ANSI/ISEA Z358.

1-2014

American National Standard

for Emergency Eyewash and
Shower Equipment
 ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014
Revision of
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2009

American National Standard for

Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

Secretariat
International Safety Equipment Association

Approved January 8, 2015

American National Standards Institute, Inc.
 Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the
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Published by

International Safety Equipment Association

1901 North Moore Street, Suite 808, Arlington, Virginia 22209

Copyright by ISEA

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Foreword (This Foreword is not part of American National Standard ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014)

This revision updates ANSI Z358.1-2009 and was prepared by the Emergency Eyewash and Shower
Group of the International Safety Equipment Association, whose members are thoroughly knowledgeable
in the design, installation, and use of this important safety equipment. The following companies were
members of the group at the time of the approval of the standard: Bradley Corporation, Encon Safety
Products, FSI International, Guardian Equipment, Honeywell Safety Products, Hughes Safety Showers,
Prevor, Inc., Sellstrom Manufacturing, Speakman Company, and VisionAid.

Updates to the 2009 version of the standard are reflected in this document, including improvement in
language to emphasize that the location of the fluid flow and pattern delivery for emergency eyewashes
and eye/face washes is the critical aspect in designing and installing these devices, rather than the
positioning of the nozzles themselves. Additionally, illustrations have been updated to reflect
contemporary design configurations that are known to meet the criteria in standard.

Suggestions for the improvement of this standard are welcome. They should be sent to the ISEA, 1901 N.
Moore Street, Suite 808, Arlington, VA 22209 or [email protected].

This standard was processed and approved using consensus procedures prescribed by the American
National Standards Institute. The following organizations were contacted prior to the approval of this
standard. Inclusion in this list does not necessarily imply that the organization concurred with the
submittal of the proposed standard to ANSI.

Acorn Safety Lawler Manufacturing

APPA, Leadership in Educational Facilities Natural Resources Canada
Alabama Power Company North Carolina Department of Labor
Arts, Crafts & Theater Safety Inc. Safety Equipment Institute
Atlantic Health Special Graphic Imaging Association
Atlas Industrial Contractors, LLC State of Ohio Public Employment Risk Reduction
BASF Corporation Program
Baylor Scott & White Health Syracuse Utilities
CalOSHA UL LLC
Cardinal Health University of Georgia
County of Sacramento University of Michigan
Erdman US Department of the Army
Green Conversion Systems US Department of the Navy
Haws Corporation Williams Energy
International Safety Equipment Association
Intertek
Contents
SECTION PAGE

1. Scope .................................................................................................................................. 1
2 Purpose ............................................................................................................................... 1
3. Definitions ........................................................................................................................... 1
4. Emergency Showers ........................................................................................................... 2
4.1 Performance of Emergency Showers ....................................................................... 2
4.2 Performance of Control Valve ................................................................................... 2
4.3 Emergency Shower Enclosures ................................................................................ 2
4.4 Testing Procedures for Certification .......................................................................... 2
4.5 Installation ................................................................................................................. 3
4.6 Maintenance and Training ......................................................................................... 4
5. Eyewash Equipment ........................................................................................................... 4
5.1 Performance of Eyewashes ...................................................................................... 4
5.2 Performance of Control Valve ................................................................................... 4
5.3 Testing Procedures for Certification .......................................................................... 5
5.4 Installation ................................................................................................................. 5
5.5 Maintenance and Training ......................................................................................... 6
6. Eye/Face Wash Equipment ................................................................................................ 6
6.1 Performance of Eye/Face Washes ........................................................................... 6
6.2 Performance of Control Valve ................................................................................... 7
6.3 Testing Procedures for Certification .......................................................................... 7
6.4 Installation ................................................................................................................. 7
6.5 Maintenance and Training ......................................................................................... 8
7. Combination Units ............................................................................................................... 8
7.1 Performance of Combination Units ........................................................................... 8
7.2 Performance of Control Valve ................................................................................... 8
7.3 Testing Procedures for Certification .......................................................................... 8
7.4 Installation ................................................................................................................. 8
7.5 Maintenance and Training ......................................................................................... 9
8. Supplemental Equipment .................................................................................................... 9
8.1 Personal Wash Units ................................................................................................ 9
8.2 Drench Hoses ......................................................................................................... 10
SECTION PAGE

ILLUSTRATIONS
Illustration 1 Emergency Shower – Overhead Type .................................................... 11
Illustration 2 Emergency Shower – Multi-Nozzle ......................................................... 12
Illustration 3 Emergency Shower – Multi-Nozzle with Overhead Fixture ..................... 13
Illustration 4 Plumbed Eyewash .................................................................................. 14
Illustration 5 Nonpressurized Self-Contained Eyewash............................................... 15
Illustration 6 Pressurized Self-Contained Eyewash ..................................................... 15
Illustration 7 Typical Eyewash Gauge ......................................................................... 16
Illustration 8 Eye/Face Wash ...................................................................................... 16
Illustration 9 Combination Unit .................................................................................... 17
Illustration 10 Personal Wash Units .............................................................................. 18
Illustration 11 Drench Hose ........................................................................................... 18
Illustration 12 Drench Hose with Eyewash Attachment ................................................. 18

