HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES ON A WORKPLACE
In workplaces, it is mainly two substances that cause the greatest risk of eye injuries: alkaline substances and acids. Eyes have a neutral pH value (pH 7) and what happens when alkalis or acids get into the eyes is that the pH of the eye changes and corrosion begins.
To counteract this process, eye wash is used to rinse off the corrosive substances and restore the pH in the eye. By using a buffered eye wash the natural pH value of the eye is restored more quickly and effectively than with normal sodium chloride solution.
Here are some examples of alkalis:
- Ammonia
- Cement
- Lye
- Dishwasher detergents
- Sodium carbonate
Here are some examples of acids:
- Sulfuric acid (battery acid)
- Phosphoric acid
- Hydrochloric acid