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5 Frequent Mistakes Made When Purchasing a Safety Shower

Avoid These Mistakes to Guarantee Maximum Workplace Safety 

Investing in a safety shower is essential for any workplace handling hazardous materials. Having the proper equipment can be the key to preventing a minor issue from becoming a serious health emergency. However, many buyers fall into common traps that reduce the effectiveness of their safety showers. This blog post will outline five common mistakes to avoid, helping you make an informed choice and protect your employees' safety.  

  1. Overlooking the Location
    One of the most common mistakes is failing to properly consider the location of the safety shower. It’s crucial to place the safety shower and eyewash station in an easily accessible area, within 10 seconds or 15 meters of any potential hazard. The route to the emergency safety shower must be free of obstructions, well-lit, and clearly marked. A poorly positioned safety shower can delay emergency response and heighten the risk of serious injuries.
  2. Neglecting Compliance with Regulations
    Another frequent mistake is not verifying that the safety shower adheres to regulatory standards. In Australia, safety showers must comply with AS4775, which outlines the performance and installation criteria for emergency eyewash and shower equipment. Failing to meet this standard can lead to non-compliance penalties and, more critically, an inadequate emergency response in the event of a chemical spill or exposure.
  3. Neglecting Testing and Maintenance Obligations
    Many buyers overlook the importance of maintaining their safety shower or eye wash unit. Regular testing and upkeep is crucial to ensure the equipment operates properly in an emergency. This includes routine inspections for leaks, ensuring the water supply remains uncontaminated, and testing the shower to confirm adequate water flow and temperature. Neglecting maintenance can result in malfunctions during critical moments, endangering employees.
  4. Overlooking Environmental Conditions
    Environmental conditions can greatly influence the effectiveness of a safety shower. Extreme temperatures, for example, can alter the water supply, making it too hot or too cold and potentially worsening injuries rather than providing relief. Outdoor installations also require protection from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Ignoring these factors can render a safety shower unsafe and inefficient. AS4775 mandates that safety showers and eyewash stations provide tepid water to prevent further harm to individuals during emergencies.
  5. Selecting the Wrong Type of Safety Shower
    There are several types of safety showers, and choosing the wrong one can undermine safety. For instance, combination safety shower and eyewash stations are well-suited for environments with multiple hazards. Speakman safety showers are praised for their durability and performance, but selecting the right model for your specific needs is essential. Evaluating workplace risks and consulting with safety equipment experts can guide you in choosing the appropriate safety shower. 

 
Conclusion  
Buying a safety shower requires more than simply selecting a product from the shelf. By factoring in location, regulatory compliance, maintenance needs, environmental conditions, site risk assessments, and selecting the appropriate type of safety shower, you can safeguard your employees' well-being. Avoiding these common pitfalls ensures that your investment provides dependable and effective emergency response, protecting your team from hazardous materials. 

Emergency Safety Shower and Eyewash Product Guide  
For further assistance, you can download our Safety Shower and Eyewash Decision Flow Chart to help you select the best product for your specific requirements. 

Next article Brief Guide to Selecting the Appropriate Emergency Safety Shower or Eyewash for Your Workplace