APPENDICES
Appendix A – Safety Considerations .......................................................................................... 19
Appendix B – Installation Considerations ................................................................................... 20

REFERENCES.................................................................................. ......................................... 22
 ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

American National Standard

for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

1. Scope combination unit: An interconnected assembly

of emergency equipment supplied by a single
source of flushing fluid.
This standard establishes minimum performance
and use requirements for eyewash and shower
drench hose: A supplemental device consisting
equipment for the emergency treatment of the
of a flexible hose connected to a flushing fluid
eyes or body of a person who has been exposed
supply and used to provide fluid to irrigate and
to hazardous materials. It covers the following
flush face and body areas.
types of equipment: emergency showers,
eyewashes, eye/face washes, and combination
emergency shower: A device specifically
units.
designed and intended to deliver flushing fluid in
sufficient volume to cause that fluid to cascade
This standard also includes performance and
over the entire body.
use requirements for personal wash units and
drench hoses, which are considered
supplemental to emergency eyewash and eye/face wash: A device used to provide fluid
shower equipment. to irrigate and flush both the face and the eyes
simultaneously.
2. Purpose
eyewash: A device used to provide fluid to
irrigate and flush the eyes.
This standard is intended to provide uniform
minimum requirements for the performance,
flow pressure: The pressure in the water
use, installation, test procedures, maintenance
supply pipe near the water outlet while the faucet
and training of emergency eyewash and shower
or outlet is fully open and flowing.
equipment.
flushing fluid: Potable water, preserved water,
3. Definitions preserved buffered saline solution or other
medically acceptable solution manufactured and
For the purpose of this standard, the following labeled in accordance with applicable
terms apply as defined: government regulations.
certified: A system whereby a certification flushing fluid column: The dispersion pattern
organization determines that a manufacturer has of flushing fluid which is created by an
demonstrated the ability to produce a product emergency shower and meets the standard’s
that complies with the requirements of this prescribed coverage requirements. This pattern
standard, authorizes the manufacturer to use a can be achieved by a variety of design
label on listed products that comply with the configurations.
requirements of this standard, and establishes a
follow-up program conducted by the certification freeze protected equipment: Equipment
organization as a check on the methods the designed to allow the emergency device to
manufacturer uses to determine continued operate under freezing conditions.
compliance of labeled and listed products with
the requirements of this standard. freeze protection: A means to protect flushing
fluid in an apparatus from freezing and rendering
certification organization: An independent it inoperable. This can be achieved through
third party organization that determines product several means including mechanical valves and
compliance with the requirements of this electrical heat tracing.
standard with a labeling/listing/follow-up
program. hazardous material: Any substance or
compound that has the capability of producing

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ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

adverse effects on the health and safety of least 40.6 cm (16 in.) from any obstruction. The
humans. flushing fluid shall be substantially dispersed
throughout the pattern.
personal wash: A supplementary device that
supports plumbed and/or self-contained units, by 4.1.5 Emergency showers shall be designed,
delivering immediate flushing fluid to the eyes or manufactured and installed in such a manner
body. that, once activated, they can be used without
requiring the use of the operator’s hands.
plumbed: A term used to describe equipment
that is connected to a continual source of 4.1.6 Emergency showers shall be
potable water. constructed of materials that will not corrode in
the presence of the flushing fluid. Stored
potable water: Water that is suitable for flushing fluid shall be protected against airborne
drinking. contaminants.

self-closing valve: A valve that closes 4.2 Performance of Control Valve

automatically when released by the user.
The valve shall remain open without the use of
self-contained: A term used to describe a the operator’s hands until intentionally closed.
stand-alone device containing flushing fluid. The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less.. The valve
tepid: A flushing fluid temperature conducive to shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or
promoting a minimum 15 minute irrigation automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and
period. A suitable range is 16 - 38º C readily accessible to the user. Valve actuators
(60 -100º F). (See Appendix B6). shall be located not more than 173.3 cm (69 in.)
above the level on which the user stands.
valve actuator: A device connected to the
valve to facilitate its operation. 4.3 Emergency Shower Enclosures

If used, enclosures shall provide for a minimum

4. Emergency Showers (See unobstructed area of 86.4 cm (34 in.) in
diameter.
Illustrations 1, 2, 3)
4.4 Testing Procedures for Certification
4.1 Performance of Emergency Showers
4.4.1 Plumbed Emergency Showers
4.1.1 A means shall be provided to ensure
that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided
Plumbed emergency showers shall be certified
at a velocity low enough to be non-injurious to
as follows:
the user.
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the unit to be
4.1.2 Emergency showers shall be capable of
tested or provide other means of measuring
delivering flushing fluid at a minimum of
flushing fluid flow.
75.7 liters per minute (20 gpm) for a minimum of
15 minutes. If shut off valves are installed in the
(2) Connect the unit per the manufacturer’s
supply line for maintenance purposes, provisions
specifications to a flushing fluid supply at a
shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
flow pressure of 207 kPa +3.4 kPa -0 kPa
(30 psi +0.5 psi -0 psi).
4.1.3 Emergency showers shall provide a
flushing fluid column that is at least 208.3 cm (82
(3) Open the valve on the unit and verify that
in.) and not more than 243.8 cm (96 in.) in height
it fully opens in one second or less and that
from the surface on which the user stands.
it stays open.
4.1.4 The spray pattern shall have a minimum
(4) Determine that flushing fluid is
diameter of 50.8 cm (20 in.) at 152.4 cm (60 in.)
substantially dispersed throughout the
above the surface on which the user stands, and
pattern. The flushing fluid column pattern
the center of the spray pattern shall be located at

