Eye Wash Station

Emergency science eye wash stations are needed in the workplace in case an accident does happen on the job. You should complete an assessment of the work area to properly place your eye wash. SEFA, ANSI, and OSHA have established guidelines for the proper location and placement of these stations.

In addition to proper placement, you should always make sure that you perform the appropriate maintenance of your lab eye wash station to make sure it is in proper working order.

The Importance of Eye Wash Stations for Workplace Safety

Emergency eye wash stations are important in any workplace where hazardous chemicals or materials are handled. They share immediate relief in the event of an accident, such as chemical splashes or foreign objects entering the eyes.

The importance of having a properly installed and maintained eye wash station cannot be overstated. It can make the difference between a minor injury and long-term damage to the eyes or vision.

In industries such as laboratories, manufacturing, and science-related fields, the risk of eye injuries is prevalent. When working with chemicals, cleaning agents, or even mechanical processes, employees need access to a reliable science eye wash station.

Immediate eye irrigation helps flush harmful substances from the eyes. It reduces the likelihood of severe damage and promotes quicker recovery.

Proper Placement of Eye Wash Stations

When it comes to the placement of lab eye wash stations, compliance with regulatory standards is important.

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have outlined clear guidelines for the correct location and installation of these stations.

Here are some key guidelines for eye wash station placement:

• Accessibility: An eye wash station should be easily accessible within 10 seconds from any work area where hazardous materials are used. This makes sure that in the event of an emergency, the injured person can quickly reach the station.
• Clear Pathways: There must be a clear, unobstructed path to the station. Clutter or equipment blocking the way can delay access during critical moments.
• Height and Positioning: The nozzle of the eye wash station should be positioned at a height that allows easy access while seated or standing, usually between 33 and 45 inches from the floor. Make sure that the unit is not obstructed by shelves or countertops.
• Water Flow: The flow of water from the eye wash station should be strong enough to deliver a thorough rinse but gentle enough not to cause further injury. ANSI recommends a minimum flow of 0.4 gallons per minute (GPM) for 15 minutes.
• Temperature: The water temperature should be tepid—between 60°F and 100°F. Too hot or too cold water can cause discomfort or worsen the injury.

Types of Eye Wash Stations Available

LOC Scientific offers various eye wash stations designed for different workplace needs. Here are a few options that suit a range of environments:

	Lab Eye Wash Station (EW1022): This deck-mounted brass squeeze valve shares quick access to flushing in laboratory environments, ideal for fast-response situations.		Science Eye Wash Station (EW806): A deck-mounted station with a brass ball valve—perfect for science labs where space and quick accessibility are important.
	Countertop Eyewash Station (EW814): For work areas with limited space, this wall-mounted brass ball valve unit offers a compact solution without compromising safety.		Eye Wash Station (EW849): This deck-mounted autoflow swing valve model shares hands-free operation, ideal for situations where immediate, hands-free access to an eye wash is needed.

Maintenance of Eye Wash Stations

To make sure your eye wash stations function properly during emergencies, regular maintenance is important. Here are some best practices:

• Weekly Testing: Test the water flow and functionality of the eye wash station at least once a week to guarantee proper water flow and no blockages.
• Cleaning: Clean the eyewash nozzles and the surrounding area regularly to prevent dirt or chemical buildup that may affect performance.
• Water Quality: Regularly check the water quality to make sure it meets the ANSI standards. Consider adding a water treatment system if your facility uses hard water.

Contact a LOC sales associate today. We will be happy to help you choose a new eyewash station for your work area.