About Eye Wash Kits

What is an eye wash kit?

An eye wash kit helps clean the eyes of foreign objects or liquids that enter the eye. Normally, it includes an eye wash solution and sterile eye pads. Some also come as a station with a handy mirror for use.

Why are eye wash kits important?

Eye wash kits are essential in environments where there are risks of debris, dangerous chemicals or small particles, entering the eyes. Industries like construction, manufacturing and carpentry all risk dust or small, sharp fragments getting into the eyes. Similarly, eye wash kits are considered essential in laboratories where chemicals are used.

The eye drop solution can be applied to the eye to help flush out foreign objects and remove any irritants from the area. A sterile eye pad can be used to either cover the eye, wipe away the debris, or catch it during irrigation. Quick treatment can stop the eye from feeling sore or irritated.

Legal requirements of eye wash kits

Any legal requirement to store an eye wash kit in your place of work is covered under Health and Safety (First Aid at Work) Regulations 1981. Although it’s not included under the minimum content requirements, if you work with chemicals or there’s a risk of foreign objects entering the eyes, you’ll need an eye wash kit to ensure compliance.

If your risk assessment identifies a probability of foreign objects or liquids getting into the eyes of workers, you must have an eye wash kit or station to ensure it can be treated almost immediately.

Where should eye wash kits be located?

To ensure immediate use in case of emergency, eye wash kits should be located within areas where risks are high and placed near sinks or washing facilities. For example, when required in laboratories, they should be housed within the area, either on the wall or secured within a cabinet. Likewise, at manufacturing sites, they should be available where there is a higher probability of debris and dust, such as near sharp cutting instruments. That way, eye wash kits can be grabbed within seconds of an incident occurring.

Where an eye wash kit is required, as advised by your workplace’s risk assessment, you’ll need to ensure there is adequate signage to accompany it. In higher-risk areas, such as workshops or laboratories, they should be easily locatable.

Who needs eye wash kits?

Industries that pose a higher risk, such as science and construction, need eye wash kits to ensure compliance with HSE requirements. Eye wash kits should be within easy reach for those who require them.

It can also be a good idea to stock an eye wash kit if you have young children or work with children and vulnerable adults. Having an eye wash nearby ensures immediate treatment when needed and can wash away dirt, sand and dust.

How to use and maintain eye wash kits

Before using an eye wash kit, you must first check that eye drops or saline solutions are in date and that sterile eye pads have not expired. If they have expired, been opened or damaged, you’ll need to replace them immediately.

The eye wash solution is designed to be administered to the eye to remove debris and foreign objects. Eye irrigation is often covered as part of first aid training courses. Sterile eye pads can either be used to cover the eye, wipe away the debris from the cheek or catch the object during an eye wash.

Once you have used these items, they should be discarded safely. You may need to restock any eye wash or pads used. Before closing the kit, double-check expiration dates to ensure there is still plenty of time left for other users.

Summary

Eye wash kits ensure immediate treatment when dirt or foreign objects enter the eye. Often compiled of an eye wash solution, sterile eye pads and compact mirror, they support high-risk industries where chemicals or dirt are likely to penetrate the eye.