How do you use an eyewash station?

• A. Place your face near the water fountains and press the handle.
• B. Turn on the water from a distance.
• C. Look away from the eyewash station while starting it.
• D. Use a towel to wipe your eyes.

Answer: (A)

Getting the eyes rinsed quickly and thoroughly is the priority. Bring your face close to the eyewash nozzles and press the activation handle to start the water flow, so a continuous stream washes across both eyes. Keep your eyes open and let the water flush across all eye surfaces, moving your eyes around as needed to rinse fully. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes, remove contact lenses if you can do so safely, and seek medical attention if you were exposed to a chemical or irritation persists. If you’re contaminated, remove any soiled clothing and rinse additional areas as needed.

Turning on the water from a distance won’t provide immediate or adequate rinsing. Looking away while starting the flow prevents water from reaching the eyes. Wiping with a towel does not flush out contaminants and can worsen irritation.