In many splash or spray incidents, eyewashes and eye/face washes are the initial response mechanism. These important pieces of equipment are tasked with diluting and/or removing the hazardous materials, mitigating further injury.
Proper selection of emergency equipment is a function of knowing your risks, the characteristics of the materials you work with and logical consideration of the variety of products and design configurations available.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provides a guide to aid manufacturers, consumers and the general public relative to Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment. The Standard, Z358.1-2009, is prefaced by advice regarding the need for proper protection of employees and others to minimize the risk of hazardous exposure. It also advises those concerned with compliance to obtain specific local medical input regarding risks and countermeasures.
This article is not meant to be an interpretation of ANSI Z358.1, nor is it intended to replace the advice of a competent medical professional. Instead, the following information is aimed at developing a logical thought process that comprehends many of the circumstances and alternatives of your specific eyewash and/or eye/face wash applications.