Weekly Checkup: 5 Essential Tests for Emergency Safety Showers and Eyewash Stations
This weekly inspection and testing regimen will promote workplace safety through regulatory adherence.
- By Jeff Jones
- Jun 11, 2024
In workplaces handling hazardous materials, every second counts in the event of exposure. Emergency shower and eyewash stations offer immediate on-the-spot decontamination, crucial for minimizing the effects of chemical exposure within the first 10-15 seconds.
To uphold safety standards, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets requirements for these emergency devices, mandating their accessibility within 10 seconds of an incident. Yet, many safety showers and eyewashes are currently out of compliance with ANSI regulations, creating greater risk for worker injuries and leaving employers open to penalties and fines from OSHA. According to a study done by a large emergency equipment manufacturer, approximately 88 percent of emergency showers and eyewash stations are not in full compliance with standards detailed in ANSI/ISEA Z358.1–2014.
ANSI/ISEA Z358 mandates that weekly activations be done on a weekly basis to visually check that emergency showers and eyewashes are operating correctly, as well as to flush the plumbing so that water does not stagnate. It’s common to hear of employers struggling to meet these requirements, since testing emergency showers and eyewashes can be a painstakingly slow and messy process. However, there are certain testing tools that can expedite this process.
When conducting weekly activations, there are five important compliance requirements that are important to check if your safety showers and eyewash stations meet.
Mechanical Performance
Emergency safety showers and eyewash stations rely on various mechanical components to deliver water promptly and effectively during emergency situations. Valves, levers, and activation mechanisms must be fully operational and free of obstructions. Any malfunction in these parts can cause delays in water flow, compromising decontamination efforts and potentially exacerbating injuries.
During weekly testing, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of all mechanical components, ensuring their functionality and addressing any issues promptly.
Water Clarity
The clarity of the water flowing from emergency safety showers and eyewash stations is paramount to ensure proper decontamination. Contaminated water can worsen injuries and introduce additional hazards to the affected individual.
During weekly testing, activate the unit and observe the stream for any discoloration, cloudiness, or foreign particles. If the water appears murky or contaminated, immediate action must be taken to flush the system and address the underlying issues. Regular monitoring of water clarity helps maintain the effectiveness of emergency decontamination procedures and ensures the safety of employees.
This article originally appeared in the June 1, 2023 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.