OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151(c) requires that suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body be provided in the work area where employees may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials. While OSHA does not specify eyewash station design in 1910.151, it references ANSI Z358.1 as the applicable standard in its general industry compliance documentation and enforcement guidance.

ANSI Z358.1 requires: a primary eyewash station within 10 seconds travel time (approximately 55 feet) of the hazard; water flow for a minimum of 15 continuous minutes at 0.4 GPM; tepid water (60°F–100°F); and a hands-free, stay-open valve. Weekly activation testing of the station is also required.

A primary eyewash station meets the full ANSI Z358.1 standard — it delivers tepid water for 15 continuous minutes at the required flow rate and is within 10 seconds of the hazard. Examples include plumbed eyewash stations, gravity-flow portable stations (like the Radians REW01112), and combination eye/face wash units.

A secondary (supplemental) eyewash supplements the primary station but cannot replace it. Personal eyewash bottles (Honeywell) are secondary devices — they provide immediate irrigation while the worker moves to the primary station or is transported to medical care. Wall stations with personal eyewash bottles may serve as primary stations only in lower-risk classifications; consult your facility's hazard assessment.

Yes — where a plumbed water supply is not available or practical, a self-contained portable gravity-flow eyewash station such as the Radians REW01112 can satisfy OSHA and ANSI Z358.1 requirements as a primary eyewash station, provided it:

• Delivers water for at least 15 continuous minutes at 0.4 GPM
• Uses tepid water (60°F–100°F) — may require insulation or shelter in cold environments
• Is positioned within 10 seconds of the hazard
• Has a hands-free valve that remains open without the user holding it
• Is inspected and tested weekly per ANSI Z358.1

The reservoir must be refilled and treated with bacteriostatic additive at regular intervals to prevent bacterial contamination.

ANSI Z358.1 requires:

• Weekly activation: all eyewash stations must be activated for a sufficient period each week to flush out any stagnant water and verify proper operation. This is typically 1–3 minutes for plumbed units.
• Annual inspection: all units should be inspected annually by a qualified person to verify compliance with ANSI Z358.1.
• Portable/tank stations: the water reservoir must be changed at manufacturer-recommended intervals — typically every 3–6 months — or when visual inspection indicates contamination. Use bacteriostatic additive to extend water quality between changes.

Eyewash stations must also be kept unobstructed and clearly identified with signage per ANSI Z358.1.

Bacteriostatic additive (also called eyewash preservative or antimicrobial additive) is a chemical concentrate added to the water reservoir of gravity-flow or tank-style eyewash stations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms. Without it, standing tap water in a tank or gravity-flow reservoir can become contaminated with Legionella, Pseudomonas, and other pathogens — making a contaminated eyewash station a secondary injury risk.

The Eyewash Station Additive Concentrate (8 oz.) treats 5 to 20 gallons of water and is compatible with most portable and gravity-flow stations. It does not affect water pH or cause irritation during use. Plumbed eyewash stations fed by a continuous supply of treated municipal water generally do not require additive.