How to Handle Eye Emergencies Without an Eyewash Station
In areas where the handling of hazardous chemicals and waste is a normal occurrence such as in the industrial field and construction field, the key to staying safe is to always be prepared.
How can you do this? By having spill kits at the ready, preventive measures and processes that everyone is trained in place and having ready eyewash stations for eye emergencies.
However, while this is the ideal set-up for complete protection in the workplace, we understand that it is not always possible — which is why we’ve come up with ways to help you be prepared in handling eye emergencies without having an eyewash station.
What are Eye Emergencies?
Understanding the types of eye emergencies is the first step in providing proper care and preventive actions in the workplace. Some of the common eye emergencies in the workplace may include:
- Chemical splashes
- Foreign objects
- Cuts and punctures
- Burns (thermal or chemical)
These emergencies are harmful in nature as it deals with hazardous chemicals and waste. Should it happen to you, your priority must be to make sure you treat your eye accordingly and remove any residue immediately.
Immediate Response Steps
Chemical Splashes
Chemical splashes are one of the most common eye emergencies. Whether in a laboratory, factory, or even at home, chemicals can cause severe damage to the eyes.
- Identify the Chemical: Determine what substance caused the splash. This information will be crucial for medical professionals.
- Flush with Water: Use clean, lukewarm water to flush the eye continuously. Direct a gentle stream of water into the affected eye, ensuring the eyelids are kept open. Continue flushing for at least 15 minutes.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the symptoms seem to improve, it is vital to get medical help. Some chemicals can cause delayed damage.
Foreign Objects
Foreign objects in the eye can range from small particles like dust to larger debris like metal shards.
- Do Not Rub the Eye: Rubbing can cause further damage or embed the object deeper.
- Flush with Water: If the object is small and not embedded, try to flush it out with clean water. Use a cup or a clean water source to pour water gently over the eye.
- Avoid Using Tools: Do not attempt to use tweezers or other tools to remove the object, as this can cause more harm.
- Cover and Seek Help: If flushing does not remove the object, cover the eye with a clean cloth or eye patch and seek medical attention immediately.
Cuts and Punctures
Cuts and punctures to the eye are serious emergencies that require immediate professional care.
- Do Not Wash the Eye: Avoid rinsing or washing the eye.
- Protect the Eye: Place a protective cover over the eye. A clean cup or eye shield can help prevent further injury.
- Avoid Pressure: Do not apply any pressure to the injured eye.
- Get Emergency Medical Help: Contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
Burns
Eye burns can result from exposure to heat, chemicals, or radiation.
- Chemical Burns: Follow the steps for chemical splashes.
- Thermal Burns: If the burn is from heat, gently flush the eye with cool water.
- Protect and Seek Help: Cover the eye with a sterile bandage or cloth and get medical assistance immediately.
Read: The Essential Role oF Emergency Showers and Eyewash Stations in Maintaining a Safe Workplace
When to Seek Professional Help during Eye Emergencies
Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial. While immediate first aid can mitigate damage, professional medical evaluation is often necessary for complete treatment and recovery — which is why it is recommended as the last step for handling emergencies like this should the problem persist.
If after handling your eye emergency with the necessary steps outlined above and you still feel lingering pain, discomfort or anything unnatural in your eye area, it is best to go seek professional help immediately.
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Handling eye emergencies effectively without an eyewash station involves quick thinking and knowing how to be able to handle it with what you currently have.
By understanding the types of eye emergencies and the appropriate immediate response steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of long-term damage — keeping you and your workplace safe from harm.
Need Help in Protecting Your Workplace?
Being able to safely handle hazardous chemicals is one of the top priorities for companies who are in this industry. That being said, our quality eyewash station options are a great addition to your workplace to keep everyone safe and able to handle eye emergencies.
Visit our website to see more products we offer, or contact our team for a spill kit servicing. Enhance the safety of your organisation without compromising your obligations to our environment with Ecospill!