Eye-deal eyewash stations?

MMC(SS) Shull

How many times have you, through your daily work routine, passed by emergency eyewash stations on a pier? How many times have you noticed the lack of PMS on the same eyewash stations, or worse yet, the lack of fluid? Were they clearly marked?

Recently we, at the Naval Safety Center, had the misfortune of finding several eyewash stations with the above problems. Take a close look at Figure 1 to the right. My colleague is pointing out the current fluid level. The white sticker directly above his finger is the fill line.

[FIGURE 1 OMITTED]

Let's review some of the basic requirements for maintaining eyewash stations.

IAW OPNAVINST 5100.23F, Navy Occupational Safety and Health (NAVOSH) program manual, all Navy activities with personnel having exposure to eye hazardous operations are required to implement a sight conservation program. Emergency eyewash facilities/stations are a part of this program. All activities are required to service these same eyewash units quarterly or per the manufacturer's recommendations, whichever is more frequent. This maintenance includes, but is not limited to, cleaning the unit, replacement of fluid, and checking for proper operation.

IAW OPNAVINST 5100.19D, approved emergency eyewash equipment shall be capable of flushing the eyes with potable water at a minimum flow rate of 0.4 gallons per minute for 15 continuous minutes. All emergency eyewash equipment must be maintained through the Planned Maintenance System (PMS). Eyewash stations must also be clearly marked with a green sign with white lettering stating "EMERGENCY EYEWASH STATION." The signs must be posted in a visible location close to the eyewash unit.

Report all discrepancies like this to the command safety officer for action. He in turn should report the discrepancy to your squadron. By doing your job, you make their job easier. Remember, they're your eyes: you may not get a second chance.