The Knowledge of Eye Wash Stations

👁️ Types of Eyewash Stations

Eyewash stations are categorized by their water source and design. The right type depends on the specific hazard and work environment.

1. Plumbed Eyewash Stations
   • Description: Permanently connected to a building’s potable water supply.
   • Advantages: Provides an unlimited supply of water for the required 15-minute flush. Consistent water pressure.
   • Disadvantages: Fixed location, requires piping installation. Water may not be tempered (controlled temperature), which can be a deterrent to use.
2. Portable (Self-Contained) Eyewash Stations
   • Description: Self-contained units with their own clean, potable water or saline solution supply. The fluid is stored in a tank.
   • Advantages: Can be placed anywhere, ideal for areas without plumbing, outdoor or mobile work sites, and temporary hazard zones.
   • Disadvantages: Limited water supply (must be checked and refilled regularly). Requires weekly maintenance to ensure water quality and functionality.
3. Combination Eye/Face Wash Stations
   • Description: A plumbed or portable unit designed with a large, central spray head to irrigate both the eyes and the entire face simultaneously.
   • Use Case: Essential for situations where corrosive materials could splash onto the face, not just the eyes.
4. Eyewash/Drench Hose Units
   • Description: A flexible hose attached to a water outlet, often with a special nozzle.
   • Use Case: Useful for targeted irrigation of a single eye or a limb. It is considered a supplementary device and must not be used as a substitute for a primary eyewash station because it cannot rinse both eyes effectively at the same time.
5. Personal Eyewash Bottles
   • Description: Small, sealed, disposable or refillable squeeze bottles filled with sterile saline solution.
   • Use Case: Intended for immediate, initial first aid while the victim is in transit to a permanent eyewash station. They are not a replacement for a full-scale eyewash due to their limited volume and inability to hold the eyelids open.

📍 Suitable Locations and Environments

Proper placement is critical for effectiveness in an emergency.

• Accessibility: Must be located within a 10-second walk of the hazard (approximately 55 feet / 17 meters). The path must be completely unobstructed.
• On the Same Level: The station should be on the same floor as the hazard; do not place it where a victim would have to navigate stairs.
• Well-Lit and Identifiable Area: The location should be highly visible and marked with a highly visible sign. The actuator should be easy to find and use in a panic.
• Environment-Specific Selection:
  • Laboratories & Chemical Plants: Plumbed or combination stations are preferred due to constant high-risk exposure.
  • Construction Sites & Outdoor Work: Portable stations are mandatory as they are not dependent on fixed infrastructure and can be moved with the work.
  • Areas Prone to Freezing: Heated enclosures or freeze-resistant models are required for outdoor or unheated indoor locations to ensure the water does not freeze.
  • Dusty Environments: Stations must be equipped with dust covers to protect the nozzles from contamination.

🔩 Materials Used in Construction

Eyewash stations are built from durable, non-corrosive materials to withstand harsh environments and ensure long-term reliability.

• Body & Bowl: Typically made from ABS plastic, polypropylene, stainless steel (304 or 316 grade), or powder-coated steel. Stainless steel is preferred for high-corrosion areas and durability.
• Nozzles & Internal Components: Made from ABS plastic, brass, or stainless steel. Critical components are designed to resist corrosion and clogging.
• Water/Tank Lining: Tanks in portable units are often lined with antimicrobial coatings to inhibit bacteria and algae growth in the stored water.

🌐 International Standards for Eyewash Stations

While local regulations always take precedence, these are the key international benchmarks:

1. ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 (United States): This is the most widely recognized and referenced standard globally. Key requirements include:
   • Tepid Water: Flushing fluid must be between 60°F and 100°F (16°C – 38°C).
   • 15-Minute Duration: Must deliver a controlled, soft flow for a full 15 minutes.
   • Hands-Free Operation: The valve must activate in 1 second or less and remain on without the user needing to hold the actuator.
   • Weekly Activation: Plumbed units must be activated weekly to flush the system and verify operation.
2. EN 15154 (European Standard): Similar in principle to ANSI but with some differences in flow rates and testing frequencies. It has separate sections for plumbed-in and non-plumbed devices.

Other regional standards exist (e.g., AS 4775 in Australia/New Zealand, GBZ 1 in China). Companies operating internationally often design their products to meet the most stringent requirements of multiple standards.

🛠️ Installation Instructions

Correct installation is vital for compliance and performance.

1. Follow Manufacturer’s Manual: Always start with the specific instructions provided.
2. Ensure Proper Height: The activator should be between 33 and 45 inches (84 – 114 cm) from the floor for easy access.
3. Provide Adequate Clearance: Maintain at least 6 inches (15 cm) of clearance from the wall or any obstruction to allow the user to get close to the nozzles.
4. Water Supply Connection: For plumbed units, connect to a dedicated, potable water line. Ensure pressure and flow rates meet the standard’s requirements (e.g., > 12 Liters/min for eye/face wash).
5. Consider Tempering: Install thermostatic mixing valves if local codes or the ANSI standard requires tepid water.
6. Secure the Unit: Anchor the station firmly to the wall or floor to prevent movement during use.
7. Label and Signage: Install highly visible signage above or adjacent to the unit. Ensure the area is well-lit.

