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How to Train to Do an Eye Wash

The OSHA Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) state that emergency eye wash equipment or fountains (eyewash) are used to drench or flush the eyes with water when dust, irritants or chemicals enter the eye. OSHA is the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

  1. Know the 15-Minute Rule

    • The MSDS states that a chemical eye injury must be flushed with water for a minimum of "at least" 15 minutes; longer if the chemical involved was hydrofluoric acid. With acids, first aid treatment should not be delayed while the eyes are flushed out. Use tepid water, not cold; keep the eyes open and lift the upper and lower eyelids to ensure complete flushing.

    Know OSHA Standards for Protective Equipment

    • Wear OSHA-recommended chemical splash goggles. According to Flinn Scientific, chemical splash goggles should have a soft, pliable flange which seals around the eyes, like swim goggles, only wider and a bit thicker. Goggle venting should be indirect and have covers that prevent the straight passage of liquids.

    Understand ANSI Standards for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

    • The American National Standards Institute "oversees the creation, promulgation and use of thousands of norms and guidelines that directly impact businesses in nearly every sector." ANSI Z358.1-2004, "Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment," gives minimum standards for installing, testing, performance, maintenance and training regarding equipment and systems used for emergency treatment of a person exposed to chemical eye injury.

    Warning

    • Splash can happen even with goggles on, so it is important that the trainer know and understand the front line defenses for eye protection and safety, such as engineering (safety precautions) and administrative controls (company policies, procedures and supervision).

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