Osha Regulations For Eye Wash Stations
Osha is known for its workplace safety guidelines all over the country. The Osha regulations for Eye Wash stations is just one of the many safety topics they cover. Eye safety in the work place is very important. There is no way to replace a lost eye and even repairing damage can be impossible depending on the severity of the injury. It is best just to follow Osha's eye safety rules and regulations for eye wash stations than to risk losing an eye.
Osha regulation 1910.151 says anywhere the risk of corrosive materials becoming lodge in the eye might exist there must also be an eye wash station. It must be suitable for flushing the eye with water and be in the immediate area. All eye wash stations are to be keep clean and in working condition. They must be free of debris in them as well as on the floor around them so a tripping hazard can be avoided. For an eye wash station to meet Osha standards it must meet the following guidelines.
- Must be placed within ten seconds of hazardous area
- Nozzles must have covers to protect them from airborne germs and contamination
- Both nozzles must be working in order to flush both eye at the same time.
- station must have a stay open valve to allow water flow while holding both eyes open
- System must begin flushing process within one second of starting
- Location of Eye Wash Station must be visible with a well placed sign
- Floor around station must be kept free of clutter and debris
- Equipment must be maintained and working properly at all times
- All employees must know where to locate eye station and how to work it
Osha's regulations for eye wash stations also includes shower stations. They are mainly used in areas where toxic chemicals may come in contact with skin. If a person spills a chemical on themselves they are suppose to jump into the shower station and scrub there body as the water pressure helps to remove any chemicals on the skin. The main thing to remember is how important following the safety rules are to your personal health. It is better to take five extra minutes to complete a task than to lose an eye or your life.