Workplace Eyewash Stations and Solutions: Planning and Maintenance Guide
Workplace eyewash planning begins with a hazard assessment. The correct equipment, placement and flushing capability depend on the substances and tasks involved. Portable bottles can be useful supplemental supplies, but they should not be assumed to replace equipment required by legislation, a standard or the hazard assessment.
Reviewed and updated: July 2026
Key takeaways
- Assess corrosives, irritants, dusts and other eye exposures before buying equipment.
- Keep the route to emergency equipment unobstructed and identify it clearly.
- Inspect, activate and replace supplies on the schedule required by the manufacturer and workplace program.
Which type of eyewash equipment fits which role?
| Option | Potential role | Planning question |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbed eyewash | Fixed station connected to a continuous water supply | Can it deliver the required flushing performance and suitable fluid temperature? |
| Self-contained station | Stored flushing fluid where plumbing is unavailable | How is fluid maintained, replaced and protected from contamination? |
| Eye/face wash | Broader flushing coverage for eyes and face | Does the hazard assessment call for additional facial coverage? |
| Personal eyewash bottle | Immediate supplemental flushing while reaching appropriate equipment | Is it being treated only as the product instructions and workplace plan allow? |
Where should an eyewash station be located?
CCOHS advises consulting the occupational health and safety authority in the applicable jurisdiction and checking the relevant legislation. Location decisions should account for travel time, an unobstructed route, visibility, accessibility and whether doors, stairs or changing floor levels could delay access. The equipment must remain reachable during the work being performed.
What should a maintenance program include?
- Assign a named person or role to inspect the equipment.
- Follow the manufacturer's activation, cleaning and fluid-replacement schedule.
- Check caps, nozzles, seals, drainage and the route to the station.
- Record each inspection without covering operating instructions.
- Replace expired, opened, leaking, contaminated or damaged supplies.
- Train workers on the location and correct use before an emergency.
Eyewash purchasing checklist
- Hazards and safety data sheets have been reviewed.
- Provincial or territorial requirements have been checked.
- Required flushing duration, flow and temperature are understood.
- The station will be accessible to every exposed worker.
- Maintenance parts, replacement fluid and inspection responsibilities are planned.
Frequently asked questions
Can a sink faucet serve as an eyewash?
Do not assume it can. Equipment must meet the requirements identified by the hazard assessment, applicable rules and any relevant standard.
Are sealed eyewash bottles enough on their own?
They may serve a supplemental role, but their limited volume and delivery differ from a compliant station. Confirm the intended role before relying on them.
Does an eyewash station replace protective eyewear?
No. Emergency equipment is part of response planning; it does not replace controls that prevent exposure.
Explore eyewash products, workplace safety supplies and the central FAQ. For help comparing available products, contact Smith Safety Group.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information. Emergency-equipment requirements vary by hazard and jurisdiction; consult the applicable authority and a qualified safety professional.