What is an eyewash station used for in a lab
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Pull-down eyewash at a laboratory sink Show Emergency washing equipment (EWE) is provided in UW facilities for the purpose of rinsing chemicals or other harmful agents from the eyes or skin. It is an important safety tool that can prevent or limit damage to the body from exposure to harmful agents. Examples include: Eyewash Eyewashes are required in areas where any of the following agents are used: corrosives; strong irritants; or toxic chemicals of concern. An eyewash is also required to be readily available in BSL-1, BSL-2, BSL-3, and ABSL-1 (animal biosafety level 1) labs, regardless of whether the above agents are used. Drench hose Single-headed emergency washing device connected to flexible hose used to irrigate and flush the face or other parts of the body. Safety shower A safety shower is required in areas where any corrosives, strong irritants or toxic chemicals of concern are used in quantities and processes that could result in a substantial portion of the body being impacted. Every lab that uses chemicals and other potentially hazardous substances need an emergency eyewash and safety shower station. Should a user of the lab accidentally splash their eyes with a substance, the eyewash station is used to wash their eyes before further medical attention is sought. Our experienced team of designers
and installers can fit an emergency station in any laboratory environment. Whether you need an eyewash or emergency shower, you can be assured that all our fittings are designed to integrate with your lab design and furniture.  Meeting your users’ needsThere are various types of eyewash stations and shower systems on the market. Our experienced team will advise you on which installations will be best suited to your laboratory environment and the needs of your users. Recommended equipment may include: Eyewash stations: These are designed to wash chemicals or hazardous substances from a user’s eyes before they seek further medical help. Typically, it is recommended that a user washes their eyes for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes before obtaining further treatment. Eyewash bottles are also sometimes kept in labs, allowing the user to very quickly flush their eyes with water following an injury. However, they are supplementary rather than a replacement for a proper eyewash station, where the user will be able to wash their eyes for the minimum required length of time. Safety showers: These wash both the head and body, should the user have greater exposure to the hazardous substance. The showers are typically high pressure and consequently not suitable for washing the eyes. Drench hoses: These allow the user to spray a specific spot on their body that has been exposed to the hazardous substance. They are useful for users who cannot use a regular eyewash station, or for instances where the eyewash station and shower station is not available. InterFocus Bespoke IPS Emergency Wash Stations
When should I use an eyewash station?Eye wash operation
Use the emergency eye wash immediately if your eyes are exposed to a hazardous chemical. The first few seconds after exposure to a hazardous chemical (especially a corrosive chemical) are critical. Delaying treatment, even for a few seconds, may result in irreparable eye damage. Don't hesitate!
What should you do with an eyewash station?Once you reach the eye wash station, follow these important steps:. Push the level. The eyewash unit will activate with one single motion. ... . Begin to flush your eyes. ... . Hold your eyes open using your fingers. ... . Roll your eyes. ... . Continue flushing for 15 minutes. ... . Remove your contacts. ... . Seek immediate medical attention.. Where is the eyewash station located in a lab?Emergency eyewash stations should be located within 100 feet or 10-seconds travel distance from every area of the laboratory in which hazardous chemicals (irritating, corrosive, or toxic by contact or absorption) or biohazards are present.
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