Emergency Washing

Related keywords: Eyewash

It takes just one accidental splash of a corrosive substance, even a common household chemical like bleach, to cause serious or even permanent damage to a worker's eyes or skin. This is why emergency washing facilities are required to supplement use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in workplaces where contact with corrosive, toxic, or strongly irritating chemicals is possible.

The best way to find out if a chemical is corrosive, toxic, or strongly irritating is to check the container label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the chemical (365 KB PDF). Labels, SDSs, and training on chemical safety are required as part of a workplace Chemical Hazard Communication Program. For more about corrosives, see the Safety and Health Alert, "Corrosive Cleaning Products" (60KB PDF).

When selecting and installing emergency washing facilities make sure you meet the function and access requirements found in L&I safety rules.

Restaurants and other food or beverage service establishments may want to contact their local public health department to learn about possible restrictions for sink-mounted eyewashes on hand washing sinks.

Related Topics

• Chemical Hazard Communication.
• Eye Safety.
• Hazard Communication and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
• Personal Protective Equipment.

How can I get help from L&I?

• To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/about.asp for no charge technical assistance.
• For help with controlling your claims costs, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/riskmanagement.asp for a no charge risk management consultation.
• Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
• Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
• For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.