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Are faucet-mounted eyewashes acceptable?
 There is a great
deal of controversy about the applicability of faucet-mounted eyewash devices in the
veterinary profession. As with any other tool, this device has its uses and its
limitations. Here are some common myths and truths about these tools:
Myth #1: These devices are not allowed by OSHA.
- Fact: OSHA does not endorse, mandate or require any specific eyewash device. They
do mandate the existence of an "appropriate eyewash device" when workers are
exposed to hazardous or corrosive chemicals. They will expect any device used to be
effective and safe, and appropriate for the danger.
Myth #2: These devices require more than one "step" to activate them,
therefore, they don't meet OSHA guidelines.
- Fact: Recent testing by NIOSH (OSHA's research arm) affirmed the adequacy of
these devices in very limited hazard situations. In tests, the average person could
activate the unit in less than 1 second - more than adequate for the risk in most
veterinary hospitals.
Myth #3: If you use these eyewashes, you must disconnect the hot water supply to
the faucet.
- Fact: Although the accidental use of hot water in an emergency must be addressed,
disconnecting the hot water supply may be trading one hazard for another. Eyewashes should
deliver an uninterrupted supply of tepid water. In extremely cold areas, the use of cold
water straight from the source may be too uncomfortable for someone to withstand the
required fifteen minutes of flushing. The use of "left-handed" threads on the
hot water side of the faucet or the use of a distinctive hot water handle would alert the
user that they are about to turn the wrong handle. Additionally, it would be unlikely that
a veterinary hospital worker would not have immediate assistance in an accident; therefore
the risk of accidental injury from the hot water is virtually non-existent in this
profession.
 Click
here to view our "Suggested Source Sheet" for eyewashes
More on eyewash devices
The information on these pages is excerpted from
The Complete Veterinary Practice Regulatory Compliance Manual (5th
Edition) by Philip J. Seibert, Jr., CVT,
Copyright 2003 Philip J. Seibert, Jr., CVT All Rights Reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced for distribution without prior permission
from the publisher. |
