• ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 explains that employees must be informed of eyewash/shower locations and trained in their use, if they may be subjected to injurious materials.
• When training employees, review the employee handout, and stress workplace emergency procedures, especially how to activate the emergency medical system.
• Explain to employees why it is so important to properly assist fellow employees in distress to reach the eyewash/shower station.

While OSHA has no specific training requirements for eyewashes/showers, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) / International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) Z358.1, American National Standard for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment, explains that employees must be informed of eyewash/shower locations and trained in their use, if they may be subjected to injurious materials. OSHA often refers employers to this consensus standard for firm guidance.

Training tips

When training employees, review the employee handout, and stress workplace emergency procedures, especially how to activate the emergency medical system.

• Teach in a language that the trainees understand. If a trainee’s vocabulary is limited, account for that limitation. Translators may be needed.
• Show employees locations of emergency eyewash/shower stations.
• Explain when they might have to use it.
• Demonstrate how to activate the eyewash/shower and review proper use.
• Remind employees to flush eyes and skin for at least 15 minutes.
• Emphasize the importance of keeping the path to the equipment free of obstacles.
• Explain why it is important to properly assist fellow employees in distress to reach the eyewash/shower station.