OAR 437-004-6509: Emergency eye-washes and eye flushing supplies

(1) Whenever a handler is mixing or loading a pesticide product whose labeling includes the signal word “Danger” or “Danger/Poison,” due to toxicity to the eye or the possibility of permanent eye damage; or, a handler is mixing or loading any pesticide using a closed system operating under pressure, the employer must provide at each mixing/loading site available to the handler at least one eye-wash system that meets the applicable eyewash requirements. For employers subject to the Division 4 rules, Division 4/K, OAR 437-004-1305(5) applies. For employers subject to the Division 2 and/or Division 7 rules, Division 2/K, OAR 437-002-0161 applies. (2) Whenever a handler is applying a pesticide product whose labeling requires protective eyewear for handlers, the handler employer must provide at least one pint of water per handler in portable containers that are immediately available to each handler. NOTE: The eye-wash rules referenced include the following minimum requirements: Locate the eye-wash so that exposed employees can reach it and begin treatment in 10 seconds or less. The path must be unobstructed and cannot require the opening of doors or passage through obstacles unless other employees are always present to help the exposed employee. Install the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Follow the equipment manufacturer’s criteria for water pressure, flow rate and testing to ensure proper operation of the system. Eye-wash water must flow for at least 15 minutes. The eyewash must have valves that stay open without the use of the hands. The water to the equipment must not be subject to unauthorized shut-off. If eyewash facilities can freeze, take protective measures to prevent freezing. Equipment must be clean, sanitary and operating correctly. In self-contained systems, do not use solutions or products past their expiration date.