Your eyes are vulnerable. In a place where wood, metal or harmful substances are used, you must therefore be alert and protect your eyes well against flying particles. If (harmful) particles do get into your eye, it is important to rinse your eye as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage. Good preparation is half the battle. In this blog we therefore explain in detail how to rinse your eye after a calamity. What should you do and what should you better not do?
Why rinse an eye?
Rinsing your eyes may seem annoying or scary. However, it is extremely important to rinse your eyes properly when something has gotten into them. Eyes can quickly become irritated or even damaged. If an eye comes into contact with small particles, this can cause permanent damage. The particles can get stuck and irritate or damage the cornea. If you are often in an environment with dust, dirt or chemicals, it is wise to always have an eyewash solution at hand. This can easily rinse the harmful particles out of the eye.
Rinsing eyes with tap water, yes or no?
You are probably wondering whether you can’t just rinse your eye with tap water. You can, but this is often not enough. The chance of infection of the eye remains. This is because tap water is not sterile. Bacteria and viruses can therefore remain in the eye if you rinse it with tap water alone. An eye rinse consists of a sterile sodium chloride that reduces the chance of infections and is also mild for the eyes.
How do you flush your eyes?
Rinsing an eye is best done with an eyewash (also called an eye shower). But how does that work exactly? How do you rinse with an eyewash if, for example, you have gotten a corrosive substance in your eye? And how long should you rinse for?
An eyewash solution is easy to use and does not harm the eyes. All you have to do is open the rinse bottle, tilt your head back and hold the bottle with the opening on or above the eye and rinse. Most eyewash bottles have a handy eye cup that fits exactly over the eye. Depending on the particles that have come into contact with your eye, you can use a standard eyewash with sterile sodium chloride or a pH neutral eyewash. The amount of time you have to rinse depends on the type of eyewash.
Flushing foreign bodies from the eye
Have foreign objects such as dirt, dust, or metal or wood splinters gotten into your eye? Rinse your eye with a standard eyewash solution. Rinse with a gentle, steady stream for 5 minutes until the objects are removed.
Rinsing acids from the eye
In case of acids in the eye, it is important that the eye is neutralized first. Use a pH-neutral eyewash for this and rinse the eye for about 2 minutes. It is advisable to continue rinsing with a standard eyewash until you reach a doctor.
Rinsing alkali from the eye
When your eye has come into contact with Alkalis, the same applies as with acids: neutralize. Rinse your eyes for 2 minutes with a pH neutral eyewash and then use a standard eyewash until you receive medical attention.
Rinsing chemicals from the eye
If you want to remove chemicals or other corrosive substances from the eye, such as solvents or oils, use a standard eyewash and rinse until the discomfort disappears. It is wise to continue rinsing until you can be treated by a doctor.
Rinsing your eyes with an eyewash? Think about this
An eyewash is a first aid. Always consult a doctor if your eyes come into contact with harmful particles. Also take into account the following:
- Once the bottle has been opened, eyewash is no longer sterile
- Store eyewash solution in an environment with a temperature between 5°C and 25°C
- Never reuse an eyewash bottle
- Please note the expiration date
- Make sure an eyewash station is easily accessible
Eye Rinsing Aids
It should be clear: with a good eyewash you prevent permanent damage to your eyes. It is therefore advisable to have an eyewash bottle within reach in risky places. In fact, in companies where hazardous substances are used, an eyewash is even mandatory.
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Want to know more? Contact us
Do you have any questions about rinsing eyes or using eye wash stations? Please feel free to contact us. The professionals at ESE International are ready to help you and will be happy to provide you with customized advice on purchasing eye wash for your industry. Feel free to contact us for more information.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. When in doubt, always consult a qualified first aid specialist. If there are serious injuries, call 911 or go to a doctor immediately.