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 ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

shall be at least 208 cm (82 in.) and no more 4.5.3 Be located in an area identified with a
than 243.8 cm (96 in.) from the surface on highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
which the user stands. Measure the visible within the area served by the emergency
diameter of the flushing fluid pattern 152.4 shower. The area around the emergency
cm (60 in.) above the surface on which the shower shall be well-lit.
user stands. The diameter shall be a
minimum of 50.8 cm (20 in.). Throughout 4.5.4 Be positioned so that the shower pattern
the 15-minute test, verify that the flow rate is is dispersed such that the top of the flushing fluid
a minimum of 75.7 liters per minute (20 column is at least 208.3 cm (82 in.) and not
gpm). more than 243.8 cm (96 in.) from the surface on
which the user stands. The center of the spray
4.4.2 Self-contained Emergency Showers shall be at least 40.6 cm (16 in.) from any
obstruction.
Self-contained emergency showers shall be
certified as follows: 4.5.5 Be connected to a supply of flushing
fluid per the manufacturer’s installation
(1) Fill the unit with flushing solution. instructions to produce the required spray
pattern for a minimum period of 15 minutes.
(2) Connect a flowmeter to the unit to be Where the possibility of freezing conditions
tested or provide other means of measuring exists, the emergency shower shall be protected
flushing fluid flow. from freezing or freeze-protected equipment
shall be installed. If shut off valves are installed
(3) Open the valve on the unit and verify that in the shower line for maintenance purposes,
it fully opens in one second or less and that provisions shall be made to prevent
it stays open. unauthorized shut off.

(4) Determine that flushing fluid is 4.5.6 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
substantially dispersed throughout the circumstances where chemical reaction is
pattern. The flushing fluid column pattern accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
shall be at least 208 cm (82 in.) and not facilities safety/health advisor should be
more than 243.8 cm (96 in.) from the surface consulted for the optimum temperature for each
on which the user stands. Measure the application.
diameter of the flushing fluid pattern
152.4 cm (60 in.) above the surface on 4.5.7 When the plumbed emergency shower
which the user stands. The diameter shall is installed, its performance shall be verified in
be a minimum of 50.8 cm (20 in.). accordance with the following procedures:
Throughout the 15-minute test, verify that
the flow rate is a minimum of 75.7 liters per (1) With the unit correctly connected to the
minute (20 gpm). flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed,
visually check the piping connections for
leaks.
4.5 Installation
(2) Open the valve to the full open position.
It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure that The valve shall remain open without
emergency showers shall: requiring further use of the operator's hands.
4.5.1 Be assembled and installed in (3) With the valve in the fully opened
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, position, measure the diameter of the spray
including flushing fluid delivery requirements. pattern. It shall be a minimum of 50.8 cm
(20 in.) at 152.4 cm (60 in.) above the
4.5.2 Be in accessible locations that require standing surface. The flushing fluid shall be
no more than 10 seconds to reach. The substantially dispersed throughout the
emergency shower shall be located on the same pattern.
level as the hazard and the path of travel shall
be free of obstructions that may inhibit its
immediate use. (See Appendix B5)

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ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, 5.1.3 Nozzles and flushing fluid units shall be
determine that the rate of flow is at least protected from airborne contaminants.
75.7 liters per minute (20 gpm). Whatever means is used to afford such
protection, its removal shall not require a
(5) Using a temperature gauge or other separate motion by the operator when activating
means, determine that the flushing fluid is the unit.
tepid.
5.1.4 Eyewashes shall be designed,
4.5.8 When the self-contained emergency manufactured and installed in such a manner
shower is installed, its installation shall be that, once activated, they can be used without
verified in accordance with manufacturer’s requiring the use of the operator’s hands.
instructions.
5.1.5 Eyewashes shall be constructed of
4.6 Maintenance and Training materials that will not corrode in the presence of
the flushing fluid.
4.6.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
inspection and maintenance instructions with 5.1.6 Eyewashes shall be capable of
emergency shower equipment. Instructions shall delivering flushing fluid to the eyes not less than
be readily accessible to maintenance and 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gpm) for 15 minutes. If
training personnel. shut off valves are installed in the supply line for
maintenance purposes, provisions shall be made
4.6.2 Plumbed emergency showers shall be to prevent unauthorized shut off.
activated weekly for a period long enough to
verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is 5.1.7 Eyewashes shall be designed to provide
available. (See Appendix B7) enough room to allow the eyelids to be held
open with the hands while the eyes are in the
4.6.3 Self-contained emergency showers shall flushing fluid stream.
be visually checked weekly to determine if
flushing fluid needs to be changed or 5.1.8 Eyewashes shall provide flushing fluid to
supplemented. Such inspection shall be both eyes simultaneously. A test gauge for
conducted in accordance with manufacturer’s making determination of a suitable eyewash
instructions. pattern shall be a minimum 10.16 cm (4 in.) in
length with two sets of parallel lines equidistant
4.6.4 Employees who may be exposed to from the center (See Illustration 7). The interior
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the set of lines shall be 3.18 cm (1.25 in.) apart and
location and proper use of emergency showers. the exterior lines shall be 8.26 cm (3.25 in.)
apart. Place the gauge in the stream of the
4.6.5 All emergency showers shall be eyewash. The flushing fluid shall cover the
inspected annually to assure conformance with areas between the interior and exterior lines of
Section 4.5 requirements of this standard. the gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm
(8 in.) above the eyewash nozzle(s).
5. Eyewash Equipment (See
Illustrations 4, 5, 6) 5.2 Performance of Control Valve

