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ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 2014 APPENDIX B – INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 2014
 
APPENDIX B – INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
B1. Supply Lines
Installation procedures should be in accordance with proper plumbing practices and supply piping adequately sized to meet flow requirements.
B2. Water Capacity
The ANSI/ISEA Z358.1201x standard includes reference to a flow pressure of 207 kPa (30 psi) only in the certificationrelated sections for plumbed equipment.
This is to ensure that the testing for certification purposes is consistent and that reproducible results can be generated regardless of the laboratory conducting the testing.
It is the responsibility of the designer and owner to ensure proper flushing fluid delivery at possible low points of pressure in the plumbing system and to ensure that the plumbed equipment is installed in accordance with the flushing fluid delivery requirements specified by the equipment manufacturer.
The weekly activation of plumbed emergency eyewash and shower equipment is to be conducted at normal facility operating pressures.  Excess flow pressure can deliver water to the equipment at velocities that could injure the user or render the equipment inoperable.  
Caution should be exercised with flow pressures over 0.552 kPa (80 psi).
B3. Valve Operation
In the interest of safety, a control valve remaining open is most desirable to allow the user the use of both hands for disrobing or holding the eyes open.  However, a selfclosing valve may be permitted in a school laboratory situation as a limited exception only where the enforcing authority is of the opinion that the hazard posed is not a serious threat.
B4. Alarm Devices
In addition to the equipment identification required by ANSI/ISEA Z358.12014, users may also want to use audible alarms or warning lights to indicate that the unit is in operation.  
These are particularly important in remote areas.
Many companies connect valves electrically to warning lights or buzzers in central dispatch areas to alert the appropriate authorities when the unit is in use.
B5. Placement of Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment
Emergency eyewash and shower equipment should be available for immediate use, but in no instance should it take an individual longer than 10 seconds to reach the nearest facility.
There are several factors that might influence the location of emergency facilities.  It is recognized that the average person covers a distance of approximately 55 ft. (16.8 m) in 10 seconds when walking at a normal pace.  
The physical and emotional state of a potential victim (visually impaired, with some level of discomfort/pain, and possibly in a state of panic) should be considered along with the likelihood of personnel in the immediate area to assist.
The installer should also consider other potential hazards that may be adjacent to the path of travel that might cause further injury.
A single step up into an enclosure where the equipment can be accessed is not considered to be an obstruction.  
Additionally, installers should allow for adequate overhead clearance to accommodate the presence of cabinets over counter- or faucet- mounted emergency eyewashes, so as not to create an additional hazard that could be encountered when using the device.
A door is considered to be an obstruction.  
Where the hazard is not corrosive, one intervening door can be present so long as it opens in the same direction of travel as the person attempting to reach the emergency eyewash and shower equipment and the door is equipped with a closing mechanism that cannot be locked to impede access to the equipment.ANSI/ISEA Z358.12014
In situations that might warrant the placement of emergency eyewash and shower equipment close to the hazard, such as exposure to highly corrosive chemicals, the appropriate professional should be contacted for advice on the proper distances.  Equipment should be located adjacent to the hazard, but situated in such a manner such that exposure to the splash hazard or other hazards (e.g., exposed electrical
conductors) does not occur while using the eyewash.
B6. Delivered Flushing Fluid Temperature
Continuous and timely irrigation of affected tissues for the recommended irrigation period are the principal factors in providing first aid.  
Providing flushing fluid at temperatures conducive to use for the recommended irrigation period is considered an integral part of providing suitable facilities.  Medical recommendations suggest a flushing fluid at tepid temperatures be delivered to affected chemically injured tissue.  
Temperatures in excess of 38°C (100°F) have proven to be harmful to the eyes and can
enhance chemical interaction with the skin and eye tissue.  
Consideration should be given to the impact of isolated ambient temperature changes. Colder ambient temperature might require an enclosure for added protection.
Warmer ambient temperature might require a reevaluation of the water temperature.
While cold flushing fluid temperatures provide immediate cooling after chemical contact, prolonged exposure to cold fluids affect the ability to maintain adequate body temperature and can result in the premature cessation of first aid treatment.  
Recent information indicates that a temperature of 16°C (60°F) is suitable for the lower parameter for tepid flushing fluid without causing hypothermia to the equipment
user.
B7. Weekly Activation for Plumbed Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment
The intent of the weekly activation to be conducted on plumbed emergency eyewash and shower equipment is to ensure that there is a flushing fluid supply at the head of the device and to clear the supply line of any sediment buildup that could prevent fluid from being delivered to the head of the device and minimize microbial contamination due to stagnant water.  
The duration of this test is dependant on the volume of water contained in the unit itself and all sections of pipework that do not form part of a constant circulation system (also known as “dead leg” portions).  Water in these sections is stagnant until a flow is activated by opening a valve. The goal is to flush out stagnant water in the dead leg completely. Where mixing valves are used, both the hot water and cold water supplies to the valve must be considered.