Page 42 - OHS, FebruaryMarch 2023

EMERGENCY SHOWERS & EYEWASH It is crucial to gain access to an emergency eyewash or shower within the first few seconds of eye or skin exposure. New Models Improve Washdown Coverage Manufacturers are continuously looking for new ways to enhance eyewash station and shower technology, as well as systems for heating water commensurate with the ANSI/ISEA standard. ThThe newest generation of emergency fifixtures is designed to deliver a more uniform and complete spray pattern distribution. Older shower designs push the flow of water to the outer rim of the showerhead, creating a hollow space in the center of the pattern that can miss affected areas. c Shower Equipment, so the injured person can quickly and easily reach the plumbed fixture to immediately drench affected areas.4 To encourage a full and effective flush of the affected area, whether it’s with an eyewash or drench shower, it’s essential— and required—to have direct and on-demand access to tepid water. ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 stipulates that an injured worker remains beneath the drench shower and/or flush their eyes/face for a minimum of 15 minutes to increase the likelihood of a complete and successful treatment and minimize the possibility of inadvertently spreading hazardous material to other areas. Using the latest technology in fluid dynamics, new drench shower designs work in tandem with a pressure-regulated flow control and the spinning motion of water, which creates an optimal spray pattern to rinse off contaminants as quickly and thoroughly as possible. The contoured shape combined with the spinning water funnels the water into a concentrated, yet gentle deluge to ensure the most effective flush available. New eye/face wash designs using this new technology can ensure water is dispersed to all areas of the face, including the forehead, temples and chin. These new types of eye/face washes provide 20 percent better washdown protection than other designs. For tight workspaces, a new eyewash model combines a sink faucet with an eyewash built-in for emergency eyewash use, offering a highly efficient and convenient space-saving solution. During regular faucet use, the eyewash is stored out of the way. 2 2 0 0 1 14 4A Am me er ri ic a an nN N a a t ti i o on n a al lS S t t a a n n d da a r rd d f fo o r rE E m me er r g ge en nc cy y E E y y e e w wa as s h h a an nd d Simplify Your Search for Vendors Find quality products and suppliers in the Occupational Health & Safety Buyers Guide. Search for products, research vendors, connect with suppliers and make confident purchasing decisions all in one place. Visit BuyersGuide.OHSonline.com 42 Occupational Health & Safety | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 Untitled-22 1 www.ohsonline.com 2/1/23 3:25 PM