⚠️ Precautions for Using Eyewash Stations

Knowledge and maintenance save precious seconds and prevent further injury.

For Users:

• Act Immediately: Flood the affected eye(s) with water immediately after contact. Seconds matter.
• Hold Eyelids Open: Use your fingers to hold your eyelids open and roll your eyeballs around to ensure all surface areas, including under the lids, are flushed.
• Flush for 15 Minutes: Continue irrigation for a full 15 minutes. For strong alkalis or acids, even longer flushing may be necessary.
• Seek Medical Attention: An eyewash is first aid. Always seek follow-up medical evaluation after a chemical exposure incident.

For Facility Managers/Safety Officers:

• Weekly Actuation Test: Run all plumbed stations for at least 3 minutes weekly to clear sediment, check operation, and ensure water is available. Record the test.
• Regular Inspections: Perform a comprehensive annual inspection by a qualified person.
• Train Employees: All personnel must know the location and operation of eyewash stations in their area. Conduct hands-on drills.
• Maintain Fluid Quality: For portable units, strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s schedule for changing the water or preservative solution to prevent microbial contamination.
• Keep Access Clear: Never allow equipment, boxes, or furniture to block access to the station.

🚨 The Universal Steps for Any Eyewash Station

These steps are the same no matter which type of station you use. Speed and thoroughness are everything.

1. GO IMMEDIATELY. At the first sign of a chemical splash or foreign material in your eye, proceed quickly to the nearest eyewash station. Do not stop. Seconds matter.
2. **ACT ACTIVATE THE STATION. Use the actuator (lever, foot pedal, or button) to start the flow of water. (See specific instructions below).
3. FLUSH YOUR EYES.
   • Use Both Hands: Push your eyelids wide open with your thumbs and fingers.
   • Position Your Eyes: Position your face directly over the streams of water.
   • Roll Your Eyes. Look up, down, left, and right to ensure the water flushes under the eyelids and across the entire surface of the eyeball.
   • Shout for Help. Yell so coworkers know you need assistance and can alert emergency services.
4. CONTINUE FLUSHING FOR AT LEAST 15 MINUTES.**
   • This is a medical requirement for most chemicals. Do not rub your eyes.
   • For strong alkalis (like drain cleaner) or acids, you may need to flush for 20-30 minutes or more.
5. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
   • An eyewash is first aid. You must see a doctor or go to an to an emergency room immediately after flushing, even if the pain subsides.

🔧 How to Activate Different Types of Stations

The main difference between stations is how you turn them on.

1. Plumbed Eyewash Station & Combination Eye/Face Wash

• Activation: Quickly push the large, brightly colored handle or lever downward. It is designed to stay on without you holding it (hands-free operation).
• For Eye/Face Washes: The same action activates a wide curtain of water from the center rosehead. Press your face into the water stream.

💡 Pro-Tip: Practice during weekly activations so you know exactly how much force is needed.

2. Portable (Gravity-Feed) Eyewash Station

• Activation:
  1. Quickly remove the dust cover protecting the nozzles.
  2. Push or pull the actuator valve (often a large knob or lever) to start the flow.
• Key Point: The water is supplied by gravity from an elevated tank. The flow will slow down as the tank empties, but it must still provide 15 minutes of flushing.

⚠️ Warning: Know the location of the backup portable station in case the primary one runs out.

3. Personal Eyewash Bottles

• Activation:
  1. Twist off the cap. Most caps are designed to be pierced upon first opening.
  2. Tilt your head back.
• Application:
  • Hold the bottle upside down, 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) from the eye.
  • Squeeze the bottle gently to create a steady stream.
  • Pull your lower eyelid down to form a pouch for the fluid.
  • Roll your eye to ensure complete coverage.

🚨 CRITICAL REMINDER: A personal bottle is for immediate first aid only. You must still proceed to a full-scale eyewash station to complete the 15-minute flush.

4. Drench Hose

• Activation: Turn the valve on the wall to start the water flow.
• Usage: Aim the nozzle at the affected eye and hold your eyelid open. It is best used for flushing a single eye or skin while another person assists you or guides you to the main eyewash station.

✅ Summary: Quick Reference Guide

Type of Station	Your Main Action	Key Reminder
All Types	Hold eyelids open & roll eyes for 15+ min.	Seek medical attention afterward.
Plumbed Station	Push the lever DOWN hard and fast.	It stays on by itself. Get close to the streams.
Portable Station	Remove cover, then push/pull the valve.	This is your primary station if no plumbing exists.
Personal Bottle	Open, tilt head, and SQUEEZE gently.	This is FIRST AID ONLY. Go to a full station next.
Drench Hose	Turn valve on, aim at eye.	Not a substitute for a primary station. Best for spot-flushing.

By familiarizing yourself and your team with these steps, you can ensure a rapid, effective, and life-saving response in the event of an eye emergency.