,'\.

'·
A. mericion ! .••......·,ationa;I
iN'"
d· d !F'or Emergency
Stan'~or:_
Eyewash and . . hower -
Equipment
 ANSI Z358.1-2004
Revision of
ANSI Z358.1-1998

American National Standard for

Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

Secretariat
International Safety Equipment Association

Approved January 8, 2004

American National Standards Institute, Inc.
 An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially
American
concerned with its scope and provisions. An American National Standard is
National intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the consumer, and the general
public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any respect
Standard preclude anyone, whether they have approved the standard or not, from
manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or
procedures not conforming to the standard. American National Standards are
subject to periodic review and users are cautioned to obtain the latest editions.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in
no circumstances give an interpretation of any American National Standard.
Moreover, no persons shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of
an American National Standard in the name of the American National Standards
Institute.

CAUTION NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or

withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards
Institute require that action be taken to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard
no later than five years from the date of publication. Purchasers of American
National Standards may receive current information on all standards by calling or
writing the American National Standards Institute.

Published by

International Safety Equipment Association

1901 North Moore Street, Suite 808, Arlington, Virginia 22209

Copyright 2004 by ISEA

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced

in any form, in an electronic retrieval system or
otherwise, without the prior written permission
of the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America

Foreword (This Foreword is not part of American National Standard ANSI Z358.1-2004)

This revision of the American National Standard for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment updates
t
ANSI Z358.1-1998 and was prepared by the Emergency Eyewash and Shower Group of the International
Safety Equipment Association, whose members are thoroughly knowledgeable in the design, installation,
and use of this important safety equipment. Current members of the Group include: Bradley Corporation,
Bacou-Dalloz/Fendall, Inc., H.L. Bouton Co., Inc., Encon Safety Products, Haws Corporation, North Safety
Products, Speakman Safety Products, and Zee Medical, Inc.

Significant changes to the 1998 version of the standard are reflected in this document, including
emphasis that drench hoses and personal wash units are supplemental equipment and an explanation on
the reason for weekly operation verification for plumbed equipment. The document also provides users
with an expanded appendix on recommended tepid temperatures for flushing fluid and removes certain
criteria from installation requirements.

In the interest of worker safety, it is important to recognize that emergency eyewash, shower, drench hose
and combination units are not a substitute for proper primary protective devices. As a defense against
flying particles and splashing injurious liquids, workers should wear eye and face protection and protective
clothing. Appropriate safety and health advisors should be consulted on proper first aid recommendations
in addition to recommendations on the location and use of emergency eyewash and shower equipment for
specific workplace hazards.

How companies and their employees respond to incidents requiring first aid treatment is an important part
of emergency planning. Consideration should be given to establishing first aid response teams, installing
eyewash and shower alarm devices to alert personnel when first aid equipment is in use, and simulated
emergency response drills to gain valuable experience in performing first aid activities.

Although not addressed in this standard, consideration should also be given to the proper disposal of #J
waste flushing fluids from operating emergency eyewash and shower equipment. Freezing temperatures, .,
drainage from elevated showers and showers at grade level, and pollutants are some but not all of the
considerations. Consult local, state, and federal regulations that may apply.

Suggestions for the improvement of this standard are welcome. They should be sent to the ISEA, 1901 N.
Moore Street, Suite 808, Arlington, VA 22209 or [email protected].

This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the Canvass Method. The following
organizations were contacted prior to the approval of this standard. Inclusion in this list does not
necessarily imply that the organization concurred with the submittal of the proposed standard to ANSI.

AEM, Inc. Lab Safety Supply

American Society of Safety Engineers Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
American Society of Sanitation Engineers Leonard Valve Company
Avecia Inc. Safety Equipment Institute
Du-all Safety St. Louis County Department of Public Works
Haws Corporation State of California Occupational Safety and Health
Hewlett-Packard Administration
International Chemical Workers Union Tufts University School of Medicine
International Safety Equipment Association RG Vanderweil Engineers
SC Johnson Company US Department of Labor
Contents
SECTION PAGE

1. Scope 7
2 Purpose 7
3. Definitions 7
4. Plumbed and Self-Contained Emergency Showers 8
4.1 Performance of Plumbed and Self-Contained Showers 8
4.2 Performance of Control Valve 8
4.3 Shower Enclosures 8
4.4 Performance Testing Procedures 8
4.5 Installation 9
4.6 Maintenance and Training 10
5. Plumbed and Self-Contained Eyewash Equipment... 10
5.1 Performance of Plumbed and Self-Contained Eyewash Units 10
5.2 Performance of Control Valve 10
5.3 Performance Testing Procedures 11
5.4 Installation 11
5.5 Maintenance and Training , , 12
6. Eye/Face Wash Equipment ~.' 12
6.1 Performance of Eye/Face Wash Units 12
6.2 Performance of Control Valve 13
6.3 Performance Testing Procedures , 13
6.4 Installation 13
6.5 Maintenance and Training 14
I.)

