What Does
Eyewash Solution Mean?
Eyewash solutions are the first safety response in an emergency situation when a person's eye has been exposed to a strong chemical with toxic, corrosive, acidic, or caustic properties.
The eyes are susceptible to several potential workplace hazards, such as sand and dust particles and chemicals and vapors from toxic chemicals and substances. Eyewash solutions can flush out these harmful substances and wash the eye to prevent further damage to it.
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Safeopedia Explains Eyewash Solution
Immediate and appropriate treatment is crucial when anyone suffers an eye injury. The first 10 seconds after the eye has been exposed to a hazardous substance are critical, especially when that substance is corrosive. The ANSI standard advises flushing the eyes continually for 15 minutes, using eyewash solution flowing at a rate of 0.4 gallons per minute for portable and plumbed eyewash stations.
All facilities that contain hazardous substances are required to have eyewash stations installed within close proximity of the chemicals for worker's safety.
Eyewash solutions must be close to the body's temperature to be effective. Fluid that is too cold may prevent the worker from flushing for the advised 15 minutes, and fluid exceeding 100°F can harm the eyes, exacerbating chemical reactions with the eyes and skin.