In the world of workplace safety, few things are as crucial as having the right equipment on hand during emergencies. One such lifesaving fixture is the eyewash station. But there’s a catch—many people believe that a plumbed eyewash station, by its very nature, is stationary. Today, we’ll dive into why a plumbed eyewash station is portable, its requirements, and how it compares to its portable counterpart.

What Is a Plumbed Eyewash Station?

A plumbed eyewash station is connected directly to a continuous water source. It provides a steady flow of potable water to flush the eyes in case of chemical exposure, debris, or other hazards. The water flow rate is designed to meet strict ANSI/ISEA standards, delivering at least 0.4 gallons per minute for 15 minutes. Typically, plumbed eyewash stations are installed near hazardous work areas, ensuring immediate access.

Why a Plumbed Eyewash Station Can Be Portable

Contrary to popular belief, some plumbed eyewash stations are designed for portability. These stations combine the stability of a plumbed connection with features like mobility stands, wheelbases, or temporary hook-ups.

 

 

For example, a plumbed station on a rolling cart can be connected to a building’s water supply wherever it’s needed and then moved as necessary. This design is ideal for dynamic work environments where hazards shift locations frequently.

What Are the Requirements for a Plumbed Eyewash Station?

• Flow Rate: Must deliver a controlled, continuous flow of potable water at 0.4 gallons per minute for at least 15 minutes.
• Location: Should be placed within 10 seconds of the hazard, on the same level, and accessible via a clear path.

• Water Temperature: The flushing fluid should be tepid (60°F-100°F) to prevent further eye injury.
• Activation: The unit must be hands-free once activated, allowing continuous operation without manual pressure.
• Drainage: Proper drainage is essential to prevent water buildup and slip hazards.

How Do You Use a Portable Eyewash Station?

1. Locate the unit quickly after exposure.
2. Activate the station, typically by pulling a lever or pushing a plate.
3. Lean over the basin or nozzle and hold your eyes open using your fingers.
4. Flush for a full 15 minutes to remove contaminants.
5. Seek medical evaluation immediately after flushing.

How Do You Clean a Portable Eyewash Station?

1. Empty the tank or container regularly.
2. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Use a mild disinfectant to clean internal surfaces.
4. Rinse again to remove disinfectant residues.
5. Refill with fresh potable water or sterile saline as required.
6. Inspect for leaks, clogs, and wear.
7. Document maintenance activities as part of safety protocols.

What Are the Two Types of Eyewash Stations?

• Plumbed Eyewash Stations: Connected to a continuous water source, offering unlimited water supply. These are ideal for permanent or semi-permanent installations.

• Portable Eyewash Stations: Self-contained units filled with potable water or saline solution. They are easy to relocate and don’t require plumbing connections.

Benefits of Portable Plumbed Eyewash Stations

• Flexibility: Easily moved to match changing worksite hazards.
• Compliance: Meets OSHA and ANSI/ISEA standards while accommodating dynamic work environments.

• Accessibility: Ensures immediate access in high-risk areas that change locations.
• Reduced Downtime: No need for permanent plumbing reinstallation every time a hazard shifts.

A plumbed eyewash station, while traditionally considered fixed, can indeed be portable with the right design features. This flexibility enhances workplace safety in evolving environments. By understanding the requirements, maintenance protocols, and operational differences between plumbed and portable eyewash stations, organizations can ensure swift, compliant, and effective emergency response.

Whether you’re installing a permanent fixture or using a mobile plumbed unit, the priority is clear: ensuring worker safety. Remember to integrate proper maintenance practices and ensure all units meet ANSI/ISEA standards.