How long should water flow at an eyewash station in case of exposure?

In cases of chemical exposure to the eyes, it is crucial to provide immediate and effective decontamination to minimize potential injury. The recommendation for an eyewash station is to have water flowing for at least 15 minutes. This duration allows ample time for the flushing action to thoroughly rinse away contaminants from the eyes and surrounding facial areas.

During the initial moments of exposure, it might not be possible to determine the severity of the injury or the nature of the substance that caused the exposure. Therefore, a prolonged flushing period ensures that any hazardous materials are effectively removed. This also aligns with various safety regulations and guidelines established by organizations such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which emphasize the importance of adequate washing time to protect the eyes and prevent serious damage.

Other durations of water flow, such as 5 or 10 minutes, may not provide sufficient time for effective decontamination in all scenarios, especially with more hazardous chemicals. Hence, the minimum standard of 15 minutes is a critical guideline in ensuring safety and properly addressing eye injuries caused by chemical exposure.