Guidelines for Emergency Showers and Eye Wash Stations
Essential for Safety and Reliable Operation
To ensure a safe working environment, emergency showers and eye wash stations must comply with specific standards. In Europe, the EN 15154-5 standard applies, while in the United States, the ANSI Z358.1 standard is in effect. These guidelines set requirements for the installation, operation, maintenance, and use of emergency showers, ensuring they function effectively in an emergency. By adhering to these standards, companies can ensure that employees receive quick and effective assistance in case of an incident. Our range of emergency showers and eye wash stations is fully aligned with these quality and safety requirements.
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 15154 (Parts 1 – 5)
Key requirements:
- Emergency shower: Minimum flow rate of 60 liters per minute
- Eye wash station: Minimum flow rate of 6 liters per minute
- Rinse time of at least 15 minutes
- Water must be potable (drinkable)
- Water temperature between 15°C and 37°C (preferably 20°C – 25°C)
- Showers must be easily accessible without obstacles
U.S. STANDARD ANSI Z358.1
Key requirements:
- Emergency shower: Minimum flow rate of 76 liters per minute
- Eye wash station: Minimum flow rate of 11.4 liters per minute
- Rinse time of at least 15 minutes
- Water must be potable (drinkable)
- Water temperature between 16°C and 38°C
- Showers must be easily and immediately accessible
DVGW
DVGW stands for Deutscher Verein des Gas- und Wasserfaches (German Association for Gas and Water Technology). DVGW establishes standards and certifications that ensure the safety, reliability, and hygiene of emergency showers and safety showers. This is particularly important in industrial environments, laboratories, and other workplaces where employees may be exposed to hazardous substances. DVGW is the German equivalent of Kiwa.
Key requirements:
- Reliable operation: Guaranteed water flow and temperature control.
- Hygiene: Prevention of bacterial growth and contamination of the water network.
- Safety: Protection against chemical contamination or thermal shock (water being too hot or too cold).
