This is from the 2014 Standard (ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014) which is being updated or already has. I wouldn't think this would change much.

In Section 3 Definitions:

tepid: A flushing fluid temperature conducive to promoting a minimum 15 minute irrigation period. A suitable range is 16 - 38 =BA C

(60 -100 =BA F). (See Appendix B6).

B6. Delivered Flushing Fluid Temperature

Continuous and timely irrigation of affected tissues for the recommended irrigation period are the principal factors in providing first aid. Providing flushing fluid at temperatures conducive to use for the recommended irrigation period is considered an integral part of providing suitable facilities. Medical recommendations suggest a flushing fluid at tepid temperatures be delivered to affected chemically- injured tissue. Temperatures in excess of 38 =B0C (100 =B0F) have proven to be harmful to the eyes and can enhance chemical interaction with the skin and eye tissue. Consideration should be given to the impact of isolated ambient temperature changes. Colder ambient temperature might require an enclosure for added protection. Warmer ambient temperature might require a re-evaluation of the water temperature.

While cold flushing fluid temperatures provide immediate cooling after chemical contact, prolonged exposure to cold fluids affect the ability to maintain adequate body temperature and can result in the premature cessation of first aid treatment. Recent information indicates that a temperature of 16 =B0C (60 =B0F) is suitable for the lower parameter for tepid flushing fluid without causing hypothermia to the equipment user.

Sammye

On 7/5/2018 5:14 PM, Tyrell Towle wrote:

Hello everyone,

This may seem like a basic question, but I am getting some pushback from our plumbing contractors on this.

We have a brand new facility and I went through to test all of the eyewash and emergency shower stations. At first everything seemed to be working fine, but then I noticed that the emergency eyewash water was getting warmer. I was horrified when the eyewash water became hot. I have never encountered hot eyewash water before. I had the contractors re-plumb the eyewash stations into cold tap water only. Now they are pushing back, wanting to hook the eyewash stations back into the hot water.

I also noticed that our emergency shower is releasing hot water.

Are there any regulations surrounding eyewash and emergency shower temperatures? My understanding has always been to have cold, potable tap water running into emergency showers and eyewashes so that chemical reactions are not accelerated upon exposure to heat. Regardless, with the temperatures that our eyewash stations were reaching, there was no way that anyone could keep their eyeballs open for 10 minutes in this water. Any information is appreciated, especially information that will put this debate to rest.

Thank you!

Tyrell R. Towle, Ph.D.
Senior Chemist
MedPharm Holdings, LLC
www.medpharmholdings..com

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Samuella B. Sigmann, MS, NRCC-CHO

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A. R. Smith Department of Chemistry

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