• OSHA requires all employers who have employees that may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials to have emergency eyewash/shower units available.
• Emergency showers and eyewash stations are the first treatment to help reduce the effects of a chemical accident at the workplace.

OSHA’s emergency eyewash/shower requirements apply to all employers who have employees who may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials (as defined by the safety data sheet (SDS)). In addition, a few industry-specific standards have requirements.

When employees could be exposed to hazardous chemicals, they must be provided suitable facilities to flush the chemical from their eyes and/or body. This must take the form of a properly designed eyewash and/or shower.

Working around hazards which pose a threat to your vision may be unavoidable. However, you can prevent painful injury and possible permanent vision damage if you, and your employer, prepare for the unexpected. Emergency showers and eyewashes are provided as a first treatment to help reduce the effects of a chemical accident on the job.

The first thing to do for chemical burns to the eyes or when these chemicals splash on the skin is to flush them immediately with lots of water. An emergency eyewash and shower allow you to do this.