NuTrend Eyewash Station, 16 Gallon Capacity, 15 Minute Flow
Many workplaces require eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses, when employees are performing their jobs. Another key safety product that workers can benefit from is a portable eyewash station. Norkan’s NUTREND EYEWASH STATION 16 GAL CAPACITY is perfect for any setting because it requires no plumbing and is wall mounted.
Norkan’s portable eyewash stations feature an easy-to-operate lever that delivers a 15-minute stream of water to both eyes. All the exposed worker has to do is walk to the station, pull the yellow section down, and two side-by-side eye irrigators deliver vertical streams of water so each eye can be flushed and irrigated as the worker leans over the station.
Eyewash station function: The portable eyewash station provides a means to immediately flush the eyes with water in case of exposure to hazardous substances, such as chemicals, dust, or debris.
How to Use an Eyewash Station
- Quickly locate the nearest eyewash station.
- Push the lever to start the water flow.
- Hold both eyes open and place them directly in the stream of water.
- Flush the eyes continuously for at least 15 minutes, or until medical assistance arrives.
- Seek medical attention after flushing the eyes.
Eyewash Station Checklist
How does an eyewash station function, where should it be located, what are the OSHA requirements, and how often do eyewash stations need to be inspected/checked?
- OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.151(c) requires that adequate facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use when the eyes may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials.
- Eyewash station safety recommendations say that eyewash stations should be located within 10 seconds of walking distance (approximately 55 feet) from the hazard area, as per ANSI Z358.1-2014 standard.
- They should be on the same level as the hazard, and the path of travel to the eyewash station should be free of obstructions.
- Eyewash stations should be clearly marked, well-lit, and easily accessible.
How often should eyewash stations be checked?
Within OSHA requirements for eyewash stations, OSHA does not specify inspection frequency, but the ANSI Z358.1-2014 standard includes the following eyewash station safety recommendations:
- You should activate portable eyewash stations periodically, at least weekly, to verify proper operation and ensure clean flushing fluid is available.
- Inspect all eyewash stations annually for compliance with the standard.
- Maintain records of inspections and maintenance performed on eyewash stations.
- Ensure that employees are trained on the location and proper use of portable eyewash stations.
Portable eyewash stations function as a critical backup safety measure for several reasons:
Accidental exposure: Despite wearing eye protection, accidents can still happen. A splash or spill can get around or under eye protection, or the hazardous substance may come into contact with the eyes while the worker is removing their eye protection.
Equipment failure: Eye protection equipment may fail due to wear and tear, improper maintenance, or defects. In such cases, eyewash stations provide an immediate remedy to minimize eye damage.
Unexpected situations: Sometimes unexpected occurrences cause workers to not have access to or the ability to use their protective eyewear. Eyewash stations offer a quick solution to flush out harmful substances.
Comfort and compliance: Some workers may find eye protection uncomfortable or may forget to wear it consistently. While this is not an excuse for non-compliance, having eyewash stations available can help mitigate the consequences of such lapses.
Portable Eyewash Stations are Part of Eye Safety Culture
It's important to note that while OSHA requirements for eyewash stations provide general guidance, it's always best to consult the specific ANSI Z358.1-2014 standard and any applicable local regulations for more details on portable eyewash station placement, maintenance, and usage.
Eyewash stations are not a substitute for wearing proper eye protection. They are a complementary safety measure that works in conjunction with personal protective equipment to ensure the highest level of eye safety in the workplace. Regular training, supervision, and enforcement of safety protocols are essential to maintaining a strong culture of eye safety in these work environments.
