Eyewash station weekly inspection checklist
A plain, printable checklist for the weekly eyewash check. Use it on paper, or put it on a QR sticker with F.O.R.C. — Facilities Operational Reports & Compliance so every check gets a name and a time.
Print this checklist · Do it by QR, free →
What the rules say (short version)
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151(c): where someone's eyes or body may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing have to be provided in the work area for immediate emergency use. (osha.gov 1910.151)
- ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 is the consensus standard most sites use for the details. It calls for plumbed units to be activated weekly, a full inspection every year, a location you can reach in about 10 seconds, and enough tepid flushing fluid for 15 minutes. Self-contained (bottle or tank) units follow the manufacturer's instructions for service and fluid changes.
OSHA's rule doesn't spell out a weekly check, but many employers, insurers, and auditors expect the ANSI practice. Check what applies to your site. This checklist is a practical starting point, not legal advice, and using it doesn't guarantee compliance.
Printable checklist
Station ID / location: ____________________ Type: ☐ Plumbed ☐ Self-contained ☐ Combination shower
Week of: ____________ Inspected by: ____________________ Date: ________
| # | Check | OK | Problem |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Path to the station is clear, nothing stacked in front | ☐ | ☐ |
| 2 | Sign is visible and the area is well lit | ☐ | ☐ |
| 3 | Dust covers are in place and pop off when activated | ☐ | ☐ |
| 4 | Activated the valve: it opens in one motion and stays on hands-free | ☐ | ☐ |
| 5 | Ran water until it came out clear (plumbed units) | ☐ | ☐ |
| 6 | Both streams flow evenly, with no leaks at the valve or piping | ☐ | ☐ |
| 7 | Water feels tepid, not cold or hot | ☐ | ☐ |
| 8 | Bowl and nozzles are clean, with no rust, scale or debris | ☐ | ☐ |
| 9 | Self-contained: fluid level OK, within its expiration date, sealed | ☐ | ☐ |
| 10 | Drain or catch is working; no standing water left behind | ☐ | ☐ |
Problems found / action taken: ________________________________________
If anything fails: tag it, tell your supervisor, and make sure people working nearby know where the next closest working station is until it's fixed.
Tips from the floor
- Actually run it. Looking at a station isn't a weekly check. Flushing it clears out stagnant water and shows you whether it really works.
- Watch the path. In my experience, the station itself is usually fine. What fails is the pallet someone parked in front of it.
- Bottle units expire. Write the replacement date somewhere you'll see it.
- Check the tepid water too. If you've got a mixing valve, put it on your annual list.
Doing it by QR code
Put a F.O.R.C. sticker next to each station. Whoever does the weekly round scans it, answers the same items on their phone, and submits. Every check is saved with a name and a time, failed items are flagged, missed weeks show up, and you can export CSV or PDF anytime.
Free for 1 site and 3 pieces of equipment. See pricing →
More checklists
More: Equipment inspection records: what auditors ask for · How QR equipment inspections work
FAQ
How often should an eyewash station be checked?
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 calls for plumbed units to be activated weekly and fully inspected every year. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for self-contained units.
Does OSHA require weekly eyewash testing?
OSHA 1910.151(c) requires suitable flushing facilities where corrosives are a hazard, but doesn't itself list a weekly test. The weekly activation comes from ANSI Z358.1, which many employers, insurers and auditors follow.
How long should it flush?
ANSI Z358.1 calls for enough flushing fluid for 15 minutes. The weekly check is a shorter run, long enough to clear the line and confirm it works.
Is this checklist free?
Yes. Print it and use it. No sign-up needed.
Does F.O.R.C. make my eyewash program compliant?
No. F.O.R.C. keeps records of the checks you do. Your team stays responsible for the equipment and safety decisions.
Questions: forc@theorc.dev