In a recent Q&A on the FacilityCare website, consultant Brad Keyes answered a question about keeping non-ANSI-approved eyewash stations.
Q: Is it better to have an eyewash station that doesn’t comply with ANSI standards or to remove it and contradict the Joint Commission’s safety regulation?
A: It is not a violation of a Joint Commission standard to have an eyewash station that does not meet the requirements ANSI guidelines in areas where there are no caustic or hazardous chemicals. However, if there is a need for an eyewash station due to caustic or hazardous chemicals being used, then OSHA has issued interpretive letters that state that its inspectors will use the ANSI Z358.1-2009 standard to determine compliance.
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