What are Safety Shower & Eyewash Station
Safety showers and eyewash stations are emergency equipment designed to provide immediate decontamination and rinsing of the body and eyes in the event of exposure to hazardous substances. Here's an overview of each:
1. Safety Shower:
A safety shower, also known as an emergency shower or drench shower, is a fixture that delivers a large volume of water to rinse the entire body. It is typically activated by pulling a handle or chain, which releases a flow of water from a shower head located overhead. Safety showers are primarily used to address chemical spills, splashes, or other instances where a person's body or clothing comes into contact with hazardous substances.
Key features of a safety shower include:
- Large, drenching shower head that delivers a wide spray pattern to cover the entire body.
- Highly visible and easily accessible location, usually in proximity to areas where hazardous materials are handled.
- A mechanism to activate the shower quickly, such as a pull handle, chain, or push plate.
- Sufficient water flow rate and duration to effectively rinse off the hazardous substance.
2. Eyewash Station:
An eyewash station, also called an eye wash or eye rinse, is specifically designed to flush the eyes in case of chemical splashes or foreign object irritants. It provides a controlled flow of water to rinse and irrigate the eyes, helping to remove any hazardous substances or irritants and minimise eye damage.
Key features of an eyewash station include:
- Dedicated nozzles or spouts that deliver a gentle flow of water to both eyes simultaneously.
- Hands-free operation to allow the user to keep their hands away from the eyes and ensure continuous rinsing.
- Easy activation, typically by using a push handle or foot pedal for quick response.
- Adequate water flow rate and temperature to provide effective irrigation without causing additional discomfort.
Both safety showers and eyewash stations are crucial components of emergency response systems in workplaces where hazardous substances are handled. They are designed to be readily available and easily accessible to employees in the event of an emergency. It's important to regularly inspect and maintain these systems to ensure their proper functioning and compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, employee training on the location, operation, and use of safety showers and eyewashes is essential to ensure prompt and effective response during emergencies.
