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Updated MIOSHA Instruction for Emergency Eyewash / Shower
MIOSHA’s instruction for Emergency Eyewash and Showers (MIOSHA-STD-07-1R3) was Updated on June 27, 2016. While there were not many changes, we wanted to review some of the important elements.
The only significant change is concerning the Section on Custodial / Housekeeping Activities which was revised to eliminate the requirement for personal eyewash units and personal protective equipment (PPE) in the traveling portion of the job. For example, traveling from the sink where cleaning solutions are prepared (e.g., janitors closet) to where the cleaning is being performed (e.g., bathrooms, production floor, etc.). |
Safety professionals also need to remember that the eyewash / emergency shower requirements, which are actually found in ANSI Z358.1–2009, are referenced in MIOSHA guidelines. Because of this, the requirements in ANSI Z358.1-2009 are looked at for compliance purposes when MIOSHA visits. We recommend that you get a copy of this standard because it contains many of the specific requirements applicable to eyewash and emergency showers that MIOSHA will be looking for.
Proper Eyewash Station - Another important topic covered in the instruction that did not change is what constitutes a “proper eyewash station” (plumbed or self-contained). The instruction says that personal wash units, those squirt bottles used to clean out eyes, are not considered adequate eyewash stations. Eyewash stations need to be hard-plumbed or in the case of self-contained (portable) units, “must be capable of delivering to the eyes not less than 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute) for 15 minutes”.
Eyewash Station Locations - MIOSHA’s policy on the location of an eyewash station relative to hazardous operations is also covered in the instruction. For example, the MIOSHA policy includes the following language:
You can get a copy of the MIOSHA Instruction here.
MIOSHA also has an eyewash / emergency shower Fact Sheet available on its web site.
Proper Eyewash Station - Another important topic covered in the instruction that did not change is what constitutes a “proper eyewash station” (plumbed or self-contained). The instruction says that personal wash units, those squirt bottles used to clean out eyes, are not considered adequate eyewash stations. Eyewash stations need to be hard-plumbed or in the case of self-contained (portable) units, “must be capable of delivering to the eyes not less than 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute) for 15 minutes”.
Eyewash Station Locations - MIOSHA’s policy on the location of an eyewash station relative to hazardous operations is also covered in the instruction. For example, the MIOSHA policy includes the following language:
- 100 feet or less from the hazardous operation – For chemicals that are injurious or corrosive (pH > 2 and ≤ 4 or pH ≥ 9 and < 11.5).
- 25 feet or less from the hazardous operation – For chemicals that are considered highly corrosive or capable of causing severe tissue damage.
- pH ≤ 2.0 or ≥ 11.5.
- Certain organic materials at concentrations known to cause severe tissue damage.
- Readily available in the work area for HIV and HBV research laboratories (i.e., 100 feet or less).
You can get a copy of the MIOSHA Instruction here.
MIOSHA also has an eyewash / emergency shower Fact Sheet available on its web site.
