How long should an emergency wash device provide a flow of water?

An emergency wash device, such as an eye wash station or a safety shower, is designed to provide immediate decontamination in case of exposure to hazardous substances. The recommended duration for the flow of water is 15 minutes. This time frame allows sufficient flushing of the affected area to effectively remove harmful chemicals or substances and to lower the risk of injury or long-term damage.

Ensuring that the water flows for this duration is critical because immediate action can significantly impact the outcome of exposure to harmful agents. During those 15 minutes, the affected individual can attempt to minimize the damage while professional medical assistance is sought. Shorter durations, such as 60 seconds, would not adequately allow for thorough decontamination, while an indefinite duration would be impractical and not feasible in most situations.