One very popular question we get is where are EW/SS’s required and what factors are considered in their placement. We always tell clients and friends that they should utilize ANSI Z358.1 – 2004. Who has $75 to spend on an ANSI standard these days???? So what can we do…turn to another GREAT and FREE resource…OR-OSHA. Yes, I know, it is a state plan; however, some of the state plans actually have more stringent standards, the 29 CFR 1910 & 1926. In the case of EW/SS’s, OR-OSHA has a very detailed standard (OAR 437-002-0161(5), Emergency Eyewash and Shower Facilities) and an even better Directive to go with it. In this directive, we can find much of the actual requirements found in ANSI Z358.1. This directive provides guidelines for determining when an eyewash and/or safety shower is required and assessing the adequacy of such facilities. This directive is a guideline to assist in evaluating each situation for the best approach to protect the employee. It includes an explanation of how to conduct the “Hazard Assessment”, speaks to portable units, fixed units, and the 15-minute water flow requirement, location of EW/SS, Design Specifications for Eyewashes and Showers, Discussion of Acceptable Eyewash and Safety Shower facilities, signs for the EW/SS, lighting around the unit(s), and my favorite – they even give specific cases as to when an EW/SS would be required for: Electric Storage Battery Charging, Chlorine, Anhydrous Ammonia, Pesticides. The directive even explains the requirements for fixed worksites and non-fixed work sites. Keeping in mind that this rule and the requirements ONLY apply to Oregon workplaces, it is still one of the best guides to provide us with some direction in this loosely enforced Federal OSHA requirement. After all, state plans have to be equal to or more stringent than federal OSHA, so if we comply with OAR 437-002-0161(5), Emergency Eyewash and Shower Facilities then we have met or exceeded 1910.151(c).
NOTE: Federal OSHA just issued a LOI on EW/SS’s this week providing instruction as to when and where EW/SS’s may be required.