Working with plant protection products, mineral fertilisers, fuels and other chemicals used in agricultural production and during the storage and marketing of agricultural products, raises the risk of these substances coming into direct contact with a worker’s body.
An object of particular concern are the eyes, contamination of which, in the absence of appropriate countermeasures, can have irreversible consequences. The obligation to provide eye-wash facilities at workplaces where there is a risk of an employee being doused with corrosive substances is referred to in § 103 of the Regulation of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy of 26 September 1997 on general occupational safety and health regulations (Journal of Laws 2003, No. 169, item 1650).
Eye-wash facilities should be clearly marked with the sign GG003 – Eye-wash shower (according to EN ISO 7010) and located no more than 20 m in a horizontal line from chemical workstations, with unobstructed access from three directions. They should be supplied by running, unheated water and allow immediate activation (also hands-free) and also by persons with reduced mobility. All eye washers must be tested on a regular, weekly basis.
To ensure the correct use of the washer, all persons concerned should be trained in its correct operation. Contaminated eyes should be flushed out for at least 15 minutes and medical or nursing help should be sought immediately.