How to Use Eye Wash Stations

The eye wash station can save your eyes from chemical damage.

Emergency eye wash stations are essential in certain types of workplace settings such as hospitals, factories or restaurants. OSHA, or Occupational Safety and Health Administration, requires that all employees know where the eyewash stations are located and how to use them if an emergency occurs. Chemicals or bodily fluids can be dangerous if they come in contact with your eyes. Quickly using the company eye wash station can save your eyes from being damaged.

Instructions

1. Memorize the locations of all the eye wash stations in your company. It is easy to get confused during an emergency so having advance knowledge of where all the eye wash stations are located is a must. Review the locations every six months or so to ensure that you are secure in your knowledge.

2. Attend a training class on how to use the eye wash station. Work site eye wash trainings are mandatory under OSHA laws for facilities that have eye wash equipment. If you cannot attend a training, have your supervisor or the head of human resources go over the steps of using an eyewash station with you.

3. Turn the water on by removing any caps on the eyewash, which will automatically start some eye wash machines. You can also turn it on using the lever on the side of the eye wash machine.

4. Remove your contacts or glasses, if you wear them, and push your hair away from your eyes. This prevents any obstacles from getting in the way of the water rinsing your eyes.

5. Place your eyes in direct contact with the stream of water. Hold your eyes as open with your fingertips and hold your head steady. The water will rinse your eyes of any chemicals or fluids that may be contaminating the eyes. Keep the water flowing over your eyes for at least 15 minutes.

6. Consult your primary care doctor or the local emergency room once you have completed the eye wash. They will tell you if any damage to the eyes has occurred and if you need to take further action. Follow any advice that the doctor gives you before returning to work.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Eye and Face Protection
• N.C. Department of Labor: A Guide to Eyewash and Safety Shower Facilities
• State Compensation Insurance Fund: Emergency Eyewash Stations
• Office Of Compliance: Fast Facts Emergency Eye Wash and Shower Units

Resources

• Faucet Mount Eyewash machine