ANSI

Emergency Eye Wash and Shower Equipment – Revision to ANSI Z358.1 1998 Standard

Click  to view a complete list of revision associated with ANSI Z358.1 1998 Standard and to review the standard.

Go to Bradley Website to Specify: Bradley Emergency Fixtures

First Aid Standard 29CFR1910.151 states in part, “Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.” OSHA typically refers to the ANSI Z358.1-1998 Standard for Eye Wash and Shower Equipment when performing industry inspections to enforce this standard. The ANSI Standard is voluntary, but it is intended to provide uniform minimum requirements for emergency equipment as it applies to performance; installation; use; test procedures; and maintenance training. For more information click on OSHA

Although OSHA regulations are normally associated with industrial environments, products defined as “injurious materials” may range from acids and solvents used in manufacturing processes to many of the chemicals common in medical and laboratory facilities. Guidelines for Occupation Exposure to Blood borne Pathogens, issued by OSHA in 1992, further require that HIV and HBV research laboratories and production facilities maintain emergency eyewashes.

Sizing Mixing Valves  Go to Website to Specify: Powers Controls Bradley Navigator

There are several factors to consider before getting started. First, you must determine the manufacturer’s flow rate for each type of fixture. (The ANSI minimums are .4 GPM @30 PSI for eyewashes, 3 GPM @ 30 PSI for eye/face washes and 20 GPM @ 30 PSI for drench showers. However, manufacturers’ flow rates may vary.) Second, figure out the pressure available in your building, taking into consideration that long runs of pipes add to pressure drop. Contact the valve manufacturer for specific pressure drop information.

Now, total up your fixtures and multiply them by their actual flow rates.  For example:

You would need a valve that would provide a minimum of 23 GPM total output to accurately supply tepid water to all fixtures if they were used simultaneously.

Keep in mind the typical drench shower may flow anywhere from 45-65 GPM at 30 PSI depending on the manufacturer. These flow rates are 2-3 times more than ANSI minimum requirements, making water consumption costly to a facility owner. A flow restrictor or showerhead designed to maintain a 20 GPM flow rate is beneficial to an owner, as it provides water conservation and allows for a smaller thermostatic mixing valve to be used.

If water for emergency equipment is not tempered, the injured person will have a difficult time staying under the water for the full, ANSI-recommended 15-minute period.

More information is available so please call our offices 240-553-0112 or send an email to 411@ejdwyer.com for more information.