Hughes Safety Showers in North America introduces the newest additions to their product range; the polar cubicle safety shower and 450-liter temperature controlled unit. Both products are built to protect a casualty on a work site in extremely cold environments that fall victim to a chemical spill. The temperature controlled unit is capable of providing tepid water to a safety shower while the polar cubicle shower protects the user from harsh external elements that could cause discomfort, preventing a full decontamination, or even hypothermia.

Compact design

Both units have a compact design to optimize on space. Inside the temperature controlled unit is a 450-liter tank and expansion tank. The system utilizes a thermostatic mixing valve to mix the hot water from the 450-liter tank and cold water, providing a tepid water temperature that is comfortable to the user. In addition to the above, the unit also features a room heater. When fully assembled, the combined units measure 48” x 95” to fully capitalize on floorspace.

The polar cubicle features double-swing doors which swing shut once the casualty is safely inside the cubicle, protecting the user from harsh external weather conditions and assisting in keeping the heat inside the cubicle with the assistance of the internal insulation. Inside the polar cubicle shower is a stainless-steel combination safety shower and eye/face wash station which can be used independently or simultaneously. The polar cubicle also contains a room heater and light to keep the casualty comfortable during and after using the shower, ensuring they do not leave the cubicle due to discomfort before medical assistance arrives.

Provides 15 minutes of tepid water

ANSI standards stipulate that for a safe and thorough decontamination a safety shower must provide 15 minutes of uninterrupted water, with the optimal temperature in a tepid range of 16-38C/60-100F. Tepid water provisions in extremely cold climates can be challenging to implement as units run the risk of dousing the user in freezing cold water. When this occurs, the casualty naturally wants to withdraw from the flow of water, preventing a full decontamination and running the risk of the harsh chemicals remaining in the casualty’s eyes, clothes, and skin. If the user does stay under a flow which is too cold for comfort, they run the risk of contracting hypothermia. The temperature controlled unit houses a 450-liter hot water tank and expansion tank to provide 15 minutes of tepid water by mixing it with the incoming cold water, allowing the safety shower user to safely decontaminate to ANSI standards.

Highly customizable

Hazardous and non-hazardous versions of both units are available, including Class I, Div 2, and even Class I, Div 1 areas. The cubicle can be fitted with several audible and visual alarm packages to alert nearby workers that the shower has been activated, and also include remote signal connections. Additional lighting can also be installed externally to increase visibility for nearby or impaired workers.

Easy transportation and installation

The polar cubicle shower and 450L temperature controlled unit are two independent units that sit perfectly flush to one another when installed. Each unit has a single junction box that all electricals are wired to, meaning only one power supply per unit is required. The design assists with easy transportation to the site and ease of installation.