What should be done immediately when chemical substances come into contact with skin?

When chemical substances come into contact with the skin, the immediate and most effective response is to flush the area with water. This action helps to quickly dilute and remove the chemical substance from the skin, thereby minimizing skin damage and reducing the risk of further absorption into the body. The flushing action also aids in alleviating any irritation or pain caused by the chemical.

Using soap to wash the area is not recommended immediately, as it may not effectively remove the chemical and could potentially react with certain substances, worsening the situation. Applying a band-aid would also be inappropriate, as it would trap the chemical against the skin instead of removing it. Leaving the area alone could allow the chemical to cause more damage or irritation, increasing the risk of long-term effects. Therefore, the importance of flushing the affected area with copious amounts of water as the first line of response cannot be understated.