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1.Accessibility: Stations should be no more than 10 seconds or 55 feet away from hazardous locations, ensuring quick access during emergencies. 2. Clear Signage: Visible signs are cru- cial for rapidly locating the eyewash sta- tion in a crisis. 3. Water Quality and Duration: The units must provide an adequate supply of clean water or eyewash solution, in line with ANSI’s 15-minute flushing requirement. 4. Nozzle Design and Height: Com- plying with ANSI’s guidelines, nozzles should be positioned at an appropriate height, between 33 and 53 inches, and de- signed to prevent further injury. 5. Regular Inspection and Mainte- nance: Consistent checks ensure the sta- tions are functional, clean, and ready for emergency use, a key component of both OSHA and ANSI standards. Where Portable Eyewash Stations Could Have Helped The increase in OSHA penalties has em- phasized the need for compliance with workplace safety regulations, including the provision of emergency eyewash and shower equipment as per the ANSI Z358.1 Standard. Let’s examine a few real-world scenarios where non-compliance with these standards led to significant OSHA citations and how portable eyewash sta- tions could have played a crucial role in preventing these violations. Food Manufacturing Facility: This fa- cility was fined for not having an emer- gency shower or eyewash stations near the area where forklift batteries were charged. With the lack of such safety equipment on both the shipping and receiving docks, the facility faced a proposed penalty of $4,000, which would increase significantly under the new penalty structure. A portable eye- wash station in these areas could have of- fered an immediate solution for eye and skin exposure to corrosive materials from battery acid, thereby aiding in compliance and enhancing worker safety. Logistics Facility: This facility was cited for exposing employees to corrosive anhy- drous ammonia in the engine room without access to a functioning emergency safety shower. The initial fine was $6,000, which would escalate with the new penalty rates. Portable eyewash stations, strategically placed near the engine room, could have pro- videdanimmediateemergencyresponsefor employees, potentially avoiding this citation. Nursery & Garden Center: Initially cited for exposure to hazardous cleaning chemicals, the facility failed to remedy the situation by the time of a re-inspection. The penalty, originally set at $25,000, would now exceed $40,000. The avail- ability of portable eyewash stations could have offered a quick and effective response to chemical exposures, demonstrating the facility’s commitment to rectifying the previously cited issue. In these cases, the lack of adequate emergency response equipment led to substantial fines. Portable eyewash sta- tions could have been a cost-effective and flexible solution to meet the required safety standards. They underscore the im- portance of assessing workplace hazards and ensuring that suitable emergency re- sponse equipment is accessible, especially in industries not typically associated with high-risk chemicals. Future Portable Eyewash Trends and Innovations The future of portable eyewash technol- ogy is shaping up to be an exciting blend of innovation and improved functionality. As we move forward, we can expect to see advancements in materials and design, making units even more durable and suit- able for a variety of harsh environments. Technological integration is likely to play a key role, with features such as automated alerts for maintenance and usage tracking becoming standard. Additionally, there’s a potential for the development of more compact and efficient systems, enhancing portabil- ity without compromising performance. We’re also likely to see a greater emphasis on environmental sustainability, with ad- vancements in water conservation and re- cyclable materials. These innovations will further solidify the role of portable eye- wash stations as an essential component of workplace safety. Herbert Post, raised in Houston in a family who was predominately employed in heavy manufacturing, Herb took a liking to fac- tory processes and later safety compliance where he has spent the last 13 years facili- tating best practices and teaching updated regulations. www.ohsonline.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 37 Ensure your safety showers are compliant and safe. www.greengobblersafety.com