ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Eyewash stations are required whenever a person may be exposed to corrosive materials or a significant eye hazard.

The Safety Data Sheets maintained in each cost center should be reviewed to determine if an eyewash is required.

There are different types of eyewashes and employees should be aware of what type is in their area as well as how to operate it.

Plumbed eyewashes are permanently plumbed into the water supply system. Portable eyewashes are placed at locations where a water supply is not available.

Eyewash units are required to be within 10 seconds, which is approximately 55 feet, of a hazard. They must be on the same level as the hazard and have an unobstructed travel path.

This ensures that an employee can quickly and easily get to the eye wash station in the event of an emergency to rinse the foreign substance from their eyes.

Eyewash stations should be inspected weekly. Supervisors must maintain a copy of the eyewash inventory in Tab 4 of their Safety Go-To-Resource binder.

Each eyewash stations should be inspected following the eyewash checklist. The signature sheet should be left on the eyewash until completely filled out, at which time it should be placed in Tab 4 of the GTR.

Plumbed eyewashes, must to be activated weekly for a period long enough to verify operation and ensure flushing fluid is available.

Portable eyewashes should be visually checked to determine if flushing fluid needs to be changed or supplemented.

EYEWASH/SHOWER STATION BASICS:

• Stations must have ability to provide 15 minutes of constant water flow.

• Must be installed in a highly visible, well-lit area, identified with signs.

• Stations must be located within 10 seconds of the hazard, on the same level, with an unobstructed travel path.

• Area around station must be kept clear.

• Employees must be trained on location and proper use of emergency eyewashes.

INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS:

• Clean and inspect all stations weekly.

• Plumbed stations must be activated weekly. If a drain is unavailable, use a five-gallon bucket to collect water. Be careful not to exceed the container's capacity.

• Portable units must be visually checked weekly. Ensure fluid levels are adequate.

• Record the date of inspection and inspector's name on the test record tag.

• The test record tag must be on the station until completely filled out. Once complete, file in Tab 4 of the Supervisor's Safety Go-To-Resource binder.