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Eyewash station compliance

Lab Safety Advisor, November 14, 2006

When selecting an eyewash station for your laboratory, you need to know the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) requirements. ANSI requires that eyewash stations are available in accessible locations within a 10-second walk of the hazard, deliver a 15-minute continuous flow, and are located in areas where caustic or hazardous substances are present. Always check all relevant material safety data sheets for pertinent information.

Because of the 15-minute flushing requirement, plumbed eyewash stations are necessary in the laboratory setting. Squeeze-type eyewash bottles with saline solution are not acceptable.

The station must have an on/off handle or valve that activates with one single motion in one second or less. The area where the station is located must be free of obstructions and have clearly visible signage.

Eyewash stations must be flushed for 1â?"3 minutes weekly to verify proper operation and to flush away buildup that may form as a result of stagnant water. Without this weekly activation, bacteria, sediment, and mold can accumulate in the plumbing.

I recommend culturing the tap water every six months to make sure there are no contaminants.

Remember to maintain compliance with the ANSI Z358.1â?"2004 standard.

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