5.1 Performance of Eyewashes The valve shall remain open without the use of
the operator’s hands until intentionally closed.
The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go
5.1.1 A means shall be provided to ensure
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less.. The valve
that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided
shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or
to both eyes simultaneously at a velocity low
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and
enough to be non-injurious to the user.
readily accessible to the user.
5.1.2 The eyewash shall be designed and
positioned in such a way as to pose no hazard to
the user.

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 ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

5.3 Testing Procedures for Certification 5.4 Installation

5.3.1 Plumbed Eyewashes It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure that

eyewashes shall:
Plumbed eyewashes shall be certified as follows:
5.4.1 Be assembled and installed in
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the unit to be accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
tested, or provide other means of measuring including flushing fluid delivery requirements.
flushing fluid flow.
5.4.2 Be in accessible locations that require
(2) Connect the unit to a flushing fluid no more than 10 seconds to reach. The
supply per the manufacturer’s instructions at eyewash shall be located on the same level as
a flow pressure of 207 kPa +3.4 kPa -0 kPa the hazard and the path of travel shall be free of
(30 psi +0.5 psi -0 psi). obstructions that may inhibit its immediate use.
(See Appendix B5)
(3) Open the valve on the eyewash and
verify that it fully opens in one second or less 5.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
and that it stays open. highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
visible within the area served by the eyewash.
(4) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure The area around the eyewash shall be well-lit.
that the unit is capable of delivering a
minimum of 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gpm) 5.4.4 Be arranged such that the flushing fluid
and that the flushing fluid covers the areas flow pattern as described in Section 5.1.8 is not
between the interior and exterior lines of the less than 83.8 cm (33 in.) and no greater than
gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm 134.6 cm (53 in.) from the surface on which the
(8 in.) above the eyewash nozzle(s) user stands and 15.3 cm (6 in.) minimum from
(Illustration 7). the wall or the nearest obstruction.

5.3.2 Self-contained Eyewashes 5.4.5 Be connected to a supply of flushing

fluid per the manufacturer’s installation
Self-contained eyewashes shall be certified as instructions to produce the required spray
follows: pattern for a minimum period of 15 minutes.
Where the possibility of freezing conditions
(1) Set up the unit per the manufacturer’s exists, the eyewash shall be protected from
instructions. freezing or freeze-protected equipment shall be
installed. If shut off valves are installed in the
(2) Fill the unit with flushing fluid or with the supply line for maintenance purposes, provisions
pre-packaged fluid provided by the shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
manufacturer.
5.4.6 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
(3) Activate the unit and verify that it can be circumstances where chemical reaction is
activated in one second or less and that it accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
stays activated. facilities safety/health advisor should be
consulted for the optimum temperature for each
(4) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure application.
that the eyewash is capable of delivering a
minimum of 1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gpm) 5.4.7 When the plumbed eyewash is installed,
and that the flushing fluid covers the areas its performance shall be verified in accordance
between the interior and exterior lines of the with the following procedures:
gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm
(8 in.) above the eyewash nozzle(s) (1) With the unit correctly connected to the
(Illustration 7). flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed,
visually check the piping connections for
leaks.

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ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

