This paper will describe general strategies for formulating low hazard inhibitors used for inhibiting hydrochloric acid and organic acid-based cleaning solutions. The formulations have been modified to exhibit reduced flammability, corrosivity and toxicity compared with previous materials. Additional details will be presented that will describe the development and testing of a new low hazard inhibitor (NLHI) for protecting steel exposed to organic acid and chelating agent cleaning solvents. Keywords: inhibitor, quat, acid, chelating agents