7. Combination Units · 14
,\

7.1 Performance of Combination Units ..\ 14

7.2 Performance of Control Valve 14
7.3 Performance Testing Procedures 14
7.4 Installation 14
7.5 Maintenance and Training 15
8. Supplemental Equipment 15
8.1 Personal Wash Units 15
8.1.1 Performance of Personal Wash Units 15
8.1.2 Maintenance, Training and Storage 15
 8.2 Drench Hoses 15
8.2.1 Performance of Drench Hoses 15
8.2.2 Performance of Control Valve 16
8.2.3 Installation 16
8.2.4 Maintenance and Training 16

ILLUSTRATIONS
Illustration 1 Emergency Shower 17
Illustration 2 Plumbed Eyewash 18
Illustration 3a Nonpressurized Self-Contained Eyewash 19
Illustration 3b Pressurized Self-Contained Eyewash 20
Illustration 3c Typical Eyewash Gauge 21
Illustration 4 Eye/Face Wash 22
Illustration 5 Combination Shower and Eyewash 23
Illustration 6 Personal Wasl1 Unit 24
Illustration 7 Drench Hose 25

APPENDICES
Appendix A - Safety Considerations 26
A1. Personal Wash Unit. 26
A2. First Aid Practices 26
A3. Waste Disposal 26
A4. Personal Protective Equipment 26
Appendix 8 - Installation Considerations 26
81. Supply Lines 26
82. Water Capacity 26
83. Valve Operation 26
84. Alarm Devices 26
85. Placement of Emergency Equipment 27
86 Delivered Flushing Fluid Temperature 27

REFERENCES 28
 ANSI 2358.1-2004

American National Standard

for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

1. Scope combination unit: An interconnected assembly

of emergency equipment supplied by a single
source of flushing fluid.
This standard establishes minimum performance
and use requirements for eyewash and shower
drench hose: A supplemental device consisting
equipment for the emergency treatment of the
of a flexible hose connected to a flushing fluid
eyes or body of a person who has been expo~ed
supply and used to provide fluid to irrigate and
to injurious materials. It covers the follOWing
flush face and body areas.
types of equipment: emergency shower,
eyewash equipment, eye/face wash equipment,
emergency shower: A device specifically
and combination shower and eyewash units.
designed and intended to deliver flushing fluid in
sufficient volume to cause that fluid to cascade
This standard also includes performance and
over the entire body.
use requirements for personal washes and
drench hoses, which are considered
supplemental to emergency eyewash and eye/face wash: A device used to provide fluid to
shower equipment. irrigate and flush both the face and the eyes
simultaneously.
2. Purpose
eyewash: A device used to provide fluid to
irrigate and flush the eyes.
This standard is intended to provide uniform
minimum requirements for the performance,
flow pressure: The pressure in the water supply
use, installation, test procedures, maintenance
pipe near the water outlet while the faucet or
and training of emergency eyewash and shower
outlet is fUlly open and flowing.
equipment
flow regulator: A me"chanical device to control
the flow of flushing fluid through pipes.
3. Definitions
flushing fluid: Potable water, preserved water,
certification/certified: A system whereby a preserved buffered ,saline solution or other
certification organization determines that a medically acceptable solution manufactured and
manufacturer has demonstrated the ability to labeled in accordance with applicable
produce a product that complies with the government regulations.
requirements of this standard, authorizes the
manufacturer to use a label on listed products freeze protected equipment:" Equipment
that comply with the requirements of this designed to allow the e'rr\ergency device ,to
standard, and establishes a follow-up program operate under freezing conditions. "
conducted by the certification organization as a
check on the methods the manufacturer uses to freeze protection: A means to protect water in
determine continued compliance of labeled and an apparatus from freezing and rendering it
listed products with the requirements of this inoperable. This can be achieved through
standard. several means including mechanical valves and
electrical heat tracing.
certification organization: An independent
third party organization that determines product hazardous material: Any substance or
compliance with the requirements of this compound that has the capability of producing
standard with a labeling/listing/follow-up adverse effects on the health and safety of
program. humans.

c
"~

Page 7
ANSI Z358.1-2004

personal wash: A supplementary device that valves are installed in the supply line for
supports plumbed and/or self-contained units, by maintenance purposes, provisions shall be made
delivering immediate flushing fluid to the eyes or to prevent unauthorized shut off.
body.
4.1.5 The spray pattern shall have a minimum
potable water: Water that is suitable for diameter of 50.8 cm (20 in.) at 152.4 cm (60 in.)
drinking. above the surface on which the user stands, and
the center of the spray pattern shall be located at
self-closing valve: A valve that closes least 40.6 cm (16 in.) from any obstruction. The
automatically when released by the user. flushing fluid shall be substantially dispersed
throughout the pattern.
self-contained eyewash: A stand-alone
eyewash device containing flushing fluid. NOTE: The eyewash section of a combination
shower/eyewash station is not considered an
"obstruction" in this context to allow for simultaneous
self-contained shower: A stand-alone shower
use of shower and eyewash equipment. See Section
containing flushing fluid. 7.

stay-open valve: A valve that, once activated, 4.2 Performance of Control Valve
must be closed manually by the user.
The valve shall remain open without the use of
tepid: Moderately warm; lukewarm. the operator's hands until intentionally closed.
The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go
valve actuator: Device connected to the valve from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less. The valve
to facilitate its operation. -' shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and
readily accessible to the user. Valve actuators
4. Plumbed and Self-Contained shall be located not more than 173.3 cm (69 in.)
Emergency Showers (See Illustration 1) above the level on which the user stands.

