Eye Wash

A Clear View of Safety: Choose Our Eye Wash Products for the Ultimate Protection

Eyes are the window to the soul, and at work, they are often exposed to harsh chemicals and irritants. Don't let a preventable eye injury ruin your livelihood. Protect yourself and your team with our top-of-the-line eye wash products.

Our eye wash kits and workstations are designed for use in the workplace. They provide irrigation and cleansing for the eyes, making sure that even in the most remote locations, you have access to safe and sterile eye wash. Our kits include everything you need to ensure quick and effective treatment in the event of an emergency. Sterile eye wash bottles, eye pad dressings and even a mirror for ease of application.

Don't settle for subpar safety measures in the workplace. Trust in our reliable and durable eye wash products. Whether you're in a factory or laboratory, on a construction site or in an industrial kitchen, our eye wash stations and kits have got you covered. With our products, you can work confidently knowing that your eyes are protected.

What Is Eye Wash?

Eye wash, also known as eyewash or eye irrigation, is a solution or device used to flush and clean the eyes in the event of an emergency, such as exposure to chemicals, dust, or other irritants. Eye wash solutions typically consist of sterile saline, which helps to remove debris and neutralise any harmful substances that may have come into contact with the eyes.

Eye wash devices can be in the form of a personal eye wash bottle, a portable eye wash station, or a plumbed-in eyewash station that is connected to a water supply. Some personal bottles are filled with sterile saline solution, while the eyewash stations might have a water supply or even water with a neutralising agent.

The purpose of using eye wash is to remove any harmful particles that may have entered the eye and to flush out any chemicals that may be causing irritation or injury. The goal is to minimise damage and prevent further injury to the eyes. Eye wash solutions and devices are commonly found in workplaces where there is a risk of eye injuries, such as factories, laboratories, and construction sites.

What Are Some Common Uses for Eye Wash?

Eye wash solutions and devices are commonly used in a variety of settings and situations where there is a risk of eye injuries. Here are a few common uses for eye wash:

• Industrial workplaces: Eye wash stations and kits are often found in factories, warehouses, and other industrial settings where workers may be exposed to chemicals, dust, and other irritants that can cause eye injuries.
• Laboratory settings: Scientists, technicians, and researchers often use eye wash stations and solutions in laboratories to protect their eyes from chemicals, solvents, and other irritants that may be used in experiments.
• Construction sites: Construction workers are at risk of eye injuries from debris, dust, and other flying particles. Eye wash stations are often found on construction sites to provide quick and easy access to eye irrigation in the event of an emergency.
• First aid kits: Eye wash solutions are often included in first aid kits for use in the event of an eye injury. The solutions can be used to flush debris or chemicals out of the eyes and to neutralise any irritants.
• Emergency situations: Emergency responders, such as paramedics and firefighters, may use eye wash solutions to treat eye injuries sustained in the line of duty.
• Food service: Eye wash is also essential in restaurants, kitchen or any other food service industry, to protect the workers from any chemical splash or food irritant.

It's important to note that eye wash solutions and devices should be readily accessible and clearly marked for emergency use, and it's also important for personnel to be trained on the proper use of eye wash in case of an emergency.

What Are the Different Types of Eye Wash?

There are several different types of eye wash products available, each with their own specific features and benefits. The most common types of eye wash include:

• Personal Eye Wash Bottles: These are small, portable bottles filled with sterile saline solution or a neutralising agent. They are easy to use and can be carried in a pocket or bag for personal use in case of an emergency. They can be used for immediate flushing of the eye and for minor injuries, but for more severe injuries, it is advised to use the plumbed-in eyewash stations or portable eye wash stations.
• Portable Eye Wash Stations: These are self-contained units that can be placed anywhere in the workplace and can be used to flush and clean the eyes in case of an emergency. They typically include a bottle or reservoir of eye wash solution, a nozzle or eyepiece for flushing the eyes, and a shelf or bracket for holding the unit.
• Plumbed-In Eyewash Stations: These are permanently installed stations that are connected to a water supply. They provide a continuous flow of water or eye wash solution, making them ideal for more severe eye injuries. They are recommended to be installed in the workplaces where there is a risk of high-velocity chemical splashes or where the chemical or irritant is not known.
• Emergency Eyewash and Shower: This type of eye wash is a combination of an eyewash and a shower unit. It can be used for both eyes and body when exposed to hazardous materials. It also features a larger flow rate and a longer time duration to flush out any contaminants.
• Combination Eye/Face Wash: This type of eye wash features a larger basin with a flexible and directional flow nozzle, which can be used to wash both the eyes and face, making it ideal for environments where chemical splashes and dust are prevalent.

What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing Eye Wash?

