How Often Do Plumbed Eyewash Stations Need To Be Checked?

If you manage a lab, factory, or any facility handling hazardous chemicals, you know that safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. One critical—but often overlooked—component is the plumbed eyewash station. But here’s the real question on every safety officer’s mind: how often do plumbed eyewash stations need to be checked? The answer could mean the difference between a minor incident and a life-altering injury. Let’s break it down clearly, step by step.

What Are Plumbed Eyewash Stations?

Plumbed eyewash stations are permanently connected to a continuous source of potable water, designed to flush contaminants from eyes immediately after exposure to hazardous substances. Unlike portable or self-contained units, they rely on building plumbing and require regular maintenance to ensure reliability.

According to the ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 standard—the gold standard for emergency eyewash and shower equipment in the U.S.—these stations must deliver tepid water (60–100°F / 16–38°C) at a controlled flow for at least 15 minutes.

💡 Did you know? Over 2,000 U.S. workers suffer eye injuries daily that require medical attention, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many of these could be mitigated with properly functioning emergency equipment.

How Often Do Plumbed Eyewash Stations Need To Be Checked? (The Short Answer)

Plumbed eyewash stations must be activated and tested weekly.

Yes—every single week. This isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a requirement under ANSI Z358.1 and strongly enforced by OSHA through the General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act).

Why weekly? Because stagnant water in pipes can:

• Breed harmful bacteria (like Legionella)
• Accumulate sediment or rust
• Cause valve failure due to mineral buildup

A weekly flush ensures clean, flowing water is ready when seconds count.

What Does a Weekly Eyewash Test Involve?

Testing isn’t complicated, but it must be thorough. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Activate the unit for at least 30–60 seconds.
2. Check water flow: Should be consistent, non-turbulent, and cover both eyes simultaneously.
3. Verify water temperature: Use a thermometer. Ideal range: 60–100°F (16–38°C). Water outside this range may cause hypothermia or scalding—or worse, deter users from flushing long enough.
4. Inspect for obstructions: Ensure no debris, dust covers, or storage items block access.
5. Document the test: Record date, time, tester name, and any issues found. (OSHA may request logs during inspections.)

✅ Pro Tip: Assign a responsible team member and use a digital checklist app (like iAuditor or SafetyCulture) to automate reminders and documentation.

What About Annual Inspections?

In addition to weekly checks, ANSI requires a comprehensive annual inspection. This deeper evaluation includes:

• Full 15-minute activation test
• Flow rate verification (minimum 0.4 gallons per minute per eyewash nozzle)
• Height and positioning check (nozzles 33–53 inches from floor)
• Verification of unobstructed access within 10 seconds of hazard
• Inspection of valves, filters, and supply lines

Many facilities hire third-party safety auditors for this, but trained in-house staff can also perform it if properly qualified.

Consequences of Neglecting Eyewash Maintenance

Failing to maintain eyewash stations isn’t just risky—it’s costly. Consider this real-world example:

In 2022, a chemical plant in Texas was fined $147,000 by OSHA after an employee suffered permanent eye damage. The investigation revealed the nearest eyewash hadn’t been tested in over 6 months and delivered only lukewarm, low-pressure water.

Beyond fines, non-compliance can lead to:

• Increased insurance premiums
• Lawsuits from injured employees
• Reputational damage
• Loss of operating licenses in extreme cases

Common Misconceptions About Eyewash Testing

Let’s clear up some myths:

For more on standards, see the ANSI Z358.1 overview on Wikipedia.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is weekly testing required by law?

While OSHA doesn’t cite ANSI Z358.1 directly, it enforces emergency equipment readiness under the General Duty Clause. Courts consistently uphold ANSI as the recognized industry standard—making weekly testing a de facto legal requirement.

Q2: Can I skip testing if the station was used recently?

No. Even if used, perform a full weekly test to confirm continued functionality. Usage doesn’t replace scheduled maintenance.

Q3: What if my facility is closed on weekends?

Test on the last working day before a multi-day closure. Never go more than 7 calendar days without activation.

Q4: Do wall-mounted and floor-mounted units have different rules?

No. All plumbed eyewash stations—regardless of mounting—require weekly activation and annual inspection under ANSI Z358.1.

Q5: How do I handle hard water or mineral buildup?

Install inline filters and consider a water softener if your area has high mineral content. Flush longer during weekly tests (up to 2 minutes) to clear deposits.

Q6: Are there exceptions for remote or low-risk sites?

Only if a qualified safety professional documents a risk assessment proving minimal hazard exposure. Even then, OSHA may still expect baseline compliance.

Conclusion

Knowing how often do plumbed eyewash stations need to be checked isn’t just about ticking a compliance box—it’s about protecting real people. A 60-second weekly flush could prevent blindness, save your company thousands in fines, and foster a culture where safety truly comes first.

Don’t wait for an accident to act. Start your weekly eyewash log today, train your team, and make emergency readiness a habit—not an afterthought.

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