(2) Open the valve to the full open position. 6. Eye/Face Wash Equipment (See
The valve shall remain open without Illustration 8)
requiring further use of the operator's hands.
6.1 Performance of Eye/Face Washes
(3) With the valve in the fully open position,
make sure that both eyes will be washed 6.1.1 A means shall be provided to ensure
simultaneously at a velocity low enough to that a controlled flow of flushing fluid is provided
be non-injurious to the user. to both eyes and face simultaneously at a
velocity low enough to be non-injurious to the
(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, user.
determine that the rate of flow is at least
1.5 liters per minute (0.4 gpm). A test gauge 6.1.2 Eye/face washes shall be designed and
similar to the one pictured in Illustration 7 positioned in such a way as to pose no hazard to
can be used to verify minimum flow the user.
characteristics.
6.1.3 Nozzles and flushing fluid units shall be
(5) Using a temperature gauge or other protected from airborne contaminants.
means, determine that the flushing fluid is Whatever means is used to afford such
tepid. protection, its removal shall not require a
separate motion by the operator when activating
5.4.8 When the self-contained eyewash is the unit.
installed, its installation shall be verified in
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 6.1.4 Eye/face washes shall be designed,
manufactured and installed in such a manner
5.5 Maintenance and Training that, once activated, they can be used without
requiring the use of the operator’s hands.
5.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
inspection and maintenance instructions with 6.1.5 Eye/face washes shall be constructed of
eyewashes. Instructions shall be readily materials that will not corrode in the presence of
accessible to maintenance and inspection the flushing fluid.
personnel.
6.1.6 Eye/face washes shall be capable of
5.5.2 Plumbed eyewashes shall be activated delivering flushing fluid to the eyes and face not
weekly for a period long enough to verify less than 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm) for
operation and ensure that flushing fluid is 15 minutes. If shut off valves are installed in the
available. (See Appendix B7) line for maintenance purposes, provisions shall
be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
5.5.3 Self-contained eyewashes shall be
visually checked weekly to determine if flushing 6.1.7 Eye/face washes shall be designed to
fluid needs to be changed or supplemented. provide enough room to allow the eyelids to be
Such inspection shall be conducted in held open with the hands while the eyes and
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. face are in the flushing fluid stream.
5.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to 6.1.8 Eye/face washes shall provide flushing
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the fluid to both eyes simultaneously. A test gauge
location and proper use of emergency for making determination of a suitable eyewash
eyewashes. pattern shall be a minimum 10.16 cm (4 in.) in
length with two sets of parallel lines equidistant
5.5.5 All eyewashes shall be inspected from the center (See Illustration 7). The interior
annually to assure conformance with Section 5.4 set of lines shall be 3.18 cm (1.25 in.) apart and
requirements of this standard. the exterior lines shall be 8.26 cm (3.25 in.)
apart. Place the gauge in the stream of the
eyewash. The flushing fluid shall cover the
areas between the interior and exterior lines of
the gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm
(8 in.) above the eye/face wash nozzle(s).

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 ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

6.2 Performance of Control Valve minimum of 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm)
and that the flushing fluid covers the areas
The valve shall remain open without the use of between the interior and exterior lines of the
the operator’s hands until intentionally closed. gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm
The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go (8 in.) above the eye/face wash nozzle(s)
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less.. The valve (Illustration 7).
shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and 6.4 Installation
readily accessible to the user.
It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure that
6.3 Testing Procedures for Certification eye/face washes shall:

6.3.1 Plumbed Eye/Face Washes 6.4.1 Be assembled and installed in

accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
Plumbed eye/face washes shall be certified as including flushing fluid delivery requirements.
follows:
6.4.2 Be in accessible locations that require
(1) Connect a flowmeter to the unit to be no more than 10 seconds to reach. The eye/face
tested, or provide other means of measuring wash shall be located on the same level as the
flushing fluid flow. hazard and the path of travel shall be free of
obstructions that may inhibit the immediate use
(2) Connect the unit to a flushing fluid of the equipment. (See Appendix B5)
supply per the manufacturer’s instructions at
a flow pressure of 207 kPa +3.4 kPa -0 kPa 6.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
(30 psi +0.5 psi -0 psi). highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
visible within the area served by the eye/face
(3) Open the valve on the unit and verify that wash. The area around the eye/face wash shall
it opens in one second and stays open. be well-lit.

(4) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure 6.4.4 Be arranged such that the flushing fluid
that the unit is capable of delivering a flow pattern as described in Section 6.1.8 is not
minimum of 11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm) less than 83.8 cm (33 in.) and no greater than
and that the flushing fluid covers the areas 134.6 cm (53 in.) from the level on which the
between the interior and exterior lines of the user stands and 15.3 cm (6 in.) minimum from
gauge at some point less than 20.3 cm the wall or nearest obstruction.
(8 in.) above the eye/face wash nozzle(s)
(Illustration 7). 6.4.5 Be connected to a supply of flushing
fluid per the manufacturer’s installation
6.3.2 Self-contained Eye/Face Washes instructions to produce the required spray
pattern for a minimum period of 15 minutes.
Self-contained eye/face washes shall be certified Where the possibility of freezing conditions
as follows: exists, the eye/face wash shall be protected from
freezing or freeze-protected equipment shall be
(1) Set up the unit per the manufacturer’s installed. If shut off valves are installed in the
instructions. supply line for maintenance purposes, provisions
shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
(2) Fill the unit with flushing fluid or with the
pre-packaged fluid provided by the 6.4.6 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
manufacturer. circumstances where chemical reaction is
accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
(3) Activate the unit and verify that it can be facilities safety/health advisor should be
activated in one second or less and that it consulted for the optimum temperature for each
stays activated. application. (See Appendix B6)

(4) Throughout the 15 minute test, ensure

that the unit is capable of delivering a

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6.4.7 When the plumbed eye/face wash is 6.5.5 All eye/face washes shall be inspected
installed, its performance shall be verified in annually to assure conformance with Section 6.4
accordance with the following procedures: requirements of this standard.