4.1 Performance of Plumbed and Self- ~3 Shower Enclosures

Contained Showers
Enclosures, if used, shall provide for a minimum
4.1 .1 A means shall be provided to ensure unobstructed area of 86.4 cm (34 in.) in
that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided diameter.
at a velocity low enough to be non-injurious to
the user. 4.4 Performance Testing Procedures

4.1.2 Emergency showers shall be designed 4.4.1 Plumbed Emergency Showers

and located so that a flushing fluid column is
provided that is not less than 208.3 cm (82 in.) Plumbed emergency showers shall be certified
nor more that 243.8 cm (96 in.) in height from as follows:
the surface on which the user stands.
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the shower to be
4.1.3 Plumbed and self-contained shower tested, or provide other means of measuring
equipment shall be constructed of materials that flushing fluid flow.
will not corrode in the presence of the flushing
fluid. Stored flushing fluid shall be protected (2) Attach the shower to an uninterruptible
against airborne contaminants. flushing fluid supply of 75.7 liters per minute
(20 gpm) at 30 psi. The shower head's
4.1.4 Plumbed and self contained shower height shall be not less than 208.3 cm (82
equipment shall be capable of delivering flushing in.) nor more that 243.8 cm (96 in.) from the
fluid at a minimum of 75.7 liters per minute (20 surface on which the user stands. The
gpm) for a minimum of 15 minutes. If shut off

Page 8
 ANSI 2358.1-2004

flushing fluid supply shall have a control shall be located on the same level as the hazard
valve or pump system that can be adjusted. and the path of travel shall be free of
obstructions that may inhibit the immediate use
(3) Open the valve on the emergency of the equipment. (See Appendix B5)
shower and verify that it opens in one
second and stays open. 4.5.3 Be located in an area identified with a
highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
(4) Adjust the control valve on the flushing visible within the area served by the shower.
fluid supply to deliver a minimum of 75.7 The area around the emergency shower shall be
liters per minute (20 gpm), and determine well-lit.
that flushing fluid is substantially dispersed
throughout the pattern. Measure the 4.5.4 Be positioned so that the shower head is
diameter of the flushing fluid pattern 152.4 not less than 208.3 cm (82 in.) nor more than
cm (60 in.) above the surface on which the 243.8 cm (96 in.) from the surface on which the
user stands. The diameter shall be a user stands.
minimum of 50.8 cm (20 in.).
4.5.5 Be connected to a supply of flushing
4.4.2 Self-contained Emergency Showers fluid capable of delivering a minimum of 20 gpm
to produce the required spray pattern for a
Self-contained emergency showers shall be minimum period of fifteen minutes. Where the
certified as follows: possibility of freezing conditions exists,
equipment shall be protected from freezing or
(1) Fill the unit with flushing solution. freeze-protected equipment shall be installed. If
shut off valves are installed in the shower line for
(2) Connect a flowmeter to the shower to be maintenance purposes, provisions shall be made
tested or provide other means of measuring to prevent unauthorized shut off.
flushing fluid flow.
4.5.6 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
(3) Place the unit in operating position. The circumstances where chemical reaction is
shower head's height shall be not less than accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
208.3 cm (82 in.) nor more that 243.8 cm facilities safety/health advisor should be
(96 in.) from the surface on which the user consulted for the optimum temperature for each
stands. application. (See App~ndix B6)

(4) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure 4.5.7 When the ,shower is installed, its
that the unit is capable of delivering a performance shall be verified in accordance with
minimum of 75.7 liters per minute (20 gpm) the following procedures:
and that the flushing fluid is substantially
dispersed throughout the pattern. The (1) With the unit p,orrectly connected to the
diameter of the spray pattern shall be 50.8 flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed,
(20 in.) at a point 152.4 cm (60 in.) above visually check the prp~ng connections for
the surface on which the user stands. leaks. .

(2) Open the valve to the full open position.

4.5 Installation
The valve shall remain open without
requiring further use of the operator's hands.
It is the installer's responsibility to ensure that
emergency showers shall: (3) With the valve in the "full on" position,
measure the diameter of the spray pattern.
4.5.1 Be assembled and installed in It shall be a minimum of 50.8 cm (20 in.) at
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. 152.4 cm (60 in.) above the standing
surface. The center of the spray shall be at
4.5.2 Be in accessible locations that require least 40.6 cm (16 in.) from any obstructions.
no more than 10 seconds to reach. The shower

L
Page 9
ANSI Z358.1-2004

The flushing fluid shall be substantially 5.1.2 The eyewash unit shall be designed and
dispersed throughout the pattern. positioned in such a way as to pose no hazard to
the user.
(4) Using the flowmeter or other means,
determine that the rate of flow is at least 5.1.3 Nozzles shall be protected from airborne
75.7 liters per minute (20 gpm). contaminants. Whatever means is used to
afford such protection, its removal shall not
4.6 Maintenance and Training require a separate motion by the operator when
activating the unit.
4.6.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
inspection and maintenance instructions with 5.1.4 The eyewash unit shall be designed,
shower equipment. Instructions for all manufactured and installed in such a manner
emergency equipment shall be readily that, once activated, it can be used without
accessible to maintenance and training requiring the use of the operator's hands.
personnel.
5.1.5 Plumbed and self-contained units shall
4.6.2 Plumbed shower equipment shall be be constructed of materials that will not corrode
activated weekly for a period long enough to in the presence of the flushing fluid. Stored
verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is flushing fluid shall be protected against airborne
available. contaminants.

