Emergency Eyewash & Safety Shower Training

Why Emergency Equipment Matters

Chemical exposures can occur unexpectedly in laboratories, maintenance shops, industrial workspaces, and other areas where hazardous materials are used. Immediate flushing with water can significantly reduce the severity of injuries and may help prevent permanent damage.

Emergency Eyewash Stations

Emergency eyewash stations provide a continuous flow of clean water to flush hazardous chemicals, dust, or debris from the eyes.

Use an eyewash station immediately if:

• Chemicals splash into your eyes
• Dust or debris enters your eyes
• You experience an unknown eye exposure

Emergency Safety Showers

Emergency safety showers provide a large volume of water to quickly rinse hazardous chemicals from the body and contaminated clothing.

Use a safety shower if:

• Chemicals contact your skin
• Clothing becomes contaminated
• A large chemical spill occurs
• Clothing catches fire

Emergency equipment should be used immediately following a chemical exposure.

Use an Eyewash Station When

• Chemicals contact your eyes
• Powders or debris enter your eyes
• Eye irritation develops following a chemical exposure

Use a Safety Shower When

• Chemicals contact your skin
• Clothing becomes contaminated
• A significant chemical spill occurs
• You are uncertain about the extent of exposure

Do not delay flushing while attempting to locate a supervisor or coworker.

If Chemicals Enter Your Eyes

1. Go immediately to the nearest eyewash station.
2. Activate the unit.
3. Hold your eyelids open.
4. Roll your eyes while flushing.
5. Flush continuously for at least 15 minutes.
6. Seek medical evaluation.

If Chemicals Contact Your Body

1. Go immediately to the nearest safety shower.
2. Activate the shower.
3. Remove contaminated clothing while flushing if it is safe to do so.
4. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes.
5. Seek medical evaluation.

After using an emergency eyewash station or safety shower:

• Notify your supervisor or instructor.
• Report the incident according to your organization's procedures.
• Seek medical evaluation, even if symptoms improve.
• Complete any required incident documentation.

Some chemicals may not cause immediate pain but can still result in serious injury.

Remember these five important rules:

1. Know where the nearest emergency eyewash station and safety shower are located before beginning work.
2. Flush immediately following any chemical exposure.
3. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes.
4. Remove contaminated clothing while using a safety shower whenever possible.
5. Report the incident and seek medical evaluation after flushing.