(1) With the unit correctly connected to the

flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed, 7. Combination Units (See
visually check the piping connections for Illustration 9)
leaks.
7.1 Performance of Combination Units
(2) Open the valve to the full open position.
The valve shall remain open without Components of combination units shall operate
requiring further use of the operator's hands. individually and simultaneously in accordance
with the following sections:
(3) With the valve in the fully opened position
make sure that both eyes and face will be 7.1.1 Emergency showers shall meet the
washed simultaneously at a velocity low performance requirements of Section 4.
enough to be non-injurious to the user.
7.1.2 Eyewashes shall meet the performance
(4) Using the flowmeter or other means, requirements of Section 5.
determine that the rate of flow is at least
11.4 liters per minute (3.0 gpm). A test 7.1.3 Eye/face washes shall meet the
gauge similar to the one pictured in performance requirements of Section 6.
Illustration 7 can be used to verify minimum
flow characteristics. 7.1.4 Drench hoses shall meet the
performance requirements of Section 8.2 at the
(5) Using a temperature gauge or other pressure and flow specified by the manufacturer.
means, determine that the flushing fluid is
tepid. NOTE: The eyewash or eye/face wash section of a
combination unit is not considered an "obstruction" in
6.4.8 When the self-contained eye/face wash this context to allow for simultaneous use of
is installed, its installation shall be verified in emergency shower and eyewash equipment.
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
7.2 Performance of Control Valve
6.5 Maintenance and Training
Each valve shall meet the applicable
6.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation, requirements of Sections 4, 5, 6, and 8.2.2,
inspection and maintenance instructions with depending on which of the components listed in
eye/face washes. Instructions shall be readily Section 7.1 are included.
accessible to maintenance and inspection
personnel. 7.3 Testing Procedures for Certification

6.5.2 Plumbed eye/face washes shall be Each part of the combination unit shall be
activated weekly for a period long enough to certified individually and when activated
verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is simultaneously be in accordance with the
available. (See Appendix B7) procedures outlined in Sections 4, 5, 6 and 8.2,
depending on which of the components listed in
6.5.3 Self-contained eye/face washes shall be Section 7.1 are included.
visually checked weekly to determine if flushing
fluid needs to be changed or supplemented. 7.4 Installation
Such inspection shall be conducted in
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure that
combination units shall:
6.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to
hazardous materials shall be instructed in the 7.4.1 Be assembled and installed in
location and proper use of eye/face washes. accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
including flushing fluid delivery requirements.

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7.4.2 Be in accessible locations that require (4) Using a temperature gauge or other
no more than 10 seconds to reach. The means, determine that the flushing fluid is
combination unit shall be located on the same tepid.
level as the hazard and the path of travel shall
be free of obstructions that may inhibit its NOTE: Where hand-held drench hoses are part of
immediate use. (See Appendix B5) the combination unit, the flow and pressure shall be
specified by the manufacturer.
7.4.3 Be located in an area identified with a
highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be 7.5 Maintenance and Training
visible within the area served by the combination
unit. The area around the combination unit shall 7.5.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
be well-lit. inspection and maintenance instructions with
combination units. Instructions shall be readily
7.4.4 Be connected to a system capable of accessible to maintenance and inspection
supplying adequate flushing fluid to meet the personnel.
requirements of each component as outlined in
Sections 4, 5, and 6 when all components are 7.5.2 Plumbed combination units shall be
operated simultaneously. Combination unit activated weekly for a period long enough to
components shall be positioned so that verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is
components may be used simultaneously by the available. (See Appendix B7)
same user. Where the possibility of freezing
conditions exists, combination units shall be 7.5.3 Self-contained combination units shall
protected from freezing or freeze-protected be visually checked weekly to determine if
equipment shall be installed. flushing fluid needs to be changed or
supplemented. Such inspection shall be
7.4.5 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In conducted in accordance with manufacturer’s
circumstances where chemical reaction is instructions.
accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
facilities safety/health advisor should be 7.5.4 Employees who may be exposed to
consulted for the optimum temperature for each hazardous materials shall be instructed in the
application. (See Appendix B6) location and proper use of combination units.

7.4.6 When the combination unit is installed, 7.5.5 All combination units shall be inspected
its performance shall be verified in accordance annually to assure conformance with Section 7.4
with the following procedures: requirements of this standard.

(1) With the unit correctly connected to the

flushing fluid source and the valve(s) closed, 8. Supplemental Equipment
visually check the piping connections for
leaks. The supplemental equipment listed below shall
provide immediate flushing to support plumbed
(2) Open the emergency shower and and self-contained emergency eyewash and
eyewash or eye/face wash valves to the full shower equipment but shall not replace them.
open position. The valves shall remain open
without requiring further use of the operator's 8.1. Personal Wash Units (See Illustration
hands. 10)
(3) Activate the valves and check the 8.1.1 Performance of Personal Wash Units
performance of the emergency shower,
eyewash and eye/face wash valves as 8.1.1.1 Personal wash units shall have the
described in Sections 4.5.7, 5.4.7 and 6.4.7 capacity to deliver immediate flushing fluid
respectively, while operating simultaneously. without being injurious to the user. Personal
wash units do not meet the criteria of plumbed or
self-contained eyewash equipment.