NOTE: The intent is to ensure that there is a flushing 5.1.6 Plumbed and self contained eyewash
fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the equipment shall be capable of delivering flushing
supply line of any sediment build-up thaJ: could fluid to the eyes not less than 1.5 liters per
prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the minute (0.4 gpm) for 15 minutes. If shut off
device and minimize microbial contamination due to
valves are installed in the supply line for
sitting water.
maintenance purposes, provisions shall be made
4.6.3 Self-contained shower equipment shall to prevent unauthorized shut off.
be visually checked to determine if flushing fluid
needs to be changed or supplemented. 5.1.7 The eyewash unit shall be designed to
provide enough room to allow the eyelids to be
4.6.4 Employees who may be exposed to held open with the hands while the eyes are in
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the the flushing fluid stream.
location and proper use of emergency shower
5.1.8 The eyewash unit shall provide flushing
units.
fluid to both eyes simultaneously. A test gauge
4.6.5 All shower units shall be inspected for making determination of a suitable eyewash
annually to assure conformance with ANSI pattern shall be a minimum 10.16 cm (4 in.) in
Z358.1 Section 4 requirements. length with two sets of parallel lines equidistant
from the center (See Illustration 3c). The interior
set of lines shall be 3.18 cm (1.25 in.) apart and
the exterior lines shall be 8.26 cm (3.25 in.)
5. Plumbed and Self-Contained
apart. Place the gauge on top of the stream of
Eyewash Equipment (See Illustrations 2, the eyewash. The flushing fluid should cover the
3a,3b) areas between the interior and exterior lines
when the gauge is lowered not more than 3.81
5.1 Performance of Plumbed and Self- cm (1.5 in.) below the fluid's peak.
Contained Eyewash Units
5.2 Performance of Control Valve·
5.1.1 A means shall be provided to ensure
that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided The valve shall remain open without the use of
to both eyes simultaneously at a velocity low the operator's hands until intentionally closed.
enough to be non-injurious to the user. The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go
from "off' to "on" in 1 second or less. The valve

Page 10
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or 5.4 Installation

c automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and

readily accessible to the user. It is the installer's responsibility to ensure that
eyewash units shall:
5.3 Performance Testing Procedures
5.4.1 Be assembled and installed in
5.3.1 Plumbed Eyewash Units accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Plumbed eyewash units shall be certified as 5.4.2 Be in accessible. locations that require
follows: no more than 10 seconds to reach. The
eyewash unit shall be located on the same level
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the eyewash unit as the hazard and the path of travel shall be free
to be tested, or provide other means of of obstructions that may inhibit the immediate
measuring flushing fluid flow. use of the equipment. For a strong acid or
strong caustic, the eyewash should be
(2) Attach the eyewash to an uninterruptible immediately adjacent to the hazard. (See
flushing fluid supply of 1.5 liters per minute Appendix B5)
(0.4 gpm) at 30 psi.
5.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
(3) Open the valve on the eyewash unit and highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
verify that it opens in one second and stays visible within the area served by the eyewash.
open. The area around the eyewash shall be well-lit.

(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, 5.4.4 Be positioned with the flushing fluid
determine that the rate of flow is at least 1.5 nozzles not less than 83.8 em (33 in.) and no
liters per minute (0.4 gpm) that the flushing greater than 114.3 em (45 in.) from the surface
streams rise to approximately equal heights, on which the user stands and 15.3 em (6 in.)
and that the flushing fluid will wash both minimum from the wall or the nearest
eyes simultaneously at a velocity low enough obstruction.
to be non-injurious to the user.
5.4.5 Be connected'to a supply line providing
5.3.2 Self-contained Eyewash Units an uninterruptible supply of flusning fluid at a
minimum 1.5 liters perminute (0.4 gpm). Where
Self-contained units shall be certified. For the possibility of freezing conditions exist,
example: equipment shall be protected from freezing or
freeze-protected equipment shall be installed. If
(1) Position the emergency eyewash unit in shut off valves are installed in the supply line for
the operating position so that the discharged maintenance purposes, provisions shall be made
flushing fluid can be collected. Fill the unit to prevent unauthorizeq shut off.
with flushing fluid.
5.4.6 Deliver tepid fftJ~hing fluid. In
(2) Open the valve on the eyewash unit and circumstances where chemical reaction, is
verify that it opens in one second and stays accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
open. facilities safety/health advisor should be
consulted for the optimum temperature for each
(3) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure application. (See Appendix B6)
that the unit is capable of delivering a
minimum of 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gpm) 5.4.7 When the plumbed eyewash is installed,
and that the flushing fluid meets the its performance shall be verified in accordance
minimum flow characteristics as measured with the following procedures:
with the eyewash gauge represented in
Illustration 3c. (1) With the unit correctly connected to the
flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed,
visually check the piping connections for
leaks.