When choosing an eye wash product, there are several key features to consider to ensure that the product will meet your needs and provide effective eye irrigation in case of an emergency. Some of the most important features to consider include:

• Flow rate: The flow rate of the eye wash solution is critical for effectively flushing out debris and chemicals from the eyes. OSHA and ANSI standard recommends a flow rate of 0.4 gallons per minute for 15 minutes.
• Placement: Consider the location and accessibility of the eye wash station, it should be within 10 seconds walking distance from the hazard, and clearly marked with signs.
• Solution: The solution used in the eye wash should be sterile and non-toxic. Saline solution is the most common solution used, but there are also other solutions available, such as buffered solutions or solutions specifically designed to neutralise certain chemicals.
• Temperature: The solution should be tepid, with a temperature range between 60 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, to avoid any thermal shock or discomfort to the eyes.
• Durability and Maintenance: Eye wash stations should be made of durable materials, and easy to clean and maintain. The unit should have an inspection and maintenance record, and be tested regularly to ensure that it is in good working condition.
• Size and portability: Choose an eye wash station that is appropriate for the size of your workplace, and consider whether a portable or plumbed-in station will best meet your needs.
• Training: Make sure that all personnel are trained on the proper use of the eye wash station in case of an emergency.

By considering these features, you can select an eye wash product that will provide effective irrigation and help to minimise the risk of eye injuries in the workplace.

How Often Should I Replace the Solution in My Eye Wash Station?

The solution in an eyewash station should be replaced on a regular basis to ensure that it is safe and effective to use in case of an emergency. OSHA and ANSI standard recommends that the solution should be replaced at least once a year or whenever it becomes contaminated, and expired solutions should be discarded. The solution's expiration date should be checked and the container should be disposed of once the date has passed.

It's also important to check the solution's appearance, if it's discoloured, contains particulate matter, or if there is an unusual odour. Any signs of contamination, or a change in the appearance, smell or pH of the solution should be taken as a sign that the solution should be replaced.

Regularly testing the station for proper flow rate and temperature, as well as keeping a maintenance log, will ensure that the station is ready for use in case of an emergency and will increase the life of the solution.

In summary, the solution should be replaced at least once a year or if it becomes contaminated, expired, or if the solution's appearance, smell or pH changes. Keeping a maintenance log and testing the station regularly, will help you keep track of the solution and station status.

How Do I Properly Use an Eye Wash Station?

Using an eyewash station properly can help to minimise the risk of eye injuries and ensure that the eyes are effectively flushed and cleaned in case of an emergency. Here are the steps for properly using an eyewash station:

• Locate the eye wash station: In case of an emergency, every second counts, so make sure you know where the eye wash stations are located in your workplace. They should be clearly marked and easily accessible.
• Remove contact lenses: If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them as soon as possible to avoid trapping debris or chemicals against the eye.
• Position yourself correctly: Stand facing the eye wash station and position your head directly under the eye wash nozzle.
• Flush your eyes: Open your eyes and flush them for at least 15 minutes. This is the recommended time for rinsing the eyes, according to OSHA and ANSI standards.
• Call for medical attention if needed: Even if the injury seems minor, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. After irrigation, the physician will be able to properly evaluate the extent of the injury.

It's also important to note that if possible, try to protect the eyes from further exposure to the chemical or irritant. If the chemical is splashed on clothing, remove the clothing and flush the area that was exposed.

It's essential that all employees are trained on the proper use of the eye wash station in case of an emergency, and also to ensure that all eye wash stations are easily accessible, functional and in good working condition.

Do I Need Special Training to Use an Eye Wash Station?

While using an eyewash station is generally simple, it's important that all employees are trained on the proper use of the eye wash station in case of an emergency. This training should include not only the physical act of using the eyewash station but also knowledge on emergency response procedures, and first aid treatment in case of chemical exposure or splash to the eyes.

Some of the things that employees should be trained on include:

• The location of eye wash stations in the workplace
• How to properly use an eyewash station to flush the eyes
• How to remove contact lenses if they are worn
• The importance of flushing the eyes for at least 15 minutes
• How to call for medical attention if needed.
• Knowing the hazards in the workplace and how to protect themselves.
• Understanding the proper disposal of hazardous materials
• How to test and maintain eye wash stations

In addition, OSHA regulations require employers to provide access to an eyewash station as well as train employees on its proper use, as well as train on emergency response procedures. It's also important that employees are aware of the signs and symptoms of an eye injury, and know how to respond in case of an emergency.

Having all employees trained on the proper use of eye wash stations, can help ensure that they will be used correctly and effectively in case of an emergency, minimising the risk of eye injuries and providing fast and efficient first aid.

Are There Any UK or European Industry Standards or Regulations That Apply to Eye Wash?

Yes, there are UK and European industry standards and regulations that apply to eye wash products.

• In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcing workplace health and safety regulations. The HSE recommends that employers should assess the risks of eye injuries in their workplace, and provide appropriate eye protection, including eye wash stations, to their employees.
• In Europe, the European Union (EU) has established a set of regulations and standards for personal protective equipment (PPE), which includes eye protection. The PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 requires all PPE products, including eye wash stations, to be tested and certified by an EU-approved certification body before they can be placed on the market.
• The standard EN 15154-1:2019, which is used to certify eye wash stations, specifies the requirements and test methods for stationary eye wash units and emergency eye/face wash equipment. These requirements include the flow rate, flushing time, water temperature, water quality and accessibility.
• In addition to HSE and EU regulations, the European standard (EN) 166:2002 - Personal eye-protection - Specifications, also applies to eye protection in general, including eye wash stations.

It's important to note that while standards and regulations vary by country, but in general all of them aim to ensure the safety and health of the workers, and providing them with the necessary equipment and training. Compliance with the above mentioned regulations and standards can help employers ensure that their eye wash stations are safe and effective for use in case of an emergency, and reduce the risk of eye injuries in the workplace.