Eye Wash Safety

Chemicals and corrosive substances are frequently found in the workplace and can pose safety risks if handled improperly. One of the most serious dangers occurs when chemicals splash into the eyes. Agencies such as OSHA and ANSI mandate the use of eye wash safety stations in order to limit this danger.

Purpose

• Eye wash stations are designed to quickly clear chemicals away from the face. Safety standards regulate the placement of eye wash stations to ensure that access is always open.

Location

• In order to be effective, eye wash safety stations must be located no further than a 10-second walking distance from the chemical source. Additionally, the path leading to the station must be clear of obstacles and properly lit.

Requirements

• The eye wash flushing liquid should be at a lukewarm temperature. The eye wash station should be able to maintain at least 15 minutes of constant flow for use in an emergency.

Activation

• Eye wash safety stations should be simple to activate with one motion. Once activated, the station should continue to operate hands-free automatically.

Training

• All workers who might be exposed to chemicals should be properly trained in the use of eye wash stations. Safety rules should be reviewed periodically in order to be followed properly in an emergency.