First Aid: Emergency Eye Wash
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.151(c) requires that “suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.” Additionally, we know that 29 CFR 1910.1030 touches on flushing eyes in the case of contact with bloodborne pathogens (BBPs). What these standards do not specify, is the format and nature of these emergency eyewash stations.
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 is where we turn to gain some guidance on how and when these stations should be implemented. While this standard covers multiple emergency washing scenarios, today we are going to focus in on just the eyewash portion of the requirements. According to this standard, emergency eyewashes should have controlled velocity and quantity of the flushing liquid. Additionally, the operation of the on/off valve should be simple and able to change from “off” to “on” in 1 second or less.
The fluid being dispensed from an eyewash station is required by ANSI to be tepid. ANSI also requires that stations and showers should be “highly visible” and in locations which would take a person no more than 10 seconds to reach.
So what does this mean when you are shopping for your emergency eyewash stations? First, it is useful to take a look at ANSI compliance. When you see that an eyewash station meets the ANSI Z358.1 standard, you know it meets all of the expectations listed above (and all other details noted in the full standard), saving you some time. Additionally, it would be beneficial to consider how to ensure your stations are visible per the standards required. Signage is a useful way to make sure that anyone who may need it in an emergency is aware of where to find the station.
Emergency eyewash stations may not be present in all workplaces, but where they are needed there can be no room for error. Be sure to review your eyewash needs and feel free to reach out to 919-602-2503 or marketing@safetypackonline.com with any questions!
Resources:
- OSHA, "Emergency eyewash requirements for eye hazards caused by bloodborne pathogens": https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2020-11-06
- OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.151: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.151
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ANSI Z358.1-2014: Emergency Eyewash & Shower Standard Blog: https://blog.ansi.org/ansi/ansi-z358-1-emergency-eyewash-station-shower/
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