Safety & Compliance · SOP

Warehouse Eyewash Station Monthly Activation Check

Mandatory monthly activation test procedure for all plumbed and self-contained eyewash stations in warehouse and industrial environments. Ensures compliance with ANSI Z358.1, WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 7, and CSA Z432 standards for emergency eyewash equipment.

Estimated Time

15 min

Difficulty

Basic

Regulation

ANSI Z358.1

Version

1.0

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Purpose

To verify that every eyewash station in the facility delivers a sufficient, tepid, and unobstructed flow of flushing fluid within one second of activation. Monthly activation testing prevents nozzle corrosion, sediment buildup, and bacterial growth from rendering the station inoperable during a chemical exposure emergency. This procedure also confirms that flow rate, stream pattern, and water temperature meet the minimum requirements of ANSI Z358.1-2014 and WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Part 7, Section 7.2.

Scope

This SOP applies to all fixed and portable eyewash stations located within the warehouse, shipping/receiving docks, battery charging areas, chemical storage rooms, and any other zone where corrosive or irritating substances are handled. Both plumbed (piped water supply) and self-contained (gravity-feed or pressurized fluid cartridge) units are covered. Excluded: Drench showers, combination units (eyewash + shower), and vehicle-mounted portable stations — each has its own dedicated SOP.

Safety Precautions

LOTOLockout/Tagout any powered eyewash station (heated, alarmed, or self-contained with electric pump) at the breaker panel before opening access panels. Verify zero energy state with a contactless voltage tester.
CHEMIf the eyewash station is located in a chemical storage area, verify that the area is free of active spills and that the ventilation system is operating before beginning the test. Wear chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses when handling any flushing fluid that may be contaminated.
SLIPContain all discharged water with a catch basin or bucket. The floor surface near the eyewash station may become slippery — deploy absorbent mats or caution signage in high-traffic zones.
TEMPVerify that flushing fluid temperature falls between 15°C and 37°C. Water above 38°C can cause chemical absorption and tissue damage. If the water is scalding hot, tag the unit out of service immediately and contact maintenance.

Required Tools & Materials

Eyewash station activation test tag or log card (paper or digital)
Stopwatch or timer (smartphone timer acceptable)
Clean bucket or catch basin (minimum 5 L capacity)
Disposable absorbent towels or shop rags
Pen or permanent marker
Distilled water (for refill of self-contained units only, if required)
Safety glasses and nitrile gloves
Multi-tool or adjustable wrench (for opening sealed cartridge compartments)
Thermometer (infrared or immersion, optional but recommended)

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Procedure: Step-by-Step

1 Pre-Test Inspection and Lockout/Tagout. Visually inspect the eyewash station for any visible damage, leaks, or obstruction. Ensure the area around the station is clear and accessible. If the station is powered (e.g., heated or self-contained with alarm), perform lockout/tagout per facility LOTO procedure to isolate electrical supply before opening any panels.

2 Activate the Eyewash Station. Grasp the activation handle or push the activation flag firmly. For plumbed units, the water should begin flowing within 1 second. For self-contained units, verify that the fluid release mechanism has been fully triggered. Allow the water to flow for a full 60 seconds (use a stopwatch). Place the catch basin or bucket under the stream to contain splash.

3 Verify Flow Rate and Pattern. During the 60-second flow, confirm that both eyewash nozzles are delivering a steady, gentle stream. The water flow must reach at least 11.4 L/min (plumbed) or 1.5 L/min (self-contained). The streams should cross at a point between 200 mm and 300 mm above the nozzle. Adjust nozzle direction if necessary.

4 Check Water Temperature and Quality. Using a thermometer (if available), verify that the water temperature is between 15°C and 37°C (tepid). For self-contained units, inspect the fluid for any discoloration, sediment, or odour. If the fluid appears contaminated, note it on the log and schedule a full flush and refill per manufacturer guidelines.

5 Shut Down and Dry the Station. Push the activation handle back to the off position (or close the valve). Wipe down any residual water from the basin, nozzles, and surrounding area using absorbent towels. For plumbed units, confirm that the flow stops completely and there are no drips. For self-contained units, ensure the seal is properly closed.

6 Document the Inspection. Complete the activation test tag or log card with the date, time, operator name, and any observations or corrective actions. If the unit failed any criteria (flow rate, temperature, leakage, contamination), attach a red "Do Not Use" tag immediately and submit a work order for repair or servicing.

7 Restore Area and Reset Supplies. Return any moved items to their original positions. Ensure the catch basin is emptied and stored. If the station is self-contained, verify that a sealed replacement fluid cartridge is on hand for next month's test. Confirm that the station is ready for emergency use before leaving the area.

Warehouse Eyewash Station Monthly Activation Check

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