21 Feb How to Use an Eyewash

How to Use an Eyewash

Chemical splashes and other eye exposures require immediate action. Knowing where the emergency eyewash is located and how to use it before an emergency occurs can help prevent permanent eye damage.

Where employees may be exposed to corrosive materials that could injure the eyes or body, OSHA requires suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing to be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.

Before an Emergency Happens

Do not wait for an exposure to learn how to use the eyewash.

• Know the location of the nearest emergency eyewash.
• Keep the route to the eyewash clear and unobstructed at all times.
• Know how to activate the unit quickly.
• Ensure eyewash stations are properly maintained, inspected, and ready for immediate use.
• Report blocked, damaged, contaminated, or malfunctioning eyewash equipment immediately.
• Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, chemical splash goggles, face shields, gloves, and protective clothing as appropriate for the hazard.

Emergency eyewash equipment should be located so it can be reached immediately—generally within approximately 10 seconds of the hazard. Do not rely on a specific distance such as 50 feet because accessibility depends on the workplace layout and hazards involved.

If a Chemical Gets in Your Eyes

Act immediately. Do not delay flushing to report the incident, locate an SDS, or find a supervisor.

1. Go immediately to the nearest emergency eyewash.
2. Activate the eyewash and begin flushing.
3. Hold your eyelids open with your fingers so the flushing fluid reaches the eyes.
4. Roll your eyes in different directions to help rinse beneath the eyelids and across the entire eye surface.
5. Flush both eyes when appropriate, particularly when it is uncertain whether both were exposed.
6. Remove contact lenses as soon as practical while flushing. Do not delay irrigation to remove them.
7. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes or for the period specified by the chemical’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or emergency procedures. Some chemicals may require longer flushing.
8. Obtain appropriate medical evaluation following the exposure.

A coworker should assist when available, including helping the exposed employee reach the eyewash and contacting emergency medical services when necessary. Assistance should never delay immediate flushing.

What Not to Do

• Do not rub your eyes.
• Do not attempt to neutralize a chemical in the eye with another chemical.
• Do not apply ointments, drops, or other substances unless directed by appropriate medical personnel.
• Do not stop flushing simply because the pain or irritation decreases.
• Do not attempt to remove an embedded object from the eye.
• Do not delay flushing while waiting for medical assistance.

Eyewash Bottles

Portable eyewash bottles may provide immediate supplemental flushing when appropriate, but they generally do not replace a required emergency eyewash station.

When a plumbed or approved self-contained eyewash is required, proceed to it immediately and begin the required flushing.

Eyewash Inspection and Maintenance

Emergency eyewash equipment must remain sanitary and operational. Employees should report:

• Blocked access.
• Missing or damaged protective covers.
• Contaminated or obstructed spray heads.
• Inadequate flow.
• Leaking or damaged equipment.
• Any condition preventing immediate activation.

Eyewash equipment should be inspected and maintained according to applicable requirements, company procedures, and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember

When a hazardous chemical enters the eyes, seconds matter. Get to the eyewash immediately, activate it, hold your eyelids open, and flush continuously. Reporting and medical follow-up are important, but flushing comes first.