What type of flushing fluid must be used for eyewashes and showers?

While OSHA does not address this issue, ANSI standard Z358.1-2014 for emergency eyewash and shower equipment defines acceptable flushing fluid as one of the following:

• Potable water,
• Preserved water,
• Preserved buffered saline solution, or
• Other medically acceptable solution manufactured and labeled in accordance with applicable government regulations.

Any of these are acceptable, but a fluid that is appropriate for the type of decontamination treatment must be chosen.