05 Jun Emergency Eyewash and Safety Showers

Emergency Eyewash and Safety Showers

Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers provide immediate flushing when employees are exposed to corrosive or other hazardous materials that can injure the eyes or body. When a chemical splash occurs, immediate and continuous flushing can significantly reduce the severity of the injury. Employees who work with hazardous chemicals should know where emergency equipment is located and how to use it before an emergency occurs.

When Emergency Eyewash or Shower Equipment Is Required

Emergency flushing equipment must be provided where employees’ eyes or bodies may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials. The equipment must be located within the work area for immediate emergency use.

Review the chemical’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and container label to identify hazards and appropriate first-aid measures. Particular attention should be given to chemicals identified as corrosive or capable of causing severe eye damage or skin burns.

Depending on the exposure hazard, appropriate equipment may include an eyewash station, safety shower, or combination eyewash/shower.

Location and Accessibility

Emergency eyewash and shower equipment must be readily accessible. Seconds matter following a chemical exposure.

• Keep the route to the equipment clear and unobstructed at all times.
• Do not store boxes, equipment, tools, or materials in front of an eyewash or shower.
• Clearly identify emergency equipment with highly visible signs.
• Employees should be able to reach the equipment quickly without encountering unnecessary obstacles.
• Equipment should be located so an injured employee can reach and operate it without assistance whenever possible.
• Employees should know the location of the nearest eyewash and safety shower before beginning work with hazardous chemicals.

Inspection and Maintenance

Emergency equipment must be maintained in a clean, sanitary, and operable condition.

• Inspect and activate equipment at the required frequency to verify proper operation.
• Ensure adequate flushing-fluid flow is available.
• Keep spray heads and protective covers clean.
• Check equipment for leaks, damage, contamination, or blocked flow.
• Maintain self-contained and portable units according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Replace or treat flushing solution as required by the manufacturer.
• Correct deficiencies promptly and do not allow emergency equipment to become blocked or inaccessible.

If a Chemical Enters the Eyes

Take action immediately. Do not delay flushing while looking for a supervisor, SDS, or medical assistance.

1. Go immediately to the eyewash station and activate it.
2. Hold the eyelids open with your fingers so the flushing fluid can reach the entire eye.
3. Flush both eyes thoroughly, rolling the eyes to help rinse beneath the eyelids.
4. Remove contact lenses during flushing when they can be removed easily. Do not delay irrigation to remove them.
5. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes or for the period specified by the SDS or medical guidance.
6. Do not rub the eyes or attempt to neutralize the chemical with another chemical.
7. Obtain medical evaluation following the exposure as required by the chemical involved and company procedures.

If a Chemical Contacts the Body

Immediately use the safety shower when a hazardous chemical has contaminated the body or clothing and requires emergency flushing.

• Activate the shower immediately.
• Remove contaminated clothing, shoes, and PPE while flushing when necessary to remove the chemical from the skin.
• Flush affected areas thoroughly for the period specified by the SDS or emergency procedures.
• Do not apply neutralizing chemicals unless specifically directed by appropriate medical or chemical-response procedures.
• Obtain appropriate medical attention.

Employee Training

Employees exposed to hazardous chemicals should be trained to:

• Recognize chemicals that could require emergency flushing.
• Locate the nearest eyewash and safety shower.
• Activate and properly use the equipment.
• Begin flushing immediately following exposure.
• Know the appropriate flushing duration.
• Understand applicable SDS first-aid instructions.
• Report exposures and obtain appropriate medical evaluation.

Remember

An emergency eyewash or safety shower cannot protect you if it is blocked, contaminated, or not working. Know where the equipment is located, keep access clear, and begin flushing immediately following a chemical exposure.