Page 11
ANSI Z358.1-2004

(2) Open the valve to the full open position. 6. Eye/Face Wash Equipment (See
The valve shall remain open without Illustration 4)
requiring further use of the operator's hands. (
6.1 Performance of Eye/Face Wash Units
(3) With the valve in the "full on" position,
make sure that both eyes will be washed 6.1.1 A means shall be provided to ensure
simultaneously at a velocity low enough to that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided
be non-injurious to the user. to both eyes and face simultaneously at a
velocity low enough to be non- injurious to the
(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, user.
determine that the rate of flow is at least 1.5
liters per minute (0.4 gpm). A test gauge 6.1.2 The eye/face wash units shall be
similar to the one pictured in Illustration 3c designed and positioned in such a way as to
can be used to verify minimum flow pose no hazard to the user.
characteristics.
6.1.3 Nozzles shall be protected from airborne
5.5 Maintenance and Training contaminants. Whatever means is used to
afford such protection, its removal shall not
5.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation, require a separate motion by the operator when
inspection and maintenance instructions with activating the unit.
eyewash equipment. Instructions for all
emergency equipment shall be readily 6.1.4 The eye/face wash unit shall be
accessible to maintenance and inspection designed, manufactured and installed in such a
personnel. manner that, once activated, it can be used
without requiring the use of the operator's hands.
5.5.2 Plumbed eyewash equipment shall be
activated weekly for a period long enough to 6.1.5 Eye/face wash units shall be constructed
verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is of materials that will not corrode in the presence
available. of the flushing fluid. Stored flushing fluid shall be
protected against airborne contaminants.
NOTE: The intent is to ensure that there is a flushing
fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the
supply line of any sediment build-up that could
6.1.6 Eye/face wash equipment shall be
prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the capable of delivering flushing fluid to the eyes
device and minimize microbial contamination due to not less than 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm) for
sitting water. 15 minutes. If shut off valves are installed in the
line for maintenance purposes, provisions shall
5.5.3 Self-contained eyewash equipment shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
be visually checked to determine if flushing fluid
needs to be changed or supplemented. 6.1.7 The eye/face wash unit shall be
designed to provide enough room to allow the
5.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to eyelids to be held open with the hands while the
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the eyes are in the flushing fluid stream.
location and proper use of emergency eyewash
units. 6.1.8 The eye/face wash unit shall provide
flushing fluid to both eyes simultaneously. A test
5.5.5 All eyewash units shall be inspected gauge for making determination of a suitable
annually to assure conformance with ANSI eyewash pattern shall be a minimum 10.16 cm
Z358.1 section 5 requirements. (4 in.) in length with two sets of parallel lines
equidistant from the center (See Illustration 3c).
The interior set of lines shall be 3.18 cm (1.25
in.) apart and the exterior lines shall be 8.26 cm
(3.25 in.) apart. Place the gauge on top of the
stream of the eyewash. The flushing fluid should

Page 12
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

cover the areas between the interior and exterior 6.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
lines when the gauge is lowered not more than highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
3.81 em (1.5 in.) below the fluid's peak. visible within the area served by eye/face wash.
The area around the eye/face wash shall be
6.2 Performance of Control Valve well-lit.

The valve shall remain open without the use of 6.4.4 The unit shall be positioned with the
the operator's hands until intentionally closed. nozzle(s) not less than 83.8 em (33 in.) and no
The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go greater than 114.3 em (45 in.) from the level on
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less. The valve which the user stands and 15.3 em (6 in.)
shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or minimum from the wall or nearest obstruction.
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and
readily accessible to the user. 6.4.5 Be connected to a supply line providing
an uninterruptible supply of flushing fluid at a
6.3 Performance Testing Procedures minimum 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm).
Where the possibility of freezing conditions
Eye/face wash units shall be certified as follows: exists, equipment shall be protected from
freezing or freeze-protected equipment shall be
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the eye/face installed. If shut off valves are installed in the
wash to be tested, or provide other means of supply line for maintenance purposes, provisions
measuring flushing fluid flow. shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
(2) Attach the eye/face wash to an
uninterruptible flushing fluid supply of 11.4 6.4.6 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
liters per minute (3.0 gpm) at 30 psi. circumstances where chemical reaction is
accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
(3) Open the valve on the eye/face wash unit facilities safety/health advisor should be
and verify that it opens in one second and consulted for the optimum temperature for each
stays open. application. (See Appendix B6)

(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, 6.4.7 When the plumbed eye/face wash is
determine that the rate of flow is at least installed, its performance shall be verified in
11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm), that the accordance with the following procedures:
flushing streams rise to approximately equal
heights, and that the flushing fluid will wash (1) With the unit correctly connected to the
both eyes simultaneously at a velocity low flushing fluid sour,ce and the valve(s) closed,
enough to be non-injurious to the user. visually check the piping connections for
leaks.
6.4 Installation
(2) Open the valv~ to the full open position.
It is the installer's responsibility to ensure that The valve shah remain open without
eye/face wash units shall: requiring further use oftpe operator's hands.

