Emergency Eyewash Stations

Corrosive chemicals, debris, and splashes from a patient’s oral cavity can harm unprotected eyes during treatment. That’s why having a nearby emergency eyewash station that meets OSHA standards is vital. If you’re unsure whether your practice needs one, OSHA’s answer is a clear “YES.”

OSHA’s Requirements

OSHA’s requirements at 29 CFR 1910.151(c). “Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use. As the standard states, an eyewash and/or safety shower would be required where an employee’s eyes or body could be exposed to injurious corrosive materials. If none of the materials used in this work area is an injurious corrosive [chemical] (as indicated by SDS for each product). Then an emergency eyewash or shower would not be required pursuant to 1910.151(c).

Requirements

Review your practice’s emergency eyewash station(s) to ensure they meet these requirements:

1. The emergency eyewash station must be within a 15-second walk from treatment and sterilization areas. It should be positioned away from potential contamination sources. The path to the station must be clear of obstructions. It should follow the normal traffic flow from the hazard to the station.
2. The eyewash station should provide water for at least 15 minutes. According to ANSI Z358.1-2014, it must deliver fluid to both eyes simultaneously at a minimum rate of 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute) for 15 minutes.
3. The user should be able to hold their eyelids open with both hands while a consistent flow of water rinses their eyes.
4. The nozzles should be at least six inches from any obstruction and mounted between 33 and 45 inches above the floor. 
5. The water should be tepid, between 60-100°F. Tip: ANSI recommends flushing the eyewash station weekly to prevent sediment-laden water from being the first contact during an emergency.

Be OSHA Compliant

By following these steps and meeting OSHA requirements, you can ensure your eyewash station is compliant and ready for emergencies.

Have any questions?

Resources: 

•  OSHA3818.pdf 
• Requirements for eyewash and shower facilities. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov)