In any New Zealand workplace where hazardous materials are a concern, prioritizing safety is essential. Emergency safety showers and eyewash stations are vital parts of a workplace's emergency response infrastructure, offering critical protection against chemical exposures and eye injuries. Here's an overview of these important safety installations and their functions.
Emergency Safety Showers and Eyewash Stations Terminology
Safety Showers: Often referred to as deluge showers, safety showers are designed to provide immediate dousing to the entire body in case of chemical spillage or splashes. Their primary goal is to dilute and remove hazardous substances from the skin swiftly, thereby reducing the risk and severity of chemical burns and other related injuries. They can be activated by Hand, Foot or Walk on grate activation.
Eyewash Stations: These stations are purposed for eye decontamination, providing a steady water flow to flush out chemicals, debris, or foreign bodies. This process is crucial in averting further injury or discomfort to the eyes, ensuring rapid removal of any harmful substances. They can be activated by Hand, Foot or Walk on grate activation.
Eye/Face Wash Units Versus Eyewash Stations
An eye/face wash unit expands on the concept of the traditional eyewash station by incorporating additional jets that target the face, offering comprehensive cleansing for both the eyes and facial area. Operable via hand or foot lever or walk on grate activation, these units can function with or without a sink, providing an enhanced safety feature.
Combination Safety Showers and Eye or Eye/Face wash units
These are our most commonly requested product and are a combined unit including both the Safety Shower and a Eye or Eye/Face wash unit. They have the ability to function independently and covers a wider array of risks.
New Zealand Standards for Safety Showers and Eyewash Stations
In New Zealand, the standards governing safety showers and eyewash stations are stringent, ensuring that these devices are effective in emergency scenarios. New Zealand adheres to Australian Standard AS4775.2007 – Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment. This standard lays down the criteria for design, installation, operation, and maintenance of emergency safety equipment, guaranteeing their reliability when needed most.
These regulations mandate that safety showers and eyewash stations be readily accessible, marked with clear signage, and capable of delivering tepid water and pressure conditions. They should also be situated within a quick reach from hazardous material handling areas, to facilitate immediate access during emergencies.
Conclusion
The presence of safety showers and eyewash stations is critical in safeguarding the health and safety of employees in New Zealand workplaces where chemicals are used or stored. These devices offer a first line of defense against chemical-related injuries, emphasizing the importance of quick and effective emergency response measures.
For those seeking a wide range of emergency safety showers, eyewash stations, and combination units tailored to New Zealand standards, explore our selection at DG Safety. Our offerings reflect our commitment to making safety easy and accessible for all.
Remember, rapid response is key in the event of chemical exposure or an eye injury. Ensuring that safety showers and eyewash stations are well-maintained and within easy reach is vital for protecting yourself and your colleagues from potential hazards.
DG Safety has been providing Dangerous Goods Storage Cabinets and Safety Showers throughout New Zealand and Australia for over twenty years. Therefore please reachout to our Customer Service team if you have any questions.