It's necessary to install an eye wash station if you work with hazardous chemicals. An eye wash station flushes out contaminants from your eyes to prevent damage or sight loss. An eye wash station should be placed in the immediate work area so that employees can have easy access in case of accidents.

An eye wash station comes in three common types. A faucet mount eye wash station contains a spray nozzle, a wash bowl and an operation valve. A wall mount face wash requires plumbing to properly flush the eyes and face of chemicals. Portable eye wash stations can be carried to accident scenes or other hazardous situations. Portable eye wash stations include gravity-fed and pressurized tank setups. A gravity-fed eye wash station flushes water downward to ensure removal of chemicals. It can be pushed around on a cart or placed in one spot of the work area. A pressurized portable eye wash station relies on specialized drench hoses or nozzles. When searching for eye wash station information:

1. Search for an eye wash station provider that offers variety.

2. Find an eye wash station with special features.

3. Gather accessories to work with or to protect the eye wash station.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Pick an eye wash station that accommodates your work space

Seek an eye wash station provider that features different brands for your safety needs. Make sure that the eye wash station is OSHA-compliant.

I recommend: Buy a portable or wall-mount eye wash station for removing contaminants from All Safety Products. A body, face or eye wash station can also be found at Airgas. Choose from a gravity-fed or bottled eye wash station from the eye wash station directory at C&H Distributors.

Consider an eye wash station with special features

Find eye wash station manufacturers that offer stainless steel products or components that are vandal- or fire-resistant.

I recommend: The Guardian Equipment eye wash station has a brass, chrome or stainless steel construction to prevent corrosion or other damage. B-L-S Industries offers an eye wash station list including units with stainless steel nozzles.

Remember to get eye wash station equipment and accessories

Purchase eye wash station safety signs, as well as spill equipment and drench showers to flush away contaminants from your workstation.

I recommend: Amjack maintains an inventory of emergency showers, safety glasses and spill kits in addition to the eye wash station. Beco Manufacturing provides eye wash station components such as valves, fittings and sprays. Sterile eye wash station solutions and refills can be found at Safetycal.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Test your eye wash station at least once a week to ensure that it's working. Clean and flush the eye wash station with water to prevent buildup.