6.4.1 Be assembled and installed in (3) With the valve in the "full on" position
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. make sure that both eyes will be washed
simultaneously at a velocity low enough to
6.4.2 Be in accessible locations that require be non-injurious to the user.
no more than 10 seconds to reach. The eye/face
wash shall be located on the same level as the (4) Using the flowmeter or other means,
hazard and the path of travel shall be free of determine that the rate of flow is at least
obstructions that may inhibit the immediate use 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm). A test
of the equipment. For a strong acid or strong gauge similar to the one pictured in
caustic, the eye/face wash should be Illustration 3c can be used to verify minimum
immediately adjacent to the hazard. (See flow characteristics.
Appendix B5)

c
Page 13
ANSI 2358.1-2004

6.5 Maintenance and Training depending on which of the components listed in

Section 7.1 are included.
6.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation, (
inspection and maintenance instructions with 7.3 Performance Testing Procedures
eye/face wash equipment. Instructions for all
emergency equipment shall be readily Each part of the unit individually shall be certified
accessible to maintenance and inspection in accordance with the procedures outlined in
personnel. Sections 4, 5, and 6, depending on which of the
components listed in Section 7.1 are included.
6.5.2 Plumbed equipment shall be activated
weekly for a period long enough to verify 7.4 Installation
operation and ensure that flushing fluid is
available. It is the installer's responsibility to ensure that
combination units shall:
NOTE: The intent is to ensure that there is a flushing
fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the 7.4.1 Be assembled and installed in
supply line of any sediment build-up that could accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the
device and minimize microbial contamination due to
sitting water. 7.4.2 Be in accessible locations that require
6.5.3 Self-contained eye/face wash equipment no more than 10 seconds to reach. The
shall be visually checked to determine if flushing combination unit shall be located on the same
fluid needs to be changed or supplemented. level as the hazard and the path of travel shall
be free of obstructions that may inhibit the
6.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to immediate use of the equipment.
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the
location and proper use of eye/face wash units. 7.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
6.5.5 All eye/face wash units shall be visible within the area served by the combination
inspected annually to assure conformance with unit. The area around the combination unit shall
ANSI 2358.1 section 6 requirements. be well-lit.

7.4.4 Be connected to a system capable of

supplying adequate flushing fluid to meet the
7. Combination Units (See
requirements of each component as outlined in
Illustration 5) Sections 4, 5, and 6, when all components are
operated simultaneously. Combination unit
7.1 Performance of Combination Units components shall be positioned so that
components may be used simultaneously by the
7.1.1 Showers shall meet the performance same user. Where the possibility of freezing
requirements of Section 4. conditions exists, equipment shall be protected
from freezing or freeze-protected equipment
7.1.2 Eyewash units shall meet the shall be installed.
performance requirements of Section 5.
7.4.5 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
7.1.3 Eye/face wash units shall meet the circumstances where chemical reaction is
performance requirements of Section 6. accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
facilities safety/health advisor should be
7.1.4 Hand-held drench hoses shall meet the consulted for the optimum temperature for each
performance requirements of Section 8.2. application. (See Appendix B6)
7.2 Performance of Control Valve 7.4.6 When the combination unit is installed,
its performance shall be verified in accordance
Each valve shall meet the applicable with the following procedures:
requirements of Sections 4, 5, 6, and 8.2.2,

Page 14
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

(1) With the unit correctly connected to the and self-contained equipment but shall not
flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed, replace them.
visually check the piping connections for
leaks. 8.1. Personal Wash Units (See Illustration
6)
(2) Open the shower and eyewash or
eye/face wash valves to the full open 8.1.1 Performance of Personal Wash Units
position. The valves shall remain open
without requiring further use of the operator's 8.1.1.1 Personal wash units shall have the
hands. capacity to deliver immediate flushing fluid
without being injurious to the user. Personal
(3) Activate the valves and check the wash units do not meet the criteria of plumbed or
performance of the shower, eyewash and self-contained eyewash equipment.
eye/face wash valves as described in
Sections 4.5.7, 5.4.7 and 6.4.7 respectively, 8.1.1.2 Personal wash units shall deliver tepid
while operating simultaneously. flushing fluid. In circumstances where chemical
reaction is accelerated by flushing fluid
7.5 Maintenance and Training temperature, a facilities safety/health advisor
should be consulted for the optimum
7.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation, temperature for each application. (See Appendix
inspection and maintenance instructions with 86)
combination equipment. Instructions for all
emergency equipment shall be readily 8.1.1.3 Instructions and expiration date shall be
accessible to maintenance and inspection permanently affixed to the unit.
personnel.
8.1.2 Maintenance, Training and Storage
7.5.2 Plumbed equipment shall be activated
weekly for a period long enough to verify 8.1.2.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
c~ operation and ensure that flushing fluid is
available.
inspection and maintenance instructions with
personal wash units. Instructions for all
emergency equipment shall be readily
NOTE: The intent is to ensure that there is a flushing accessible to maintenance' and inspection
fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the personnel.
supply line of any sediment build-up that could
prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the
device and minimize microbial contamination due to 8.1.2.2 All personal, wash units shall be
sitting water. inspected and maintained in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions.
7.5.3 Self-contained combination units shall
be visually checked to determine if flushing fluid 8.1.2.3 Employees sh~1I be instructed in the
needs to be changed or supplemented. location, proper use and application of personal
wash units.
7.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the 8.1.2.4 All personal wash units shall be
location and proper use of combination units. inspected annually to assure conformance with
ANSI Z358.1 Section 8.1 requirements.
7.5.5 All combination units shall be inspected
annually to assure conformance with ANSI 8.2 Drench Hoses (See Illustration 7)
Z358.1 Section 7 requirements.
8.2.1 Performance of Drench Hoses

