E. Eye Wash Stations Eye wash stations provide an effective means of treatment when chemicals come in contact with the eyes. Eye wash stations should be readily available and accessible to all laboratory personnel. The facility should be clearly marked and no more than 50 feet, or 15-30 seconds, away from every lab work station. Eye injury usually accompanies a skin injury. For this reason, eye wash stations should be located near the safety shower so that eyes and body can be washed.
Eyelids have to be forcibly opened to ensure effective washing behind the eyelid.
Be sure to wash from the nose out to the ear this will avoid washing chemicals back into the eye or into an unaffected eye. Remove contact lenses as soon as possible to rinse eyes of any harmful chemicals. Cover both of the victim's eyes with a clean or sterile gauze. Eye wash stations should be inspected every six months. Plumbed eye wash stations should have protective covers to protect nozzles from airborne contaminants.