Are there different types of Eyewash/Shower Units available?
The type of unit required depends on the amount of corrosive material that an employee may be exposed to in the course of their job. If only minor splashes are possible, then an eyewash unit is acceptable. If slightly more severe exposures may occur, a combination eye/face wash may be preferred. If the full body could be exposed to a corrosive then a shower unit would also be required. Sometimes these units are combined into one unit, sometimes they are separate. At most water plants, it is assumed that corrosives are stored and used in bulk; therefore, a unit must be available that can drench the employee’s entire body. The ANSI Emergency Eyewash and Shower Standard (2009) provides guidance on proper installation of the various types of units. A combination eyewash/shower unit can be procured to meet the plant’s emergency response provisions. A plumbed eye/face wash must be able to deliver a minimum of 3.0 gallons of water a minute and a plumbed safety shower must be able to provide a