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8.1.1.2 In circumstances where chemical 8.2.3 Installation

reaction is accelerated by flushing fluid
temperature, a facilities safety/health advisor It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure that
should be consulted for the optimum drench hoses shall:
temperature for each application.
(See Appendix B6) 8.2.3.1 Be assembled and installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8.1.2 Installation
8.2.3.2 Be located in an area identified with a
Personal wash units shall be protected from highly visible sign positioned so the sign shall be
freezing and shall not be exposed to ambient visible within the area served by the drench
temperatures exceeding 38 º C (100 º F). hose. The area around the drench hose shall be
well-lit, and free of debris that may inhibit its
8.1.3 Maintenance, Training and Storage immediate use.

8.1.3.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation, 8.2.3.3 Be connected to a supply of flushing

inspection and maintenance instructions with fluid. Where the possibility of freezing conditions
personal wash units. Instructions shall be readily exists, drench hoses shall be protected from
accessible to maintenance and inspection freezing or freeze-protected equipment shall be
personnel. installed. If shut off valves are installed in the
supply line for maintenance purposes, provisions
8.1.3.2 All personal wash units shall be shall be made to prevent unauthorized shut off.
inspected and maintained in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions and shall meet 8.2.3.4 Deliver tepid flushing fluid. In
applicable regulatory requirements. circumstances where chemical reaction is
accelerated by flushing fluid temperature, a
8.1.3.3 Employees shall be instructed in the facilities safety/health advisor should be
location, proper use and application of personal consulted for the optimum temperature for each
wash units. application.

8.1.2.4 All personal wash units shall be 8.2.4 Maintenance and Training
inspected annually to assure conformance with
Section 8.1 requirements of this standard. 8.2.4.1 Manufacturers shall provide operation,
inspection and maintenance instructions with
8.2 Drench Hoses (See Illustrations 11, drench hoses. Instructions shall be readily
12) accessible to maintenance and inspection
personnel.
8.2.1 Performance of Drench Hoses
8.2.4.2 Plumbed drench hoses shall be
Drench hoses shall be designed to provide a activated weekly for a period long enough to
controlled flow of flushing fluid to a portion of the verify operation and ensure that flushing fluid is
body at a velocity low enough to be non-injurious available.
to the user.
8.2.4.3 Self-contained drench hoses shall be
NOTE: A drench hose may be considered an visually checked weekly to determine if flushing
eyewash or eye/face wash if the device meets the fluid needs to be changed or supplemented.
performance requirements of Section 5 and/or Such inspection shall be conducted in
Section 6. accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

8.2.2 Performance of Control Valve 8.2.4.4 Employees who may be exposed to

hazardous materials shall be instructed in the
The valve shall be simple to operate and shall go location and proper use of drench hoses.
from "off" to "on" in 1 second or less.. The valve
shall be resistant to corrosion. Manual or 8.2.4.5 All drench hoses shall be inspected
automatic actuators shall be easy to locate and annually to assure conformance with
be readily accessible to the user. Section 8.2.3 requirements of this standard.

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Illustrations
The illustrations included in ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 are included as examples of configurations capable
of meeting the criteria set forth in this standard. Other configurations may be acceptable if they meet the
performance criteria established in this standard.

Illustration 1
Emergency Shower – Overhead Type

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Illustration 2
Emergency Shower – Multi-Nozzle

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Illustration 3
Emergency Shower – Multi-Nozzle with Overhead Fixture

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Illustration 4
Plumbed Eyewash

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Illustration 5
Non-Pressurized Self-Contained Eyewash

Illustration 6
Pressurized Self-Contained Eyewash

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Illustration 7
Typical Eyewash Gauge

Illustration 8
Eye/Face Wash

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Illustration 9
Combination Unit

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ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014

Illustration 10
Personal Wash Units

Illustration 11 Illustration 12
Drench Hose Drench Hose with Eyewash Attachment

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Appendices (The appendices are not part of ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014, but are included for
information only.)

APPENDIX A – SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

A1. Personal Wash Unit

The first seconds following an eye injury are often critical to keeping eye injury to a minimum. A personal
wash unit may be kept in the immediate vicinity of employees working in a potentially hazardous area.
The main purpose of these units is to supply immediate flushing. With this accomplished, the injured
individual should then proceed to a plumbed or self-contained eyewash and flush the eyes for the required
15-minute period.

A2. First Aid Practices

A physician or other appropriate professional should provide guidance on specific workplace hazards and
should provide instruction on the use of emergency eyewash and shower equipment.

A3. Waste Disposal

Consideration should be given to the proper disposal of waste flushing fluids from operating emergency
eyewash and shower equipment. Freezing temperatures, drainage, elevated showers and pollutants are
some, but not all, of the considerations. Consult authorities for assistance with applicable local, state and
federal regulations.

