The Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR 1910.151) states, "where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use."

This regulation is enforced by OSHA, who typically relies on uniform National Standards for guidance, when conducting facility inspections. The National Standard for Emergency Eyewashes and Drench Showers is ANSI Z358.1-2009 and it establishes uniform minimum performance and use requirements for Emergency Eyewash and Drench Shower Equipment and supplemental products.

The main criteria specified in the ANSI Standard that is most useful to Facility Maintenance Managers, Safety Directors, Purchasing Agents or others at a company location is as follows: Emergency Eyewash Stations & Drench Showers…

• Should be within 10 seconds from a hazard exposure area. This equates to approximately 50 - 100 feet from each hazard
• Should be placed at the same level as the hazard with a clear unobstructed pathway to the equipment
• Should have a highly visible sign on or near the equipment to designate location and have adequate lighting in the area so equipment is easy to find
• Requiring a plumbed water supply should be tested weekly to ensure proper operation and to clear the supply line of sediment build-up and minimize microbial contamination. Weekly testing should be documented on an inspection tag that is affixed to the equipment
• Is intended to be used for 15 minutes when exposure has occurred. The water supplied to the unit should be "tepid" or lukewarm to avoid risk of scalding or hypothermic shock. Any equipment that does not have the ability to provide drenching relief for 15 minutes is considered supplemental only