TRUST BUT VERIFY: Eyewash stations
The Hidden Risks of Neglected Eyewash Stations
When it comes to workplace safety, eyewash stations are one of the most overlooked pieces of emergency equipment (until they’re needed). But simply having them isn’t enough. Regular, documented maintenance is crucial. Even then, there's one critical principle we stress to every business: Trust, but verify.
Just because a tag says “Serviced” doesn’t always mean the unit is safe, functional, or hygienic. In fact, we've recently encountered eyewash stations marked as “inspected”, but the water inside was visibly contaminated, even growing mold.
Yes, MOLD.
An Eyewash Horror Story
Our First Aid Reps have recently uncovered a disturbing trend: multiple eyewash stations filled with visibly contaminated water.
Even more alarming? These stations were marked as "Inspected" - but how thorough was the inspection if such an obvious hazard was completely overlooked?
The businesses we visited were certain that their eyewashes were compliant. We don't blame them - they were paying professionals to ensure just that. Unfortunately, when we went in to evaluate, the water told a different, very unsettling, story.
Thankfully, we caught these issues in time (before an emergency caused someone to flush their eyes with moldy water... yikes)! But other facilities may not be so lucky. That's why we're sharing this: trust your safety provider, but always verify. Don't assume compliance - check it. Lives (and eyesight) may depend on it.
Why Eyewash Maintenance Matters More Than You Think
Eyewash stations are designed to provide immediate relief and flushing in case of chemical splashes, dust exposure, or other eye-related hazards. However, improperly maintained stations can turn into a source of infection rather than protection – sometimes causing even more damage than relief.
Common Contaminants in Neglected Units
Eyewash stations that sit unused and unflushed can become breeding grounds for microorganisms like:
- Acanthamoeba – Can cause a rare but serious eye infection (Acanthamoeba keratitis) that can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa – A common waterborne bacterium that can infect damaged skin and eyes.
- Legionella – The bacteria behind Legionnaires’ disease, which is contracted by inhaling contaminated water vapor.
These organisms thrive in stagnant or untreated water (especially in warm or humid environments or in units where flushing hasn’t been performed regularly or correctly).
Vulnerable Workers Are at Greater Risk
Exposure to contaminated water can lead to:
- Eye infections
- Corneal ulcers
- Respiratory infections (if inhaled mist is contaminated)
- Systemic illnesses in immune-compromised workers
In severe cases, the consequences include permanent vision damage, hospitalization, or even life-threatening pneumonia.
What OSHA and ANSI Say
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI/ISEA Z358.1) sets strict requirements for eyewash station installation and maintenance, including:
- Weekly activation to flush out stagnant water and ensure proper function
- Annual inspections to certify compliance
- Proper water temperature (60–100°F)
- Hands-free activation and 15-minute continuous flow
If your provider isn't meeting these standards, your equipment (and more importantly, your employees) are at risk.
Trust Your Provider, But Also Verify
We get it… facility managers are busy. You rely on service providers like us to maintain your emergency equipment. But recent cases have shown that just relying on the tag or checklist isn’t enough.
We’ve seen eyewash stations filled with murky water or covered in grime. These were units that were supposedly “serviced” just weeks ago. That’s not just a service failure. That’s a liability for your business.
Here's how you can verify:
- Inspect weekly. A quick visual check can reveal mold, discoloration, or foul odors.
- Test flush. Open the unit and ensure water runs clear and continuously for 15 minutes.
- Ask questions. Your provider should be able to show logs, explain what was done, and provide documentation.
- Take photos. If something looks wrong, document it and escalate the issue.
The Bottom Line
Eyewash stations are like insurance - you hope you never need them, but when you do, they must work. Contaminated eyewash can turn an emergency response into a second emergency.
Don’t leave your workers’ safety to chance. Trust your service provider, but verify that the service is real, thorough, and meets all applicable standards.
If you’re not sure about the state of your stations, reach out. We’ll walk you through what proper service looks like - and make sure you never find mold in your eyewash again.
Got an Eyewash Station You're Unsure About?
Send us a photo. We’ll give you a free evaluation and show you exactly what to look for. Don't pay for a service that isn't meeting the standard.
READY TO PROTECT YOUR WORKPLACE?
Contact us today for a free safety assesment of your facility.
