Analyze and inspect your workplace for hazards to the eyes.

Eye Injuries are common occurances in an industrial workplace. Planning for emergencies before they happen can be the difference between a minor incident and a debilitating disabiltiy.

I recommend: Following OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.151(c) which states that whenever employees are exposed to corrosive materials, emergency eyewash and showers must be provided for them.   Inspect the workplace in order to uncover the risk areas and potential for eye injuries caused by chemical splashes or foreign particles in the eye. 

Eyewash Stations need to be ANSI compliant for worker protection

OSHA sets the requirement for the use of Emergency Eyewash stations and if refers to the ANSI Standard to set detailed instructions on the operation and installation of emergency eyewash stations.

I recommend: Purchasing Eyewash Stations that are ANSI compliant.  The ANSI standard that pertains to eyewash stations is Z358.1-2004.  This standard establishes the use and performance requirements for eyewash stations and shower equipment for the treatment of exposure to a
potentially dangerous chemical substance in the eye or on the skin.  It is the source of guidance for compliance with OSHA regulation 1910.151(c).

Place Eyewash Stations strategically thoughtout the workplace

ANSI mandates the number of seconds that it should take to reach the eyewash station in an emergency along with it's positioning in the plant or job-site. ANSI has also determined the best water temperature for the flushing fluid.

I recommend: Following the ANSI standard and installing emergency eyewash stations in your plant or jobsite within ten seconds walking distance from the hazard area. The eyewash station must be on the same level as the hazard.  Periodically inspect the area to be sure that it is free and clear of any objects that could block the path for the injured employee.  Be sure that the temperature of the water supply in your eyewash stations is lukewarm or tepid.  If the flushing fluid is too hot or too cold this could cause further injury to the eye. The eyewash station should be inspected and maintained according to the manufactures instructions to be sure that it is in proper working order in case of an emergency..

Choose the correct type of Eyewash Station for your workers

Eyewash Stations come in different shapes and sizes. Each type of eyewash station has it's own unique advantages. In purchasing an eyewash station, an employer has to consider the maintenance required for each particular style. It is imperative to follow maintenance schedules with eyewash stations.

I recommend: : Choosing the type of eyewash station that will be the most advantageous for your work area.  There are various styles and types to choose from along with different flushing fluids that are used for each type.  Plumbed eyewash stations use regular tap water from the pipes that are connected to municipal waterlines. They must be flushed on an ANSI mandated weekly schedule in order to flush away any buildup or bacteria that forms from stagnant water.  There are tank style self contained eyewash stations that use regular tap water with a preservative added to the tap water in the mixing process.  The solution expires within a six month period and must be cleaned and refilled.  The newest tank style self contained eyewash station comes with sealed cartridges that do not require the use of tap water. The benefit of this type of unit is that the flushing fluid is a sterile solution which offers added protection from contaminants that can be found in tap water. Their shelf life can be as long as twenty four months.  They have the added feature of being a portable eyewash station that can be conveniently moved from one place to another.

Inform Workers on the use of eyewash stations and their locations within the work area

Eyewash Stations must be clearly labeled so that employees know exactly where to go and what to do when they get there in case an emergency arises.

I recommend: : Including training sessions for employees in the proper use of an eyewash station.  Once an accident happens, it is too late to learn the proper use of safety equipment.  Be sure that eyewash stations are clearly marked and visible to employees.  There should be safety signs clearly labeling the eyewash stations in the work area.  Make sure that workers know that if they have been splashed by a chemical in the eye that they do NOT squeeze their eyes shut. They need to flood their eyes for a full fifteen minutes in order to minimize damage.

Know the Chemicals that you are dealing with in an emergency situation

All chemicals can cause diffferent reactions. They are made of different substances and have to be treated accordingly.

I recommend: Have MSDS sheets or the NIOHS Chemical Pocket Guides available for all chemicals that your workers are being exposed to.  If a chemical splashes in the eye of an employee, it is important to know beforehand the correct emergency response that should be followed.  In rare situations, there are certain chemicals that will become more caustic to the eye if water or a flushing fluid is used.  Chemicals can be dangerous substances if you do not know what you are dealing with prior to an emergency.  The safest workplace is run by knowledgeable and informed employers about the hazards to their employees on the job.

Safety Glasses and Goggles are the first line of defense to prevent eye injuries

Prevention of an injury is what should be strived for. Safety glasses and goggles have prevented many workers from the trauma of an eye injury.

I recommend: Adhere to the first line of defense in eye protection and safety by having workers wear the proper safety glasses, goggles and face shields in areas in the workplace that pose a risk to the eyes.  Follow the necessary  guidelines on eye protection in the workplace to keep workers eyes free from damage.