Eye wash stations in the workplace that require emergency use

"Chemical accidents are often unpredictable and when they occur, immediate assistance is required to reduce the risk of serious injury. Eyewash stations are designed to provide emergency assistance, such as flushing chemicals out of the eyes quickly before transporting the victim to a medical facility."

Key Reasons to Install Eyewashes in the Workplace 
● Reduce Chemical Exposure: Exposure to chemicals can irritate or damage tissue in the eye. Flushing within the first 15 minutes can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
● Quick Response: Having an eyewash in the workplace allows employees to respond immediately to emergencies, reducing the time lost searching for an exit or water source.
● Legal Compliance: In some industries that use hazardous chemicals, eyewashes are required by workplace safety regulations.

"The installation of an eyewash in the workplace should be carefully considered, taking into account several factors, such as location, accessibility, and emergency use. In general, eyewashes should be located in a location that is accessible within 10 seconds from the highest risk point."

Where to install an eye wash basin
● It should be installed in an area near a source of hazardous chemicals.
● Avoid installing in an area with obstacles or where access may be difficult.
● Install in a place with sufficient lighting and away from electrical sources that may cause water hazards.

Setting up and testing the equipment  
● Check that the eyewash basin has the proper flow rate (the water flow should be steady and not too strong).
● Make sure the equipment is not blocked by any objects or obstacles.
● Test the equipment at regular intervals to ensure it is ready to use at all times.

"In addition to eyewash stations, there are other equipment that should be installed with eyewash stations to ensure efficient use." These include
● Portable emergency eyewash stations: Portable emergency eyewash stations are important when permanent eyewash stations are not immediately accessible.
● Medical kits   Areas with hazardous chemicals should have emergency kits, such as gloves, masks, or other first aid supplies.
● Hazard signs: There should be signs clearly indicating the location of eyewash stations so that employees can access them immediately in an emergency.

"Emergency eyewash training is very important to ensure that all employees know how to use it correctly and are confident in using it in a real emergency. Training should cover the following topics"
1. How to use an eyewash: Explain the steps in detail, such as turning on the water, positioning the face in the correct position, and washing the eyes correctly.
2. Emergency preparedness: Train employees on what to do in an emergency, such as contacting a medical team or taking them to a hospital.
3. Equipment maintenance: Employees should know how to properly inspect and maintain equipment, including testing it regularly.

"Eye wash basin maintenance is a must to ensure that the equipment is always ready for use in case of emergency. Testing and cleaning the eye wash basin will increase the life of the equipment and reduce the risk of problems later."
Eye wash basin maintenance steps
● Check the water to be clean and free of contaminants
● Clean the eye wash basin every month to prevent dirt that may contaminate the water
● Make sure that the eye wash basin can work effectively without interruption

Having an eyewash station in the workplace is an important matter that should not be overlooked, especially in places that involve chemicals or accidents that may occur in the workplace. Proper installation and maintenance of the equipment will help prevent serious injuries to employees and also help the workplace to effectively comply with the established safety regulations.