Beryllium was first isolated as a relatively pure metal when investigators heated solid beryllium chloride with solid potassium.

a) Predict the products of this reaction in a balanced equation; also indicate what type of reaction this is.

b) Beryllium chloride is still used in the production of beryllium. However, it can cause lung cancer if small particles of the compound are inhaled, it can also damage skin with repeated contact. Another danger of working with this compound is that it reacts with the water in the air to produce hydrochloric acid, which is highly corrosive. Suggest at least three different safety precautions that would be needed in the industrial storage and use of this substance.