Where To Place Eye Wash Stations

Proper placement of eye wash stations is critical for employee safety, especially when working with hazardous materials like forklift batteries. Learn where to strategically locate these stations to ensure quick access and compliance with safety standards, reducing the risk of injury during emergencies.

Forklift Battery Hazard

The biggest hazard working alongside forklift batteries is battery charging. Hydrogen gas is produced when batteries are charged, creating a risk for explosion.

ANSI Z358.1-2009 requires an eye wash station capable of a 15 minute flush within ten seconds walking time from the location of a battery charging station. This is approximately 55 feet.

Federal Law Requirements

ANSI and OSHA regulations also cover forklift batteries and acid exposure, but there are gaps and contradictions in these standards. For instance, if a battery washing station is near the charging area, an eye wash station is generally required; however, this may not apply if the watering station is located elsewhere in the building. Additionally, hydrogen gas may be present when a charged battery is transported to a watering station. If gas is expelled during filling and an ignition source is introduced, it could lead to a cell explosion.

Eye Wash Station Placement

Watering forklift batteries carries inherent risks, making an eye wash station essential to ensure employee safety. Although specific regulations may be interpreted differently and the General Duty Clause could apply after an incident or audit, the focus should be on the intent behind these safety standards. During a battery cell explosion, seconds matter as sulfuric acid exposure can cause rapid tissue damage. Immediate dilution with water is crucial to minimize harm, so placing an eye wash station at charging and watering areas, along with enforcing proper PPE use, is vital.

ProLift can help with your battery care needs. Shop our training materials for battery accessories – eye wash stations, safety glasses, gloves, watering cart and more!