A4. Personal Protective Equipment

Emergency eyewash and shower equipment is not a substitute for proper primary protective devices.
As a defense against flying solid particles and splashing injurious liquids, workers should wear personal
protective equipment as needed.

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APPENDIX B – INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

B1. Supply Lines

Installation procedures should be in accordance with proper plumbing practices and supply piping
adequately sized to meet flow requirements.

B2. Water Capacity

The ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-201x standard includes reference to a flow pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi) only in
the certification-related sections for plumbed equipment. This is to ensure that the testing for certification
purposes is consistent and that reproducible results can be generated regardless of the laboratory
conducting the testing. It is the responsibility of the designer and owner to ensure proper flushing fluid
delivery at possible low points of pressure in the plumbing system and to ensure that the plumbed
equipment is installed in accordance with the flushing fluid delivery requirements specified by the
equipment manufacturer. The weekly activation of plumbed emergency eyewash and shower equipment
is to be conducted at normal facility operating pressures. Excess flow pressure can deliver water to the
equipment at velocities that could injure the user or render the equipment inoperable. Caution should be
exercised with flow pressures over 0.552 kPa (80 psi).

B3. Valve Operation

In the interest of safety, a control valve remaining open is most desirable to allow the user the use of both
hands for disrobing or holding the eyes open. However, a self-closing valve may be permitted in a school
laboratory situation as a limited exception only where the enforcing authority is of the opinion that the
hazard posed is not a serious threat.

B4. Alarm Devices

In addition to the equipment identification required by ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014, users may also want to
use audible alarms or warning lights to indicate that the unit is in operation. These are particularly
important in remote areas. Many companies connect valves electrically to warning lights or buzzers in
central dispatch areas to alert the appropriate authorities when the unit is in use.

B5. Placement of Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

Emergency eyewash and shower equipment should be available for immediate use, but in no instance
should it take an individual longer than 10 seconds to reach the nearest facility.

There are several factors that might influence the location of emergency facilities. It is recognized that the
average person covers a distance of approximately 55 ft. (16.8 m) in 10 seconds when walking at a
normal pace. The physical and emotional state of a potential victim (visually impaired, with some level of
discomfort/pain, and possibly in a state of panic) should be considered along with the likelihood of
personnel in the immediate area to assist. The installer should also consider other potential hazards that
may be adjacent to the path of travel that might cause further injury. A single step up into an enclosure
where the equipment can be accessed is not considered to be an obstruction. Additionally, installers
should allow for adequate overhead clearance to accommodate the presence of cabinets over counter- or
faucet- mounted emergency eyewashes, so as not to create an additional hazard that could be
encountered when using the device.

A door is considered to be an obstruction. Where the hazard is not corrosive, one intervening door can be
present so long as it opens in the same direction of travel as the person attempting to reach the
emergency eyewash and shower equipment and the door is equipped with a closing mechanism that
cannot be locked to impede access to the equipment.

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In situations that might warrant the placement of emergency eyewash and shower equipment close to the
hazard, such as exposure to highly corrosive chemicals, the appropriate professional should be contacted
for advice on the proper distances. Equipment should be located adjacent to the hazard, but situated in
such a manner such that exposure to the splash hazard or other hazards (e.g., exposed electrical
conductors) does not occur while using the eyewash.

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°C (100°F) 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°C (60°F)
is suitable for the lower parameter for tepid flushing fluid without causing hypothermia to the equipment
user.

B7. Weekly Activation for Plumbed Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment

The intent of the weekly activation to be conducted on plumbed emergency eyewash and shower
equipment is to ensure that there is a flushing fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the supply
line of any sediment build-up that could prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the device and
minimize microbial contamination due to stagnant water. The duration of this test is dependant on the
volume of water contained in the unit itself and all sections of pipework that do not form part of a constant
circulation system (also known as “dead leg” portions). Water in these sections is stagnant until a flow is
activated by opening a valve. The goal is to flush out stagnant water in the dead leg completely. Where
mixing valves are used, both the hot water and cold water supplies to the valve must be considered.

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REFERENCES

Independent study results: Placement Dimension Verification, provided by Anthrotech, Yellow Springs,
OH, 2002

ASPE Plumbing Engineering Design Handbook Vol. 4, Chapter 1, American Society of Plumbing
Engineers, 2012

Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment: A Comprehensive Literature Review and Comparison,
American Society of Plumbing Engineers Research Foundation, 2008

Clinical Ophthalmology, Harper & Row, 1992, Vol. 2, Chapter 21

Human Engineering Guide to Equipment Design, Woodson, W. E. and Conover, D. W., Army, Navy, Air
Force Steering Committee, United States Government, 1972

Human Engineering Guide for Equipment Designers, University of California Press, 1964, 2nd ed.

United States Air Force Flight Surgeon’s Manual, Chapter 20, 1991,Third ed.

United States Coast Guard lifesaving and fire safety standards for commercial ships and recreational
boats – Cold Water Survival

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