Choosing Water Source and Water Supply Requirements for Emergency Showers and Eyewash Stations

Emergency showers and eyewash stations are critical safety devices in workplaces where there is a risk of exposure to hazardous substances. In order for these units to function properly, it is important to select the appropriate water source and meet specific water supply requirements. This technical blog post will discuss the considerations for choosing a water source and the necessary water supply requirements for emergency showers and eyewash stations.

Water Supply Requirements for Emergency Showers

Choosing the Water Source:

1. Potable Water: The ideal water source for emergency showers and eyewash stations is potable water. Potable water refers to water that is safe for drinking and meets the quality standards set by regulatory bodies. It should be free from contaminants and harmful substances that could further aggravate injuries.
2. Dedicated Water Supply: It is highly recommended to have a dedicated water supply for emergency showers and eyewash stations. This means that the water source should be separate from other water systems in the facility to ensure a constant and uninterrupted flow of water during emergencies.

Water Supply Requirements:

1. Water Pressure: The water supply should have sufficient pressure to provide a steady and consistent flow of water. The minimum recommended water pressure is 2.07 kilograms per square centimeter (30 pounds per square inch) and the maximum is 6.21 kilograms per square centimeter (90 pounds per square inch). Proper water pressure ensures effective rinsing and flushing of hazardous substances from the body.
2. Water Temperature: The water supply should deliver tepid water, which is between 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit). Tepid water is essential to prevent thermal shock to the user, especially when rinsing eyes or other sensitive areas.
3. Flow Rate: The flow rate of water is crucial for effective operation of emergency showers and eyewash stations. The minimum flow rate for eyewash units is 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gallons per minute) for a minimum of 15 minutes. The minimum flow rate for showers is 75.7 liters per minute (20 gallons per minute) for a minimum of 15 minutes.
4. Water Distribution: The water supply system should be designed to distribute water evenly to all emergency showers and eyewash stations. This ensures that each unit receives an adequate supply of water during emergencies.
5. Backup Water Supply: It is recommended to have a backup water supply, such as an emergency water storage tank or generator-powered water pump. This backup system ensures a continuous water supply even during power outages or other emergencies.

Regular Maintenance:

Regular inspection and maintenance of the water supply system is crucial to ensure its reliability during emergencies. This includes checking for leaks, verifying water pressure, monitoring water quality, and conducting periodic testing of the emergency showers and eyewash stations.

In conclusion, choosing the right water source and meeting the water supply requirements are essential for the proper functioning of emergency showers and eyewash stations. By selecting a potable water source, ensuring sufficient water pressure and flow rate, and conducting regular maintenance, workplaces can provide a safe and effective solution for protecting employees from the risks associated with hazardous substances.