8. Supplemental Equipment Drench hoses shall be designed to provide a

controlled flow of flushing fluid to a portion of the
body at a velocity low enough to be non-injurious
The supplemental equipment listed below shall
to the user.
provide immediate flushing to support plumbed

Page 15
ANSI Z358.1-2004

NOTE: A drench hose may be considered an NOTE: The intent is to ensure that there is a flushing
eyewash or eye/face wash if the device meets the fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the
performance requirements of Section 5 and/or supply line of any sediment build-up that could (
Section 6. prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the
device and minimize microbial contamination due to
8.2.2 Performance of Control Valve sitting water.

The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go 8.2.4.3 Employees who may be exposed to
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less. The valve hazardous materials shall be instructed in the
shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or location and proper use of drench hose units.
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and
readily accessible to the user.

8.2.3 Installation

It is the installer's responsibility to ensure that

drench hoses shall:

8.2.3.1 Be assembled and installed in

accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

8.2.3.2 Be located in an area identified with a

highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
visible within the area served by the drench
hose. The area around the drench hose shall be
well-lit, and free of debris that may inhibit the
immediate use of the equipment.

8.2.3.3 The unit shall be connected to a supply

of flushing fluid. Where the possibility of freezing
conditions exists, equipment shall be protected
from freezing or freeze-protected equipment
shall be installed.

8.2.3.4 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In

circumstances where chemical reaction is
accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
facilities safety/health advisor should be
consulted for the optimum temperature for each
application.

8.2.4 Maintenance and Training

8.2.4.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,

inspection and maintenance instructions with
drench hose equipment. Instructions for all
emergency equipment shall be readily
accessible to maintenance and inspection
personnel.

8.2.4.2 Plumbed equipment shall be activated

weekly for a period long enough to verify
operation and ensure that flushing fluid is
available.

Page 16
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

,__,_, _,_t.===~=~

I \
I \
I \
,I \
\
,I \
I \
I \
,
i
\
\
\
I \
,,\
,1
L_,~ 20 incl> (50;8Cm) ,,\
,~~, - -)~'~-

&~,,9~ln,
(208~28¢1Yl"
243.84 em)

:agio
(17~i·~'cm)
MAX"
6010
(152.4cm)

\)

Illustration 1

c Emergency Shower

Page 17
ANSI 2358.1-2004

(
MINIMUM OlSTANOE.
·FROMWAkL
OR OBSTRUCTION
.... ~_6.in =--.....

33 in~45in
HEIGhtT FROM FLOOR

Illustration 2
Plumbed Eyewash
(

Page 18
 ANSI 2358.1-2004

Illustration 3a
Nonpressurized Self-Contained EyeWash

Page 19
ANSI 2358.1-2004

Illustration 3b
Pressurized Self-Contained Eyewash

Page 20
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

t.25 'in
'(3:'fSctn)

Illustration 3c
Typical Eyewash Gauge

Page 21
ANSI Z358.1-2004

Illustration 4
Eye/Face Wash

Page 22
 ANSI Z358.1-2004

33' .4S'

Illustration 5
Combination Shower and Eyewash

Page 23
ANSI Z358.1-2004

Illustration 6
Personal Wash Units

Page 24
 ANSI 2358.1-2004

Illustration 7
Drench Hose

Page 25
ANSI Z358.1-2004

Appendices (The appendices are not part of American National Standard Z358.1-2004, but are
included for information only.)

