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Environmental Health, Safety, and Risk Management

Eye Wash/Safety Shower

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Required

Showers and/or Eyewash units are required in areas where parts of the body may come into contact with a substance which is:

  • Corrosive
  • Severely irritating to the skin
  • Toxic by skin absorption

Location Requirements

  • Installed in accessible locations that require no more than 10 seconds for the injured person to reach in accordance with ANSI Z358.1 - 1981 and CCR, Title 8, Section 5162 specifications.
  • If both an eyewash and shower are needed, they shall be located so that both can be used at the same time.
  • The area of the eyewash and shower equipment shall be maintained free of items which obstruct their use.

The most common problems found that are correctable by lab workers are:

  • Obstructions - such as carts, clothing, or equipment - which prevent the use of the unit in an emergency.
  • The addition of energized or "plugged in" electronic equipment placed on the ground or surrounding area would constitute an electrical hazard if the shower/eyewash were to be used.

Maintenance

  • Plumbed eyewash and shower equipment shall be activated at least monthly to flush the line and to verify proper operation.

Additionally, although not specifically required, Campus EHS/RM personnel inspect and verify that showers are functional and remain in operable states in the event of an emergency.

Problems?

Submit Work Request