According to OSHA, there is a chance of infection whenever eyewash stations are not properly overseen. Such stations are required whenever a worker may encounter substances with more than 0.1 percent or greater formaldehyde. They must also be present whenever a person may encounter corrosive chemicals or who is working in laboratories researching HIV or HBV. Research and medical facilities may keep them to ensure eye safety for anyone who may come into contact with such materials.
If water is left standing or improperly treated, it could become a breeding ground for organisms that could cause infections. These organisms could also be easily transmitted through the eye if a worker already has an infection. Furthermore, these organisms could be transmitted through the skin and nose when inhaled. If a worker has a vulnerable immune system, it is possible to contract illnesses when interacting with dirty or stagnant water.
To reduce the odds of workers coming into contact with anything that could harm them, OSHA recommends that employers comply with American National Standards Institute guidelines. These entail activating any plumbed system at least once a week as well as following manufacturer guidelines that will help an employer keep their workers safe. One such guideline is to refrain from using any solution that is not suitable for the human eye.
People who are injured while at work may be eligible to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. These could include the provision of necessary medical care as well as a percentage of any lost wages while the victim is absent from work. Many work accident victims choose to obtain the assistance of legal counsel when preparing and filing their claim.