APPENDIX A - SAFETY APPENDIX B -INSTALLATION

CONSIDERATIONS CONSIDERATIONS

A1. Personal Wash Unit

61. Supply Lines
The first seconds following an eye injury are
Installation procedures should be in accordance
often critical to keeping eye injury to a minimum.
with proper plumbing practices and supply piping
A personal wash unit may be kep~ in. the
adequately sized to meet flow requirements. If
immediate vicinity of employees working In a
shut off valves are installed for maintenance
potentially hazardous a~ea. T~e main p.urpose.of
purposes, provisions should be made to prevent
these units is to supply Immediate flushing. With
unauthorized shutoff.
this accomplished, the injured .individual should
then proceed to a plumbed or self-contained
62. Water Capacity
eyewash and flush the eyes for the required 15-
minute period.
It will .be notedthrel.Jghoyt ANSI Z358.1-2004
that minimum water capacities are rated at an
A2. First Aid Practices
inlet supply pressure of 0.207 megapascals (30
Ib.lsq.in} . This inlet pressure is below w~at is
A physician or other appropriate professional
normally considered a proper level for deSign of
should provide guidance on specific workplace
plumbing systems (0.310 megapascals [45
hazards and should provide instruction on the
Ib.lsq. in.]), but has been chosen because
use of emergency eyewash and shower
meeting the installation requirements may place
equipment.
units at unusual distances from and elevations
above normal supply lines. In such cases, it is
A3. Waste Disposal
the responsibility of the designer and owner to
ensure proper flushing fluid delivery at possible
Consideration should be given to the proper
low points of pressure in the plumbing system.
disposal of waste flushing fluids from operating
Excess pressure can deliver water to the
emergency eyewash and shower equipment.
equipment at velocities that could injure the u?er
Freezing temperatures, drainage, elevated
or render the equipment inoperable. Caution
showers and pollutants are some, but not all, of should be exercised with pressures over 0.552
the considerations. Consult authorities for
megapascals (80 Ib.lsq. in.).
assistance with applicable local, state and
federal regulations.
63. Valve Operation
A4. Personal Protective Equipment
In the interest of safety, a control valve
remaining open is most desirable to allow the
Emergency eyewash, shower, drench hose
user the use of both hands for disrobing or
and combination units are not substitutes for
holding the eyes open. However, a self-closing
proper primary protective devices. As a
valve may be permitted in a school laboratory
defense against flying solid particles and
situation as a limited exception only where the
splashing injurious liquids, workers should
enforcing authority is of the opinion that the
wear personal protective equipment as
hazard posed is not a serious threat.
needed, including eye protection, face
protection and protective clothing.
64. Alarm Devices

In addition to the equipment identification

required by ANSI Z358.1-2004, users may also

Page 26
 ANSI 2358.1-2004

want to use audible alarms or blinking lights to exposure to highly corrosive chemicals, the
indicate that the unit is in operation. These are appropriate professional should be contacted for
particularly important in remote areas. Many advice on the proper distances. Equipment
companies connect valves electrically to warning should be located adjacent to the hazard, but
lights or buzzers in central dispatch areas to alert situated in such a manner such that exposure to
the appropriate authorities when the unit is in the splash hazard or other hazards (e.g.,
use. exposed electrical conductors) does not occur
while using the eyewash.
85. Placement of Emergency Equipment
86. Delivered Flushing Fluid Temperature
Emergency eyewash and shower equipment
should be available for immediate use, but in no Continuous and timely irrigation of affected
instance should it take an individual longer than tissues for the recommended irrigation period
10 seconds to reach the nearest facility. are the principal factors in providing first aid
treatment. Providing flushing fluid at
There are several factors that might influence temperatures conducive to use for the
the location of emergency facilities. It is recommended irrigation period is considered an
recognized that the average person covers a integral part of providing suitable facilities.
distance of approximately 55 ft. in 10 seconds Medical recommendations suggest a flushing
when walking at a normal pace. The physical fluid at tepid temperatures be delivered to
and emotional state of a potential victim (visually affected chemically-injured tissue. Tempera-
impaired, with some level of discomfort/pain, and tures in excess of 38°C (100°F) have proven to
possibly in a state of panic) should be be harmful to the eyes and can enhance
considered along with the likelihood of personnel chemical interaction with the eyes and skin.
in the immediate area to assist. The installer
should also consider other potential hazards that While cold flushing fluid temperatures provide
may be adjacent to the path of travel that might immediate cooling after chemical contact,
cause further injury. prolonged exposure to cold fluids affect the
ability to maintain adequate body, temperature
A door is considered to be an obstruction. and can result in the premature cessation of first
Where the hazard is not corrosive, one aid treatment. Recent information indicates that
intervening door can be present so long as it a temperature of 60°F is suitable/·for the lower
opens in the same direction of travel as the parameter for tepid flushing fluid without causing
person attempting to reach the emergency hypothermia to the equipment user.
equipment and the door is equipped with a
closing mechanism that cannot be locked to
impede access to the equipment.

In situations that might warrant the placement of

flushing equipment close to the hazard, such as

Page 27
ANSI Z358.1-2004

REFERENCES
Independent study results: Placement
Dimension Verification, provided by Anthrotech,
Yellow Springs, OH, 2002

Clinical Ophthalmology, Harper & Row, 1992,

Vol. 2, Chapter 21

Human Engineering Guide to Equipment Design,

Woodson, W. E. and Conover, D. W., Army,
Navy, Air Force Steering Committee, United
States Government, 1972

Human Engineering Guide for Equipment

Designers, University of California Press, 1964,
/2nd ed. \
I'

United States Flight Swgeon's Manual, Chapter

20, 1991 ,Third ed.

United States Coast Guard lifesaving and fire

safety standards for ,commercial ships and
recreational boats - Cold Water Survival

.~I

Page 28