Face and Eyewash Fountain

OK-II Lab Opti-Klens Face and Eyewash Fountain



Face and eyewash fountains are must-haves during an emergency. Immediate flushing of the eyes and face is critical after exposure to chemicals and other hazardous substances. It can take only seconds to sustain a serious injury. The Opti-Klens system, however, allows for decontamination right on the spot, so workers do not delay treatment in laboratory or other settings where there could be substance exposure.
The OK-II eyewash station provides an additional line of defense. Sometimes face shields and goggles don’t do the trick or a worker wasn’t using them at the time of exposure. The station allows for immediate rinsing. While the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) doesn’t specify guidelines on how long to wash, chemical splashes can require 15 to 60 minutes of rinsing to fully protect a person from harm.
The ANSI does require such equipment to be reachable within 10 seconds of an emergency1—so they should be located not more than 55 feet from locations where exposure is most likely to occur.
Benefits of the OK-II Fountain
The Opti Klens eyewash station is designed for laboratory emergencies. It can deliver over three gallons per minute, so users have an unlimited water supply. Mounting to most standard faucets, it features two upward curving spray nozzles. Users can use their hands to hold both eyes open for full exposure to the water. The unit does not require any additional plumbing.
An eyewash is a must for laboratory and other settings where chemicals and toxic, corrosive, or hazardous compounds are used. In addition to location, other important aspects outlined by OSHA include:
• Water temperature: This should be between 60 and 100°F to ensure optimal protection.2
• Location: The unit should be immediately adjacent to hazards, such as acids.
• Supply: Water should be available for at least 15 minutes.
• Disposal: Waste connections and drains must meet environmental regulations.
• Signage: Signs and markings must have white backgrounds and green letters, per ANSI guidelines.
• Training: Workers must know where the units are and how to operate them.
• Maintenance: Units must be flushed of sediment/debris/bacteria weekly and inspected annually.

A second fountain available from Medical Device Depot offers spray nozzles that curve upwards at a 15-degree angle greater than the standard model. Fitting laboratory gooseneck faucets, a third model integrates an eliminator valve. This addresses a common safety concern—water temperature. The valve allows it to be pre-set at the faucet and has a push plunger, so users can instantly start the water flow.

Finding the Best Eyewash Station
To determine the ideal product, consider the chemicals and hazards your workers are exposed to. An eyewash sink attachment is more beneficial than an emergency shower that can provide too much pressure, which can cause serious eye damage. The shower option is more appropriate if other parts of the body come in contact with hazardous chemicals.
For the latest Opti-Klens eyewash fountain models from Medical Device Depot, view our options online. Call us at 877-646-3300 for help selecting or purchasing your order.
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