today.”

But wildlife campaigners say the incident highlights how little sanction there is on what is being dumped in to the sea.

Steve Trewhella said marine species that may be eaten by consumers comes in to contact with or eat toxic marine litter.

"The shipping and marine industry is using the sea as a skip," he said.

"These chemicals are extremely dangerous and if you were to inhale them you wouldn't make it off the beach.

"Toxic marine litter is a growing problem and no government agencies seem to care."

He said it should not be up to voluntary groups to clean the beaches and said proper measures should be put in place by local authorities.