How to Install an Emergency Eyewash Station

If you have chemicals in your workplace, it is mandatory that you provide an emergency eyewash station. Depending on what type of chemicals, you may also have to install a drench shower system as well.

Instructions

1. Choose an appropriate location for the eyewash station. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) recommends that an eyewash station should take less than 10 seconds to reach. That is between 10 to 20 feet from the hazard.

2. Determine if you are going to use a permanent fixture or a temporary one. Typically, temporary fixtures do not provide enough water to flush the eyes adequately for the recommended amount of time.

3. Install the eyewash station of your choice. If you are permanently installing it, plumb it according to manufacturer's directions. Also make sure the drain system is adequate to take the flow of water. Depending on the chemical, the water runoff may be a hazardous material. Allow for that possibility as well.

4. Make sure the water's rate of flow is adequate for use. In an actual emergency, the eyewash station needs to provide a steady stream of water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Set the water temperature for the eyewash station to a tepid temperature. This should be somewhere between 60 and 100 degrees F.

6. Place a highly visible sign on or near the eyewash station. Make sure everyone that has access to chemicals knows where the eyewash station is. Also make sure they know how to use it properly.

7. Check the eyewash station periodically. Make sure you keep it clean. Flush it periodically to prevent rust, lime and scale buildup inside the pipes.