Types of Emergency Eyewash Stations in Laboratories | SCHAKE

Emergency Eyewash Stations in Laboratories
Emergency Eyewash Stations used in laboratories can be classified into several types based on their installation and usage characteristics:

1.Plumbed Eyewash Station
-Directly connected to the water supply
-Provides continuous water flow that meets ANSI/EN standards
-Commonly installed in high-risk areas such as chemical laboratories and factories

Advantages
-Continuous water supply for extended flushing
-Stable water pressure and flow
-Easy to use, no refilling required
-Suitable for frequent use in laboratories

Limitations
-Requires permanent installation and space
-Higher cost compared to other types
-Regular plumbing maintenance needed

2. Portable Eyewash Station
-Equipped with a water tank (15–70 liters)
-Easy to relocate; suitable for areas without permanent plumbing
-Requires periodic refilling and cleaning

Advantages
-Mobile and easy to install
-Usable in areas without water connections
-Ideal for temporary worksites or field applications

Limitations
-Limited flushing time (tank capacity)
-Requires frequent inspection, refilling, and preservation solution
-Risk of contamination if not maintained properly

3. Emergency Eyewash Bottle (Squeeze Bottle / Personal Eyewash)
-Hand-held squeeze bottle type
-Used for immediate first aid eye flushing
-Recommended only as a supplementary option, not the primary station

Advantages
-Compact and portable
-Provides instant flushing at the incident site
-Lower cost than other types

Limitations
-Short flushing duration
-Insufficient water volume for full decontamination
-Not a replacement for standard eyewash stations

4. Combination Unit (Safety Shower + Eyewash)
-Combines both a Safety Shower and Eyewash in one unit
-Designed for areas where both eye and body exposure to chemicals may occur

Advantages
-Flushes chemicals from the entire body
-Includes eyewash for eye protection
-Suitable for high-risk industrial or chemical facilities

Limitations
-Requires large installation space
-Higher cost and permanent installation
-High water usage, requiring proper drainage system