An eyewash or drench shower may be required depending on the specific workplace environment, the type of material present, and the potential of exposure to a hazardous substance.
For general industry work sites, 29 CFR 1910.151 (c) states:
“Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.”
For construction sites, 29 CFR 1926.50 (g) states:
For battery handling areas, 29 CFR 1926.441 (a) (6) states:
“Facilities for quick drenching of the eyes and body shall be provided within 25 feet (7.62 meters) of battery handling areas.”
Where batteries are charged for powered industrial trucks, cars, etc., an eyewash is required if electrolyte or water is added to cells. If there is no maintenance of the batteries other than charging, then an eyewash station is not required.
For specific workplaces, visit EyewashEquipment.com and look at our Do I Need An Eyewash? guide.