At a recent speaking engagement, we received numerous questions related to eyewash stations and thought this would be the perfect time to provide a refresher to our readers. While the requirements to provide eyewash stations reside within the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) standards, the organization defers to the American National Standards Institute to set the details in terms of location, functionality, and criteria for placement of these devices. According to OSHA, work-related eye injuries happen more frequently than necessary in the workplace. The consistent use of preventative measures such as eye goggles, protective eyewear, and face shields is essential to prevent these injuries but we also need easy-to-access injury recovery mechanisms in place to provide immediate first aid.
Here are some of the questions our audience sought clarification on:
When are eyewash stations required?
Eyewash stations are required in locations where workers are handling corrosive or caustic chemicals. These are typically chemicals that have a pH of less than 2.0 or greater than 11.5. The most common chemicals used in healthcare organizations that meet the definition of corrosive or caustic are glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde, bleach, and sodium hydroxide, concentrated hydrogen peroxide, phenol, and iodine.
Where must eyewash stations be located?
The eyewash station should be within 10 seconds of reach from the point of exposure or injury and located on the same level as the hazard, meaning the injured person does not need to navigate up or down stairs. The path to the station should be clear of obstructions, (this includes doors), and well-lit. There should also be easily visible signage noting the location of the station.
What features must the eyewash station have to meet the requirements?
- The station should provide a continuous flow of clean, potable water or eyewash solution for at least 15 minutes. The flow rate should be 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute).
- The temperature of the flushing fluid should be between 60° and 100° F to avoid additional injury to the eye.
- The station should also have coverings that protect the water spouts or area where you would place your eyes from contamination. The device must be designed so that the protective coverings are automatically displaced upon activation of the flow of water. The injured person must not be required to manually remove the protective coverings.
- Activation of the station or activation of the flow of fluid should be hands free but minimally activation should be limited to requiring one single action to begin the delivery of first aid. The flow of water or fluid should remain open, meaning the user should not need to re-activate the flow at any time.
- When the eyewash station is installed on a sink, the sink should be a sink normally dedicated as a clean sink vs. a dirty sink.
What else do I need to know?
- The device must be installed as instructed within the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
- The station needs to be inspected annually unless it is a plumbed station, those require activation every week.
- Any employee who might be exposed to these types of chemicals should receive training on the use of the eyewash station.
- While the focus of this article is eyewash stations, the same requirements exist for locations where exposure to the body may occur.
Please contact us for questions or more information at 704-573-4535 or info@courtemanche-assocs.com.
Courtemanche & Associates specializes in Healthcare Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance Consulting Services. With over 30 years of being in business and 100+ years of healthcare experience amongst our consulting team, we are ready to assist with your accreditation and regulatory compliance needs.
