An emergency shower is a safety device designed to provide immediate decontamination in the event of a hazardous material or chemical spill. The purpose of an emergency shower is to provide a safe and effective way to quickly and thoroughly rinse off a person who has been exposed to hazardous materials. The showers are typically located in areas where hazardous materials are handled and used, such as laboratories, medical facilities, industrial plants, and other areas where there is a potential risk of exposure to hazardous materials.
Emergency showers are designed to provide a large volume of water in a short amount of time. The water is typically provided at a temperature of at least 15°C (60°F). The water is usually provided at a pressure of at least 54 kilopascals (kPa) (8 pounds per square inch [psi]). In some cases, the water may be provided at a higher pressure and temperature.
When an emergency shower is activated, the user stands beneath the shower head and activates the foot pedal or lever, which activates the water flow. The water flow is typically continuous for a predetermined duration of time, such as 15 minutes. The user should remain beneath the shower head for the entire duration of the shower to ensure that all areas of their body are exposed to the water.
The user should remain beneath the shower head and move around to ensure that all areas of their body are exposed to the water. During the shower, the user should ensure that their eyes and mouth are kept closed and that their skin is exposed to the water. The user should also shampoo their hair and body thoroughly.
Once the shower has been completed, the user should be checked for any remaining hazardous material and then be decontaminated, if necessary. The emergency shower should then be cleaned and disinfected before it is used again.
Emergency showers are an important part of any safety program and should be inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good working order. It is also important to ensure that the emergency shower is accessible and visible in the event of an emergency. Emergency showers should also be clearly marked with visible signage and clearly labeled with instructions on how to use it. It is important that all personnel in the area are familiar with the location and operation of the emergency shower.