In any industrial or laboratory setting where hazardous chemicals are handled, ensuring the safety of employees is paramount. Among the many safety protocols in place, the emergency safety shower stands as a critical component of workplace safety infrastructure. From chemical splashes to accidental exposures, an emergency safety shower provides the first line of defense in protecting employees from serious harm.
What is an Emergency Safety Shower?
An emergency safety shower is a piece of safety equipment designed to quickly drench a person who has been exposed to hazardous substances, such as chemicals, biological agents, or extreme heat. It typically consists of a showerhead capable of delivering a high volume of water over the entire body, ensuring contaminants are quickly and thoroughly rinsed away.
These showers are strategically installed in workplaces where there is a risk of chemical spills, splashes, or other hazardous exposures. They are often accompanied by emergency eye wash stations, which specifically target the eyes and face in case of exposure.
Why Immediate Action Matters
When an employee is exposed to a hazardous material, every second counts. Chemical burns, irritation, and absorption through the skin can happen in a matter of moments. The purpose of an emergency safety shower is to provide immediate decontamination—the faster the response, the better the chances of preventing serious injury or long-term health effects.
A delay in decontamination can lead to:
Deep tissue damage
Chemical absorption into the bloodstream
Eye damage or blindness
Inhalation hazards if vapors are present
Therefore, having a properly functioning and easily accessible emergency safety shower can mean the difference between a minor incident and a life-altering injury.
OSHA and ANSI Compliance for Safety Showers
Understanding the Standards
Compliance with regulatory standards is not optional when it comes to emergency safety showers. In the United States, the primary standards governing emergency shower equipment are set by:
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) under 29 CFR 1910.151(c), which mandates that “where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area.”
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 (and updates), which provides more detailed guidelines on the design, installation, performance, and maintenance of emergency showers and eye wash stations.
Key Compliance Points
To ensure compliance with ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 standards:
Location: Showers must be located within 10 seconds (approximately 55 feet) of the hazard.
Flow Rate: Emergency safety showers must deliver a minimum of 20 gallons per minute (GPM) for at least 15 minutes.
Water Temperature: The delivered water must be tepid, defined as between 60°F and 100°F (16°C–38°C), to prevent thermal shock or additional harm.
Accessibility: The path to the shower must be free of obstructions, with clear signage and proper lighting.
Testing: Weekly activation and annual full testing are required to ensure the system works correctly.
Failure to comply with these standards can result in OSHA citations, hefty fines, and, most importantly, increased risk to employee safety.
Training Employees on Emergency Shower Usage
Even the most advanced safety shower is ineffective without proper training. Employees must know when, where, and how to use emergency showers in an emergency.
Core Training Components
Effective training programs should cover:
Hazard Awareness: Employees must understand the risks associated with the chemicals or substances they work with and recognize situations that warrant immediate decontamination.
Emergency Response Procedures: Clear, step-by-step instructions on what to do in the event of an exposure. For example:
Activate the shower immediately—do not waste time undressing.
Remain under the shower for at least 15 minutes, ensuring thorough rinsing.
While flushing, remove contaminated clothing to prevent further exposure.
Seek medical attention promptly after decontamination.
Location Familiarity: Employees should be familiar with the exact location of all emergency showers and eye wash stations in their workspace.
Practice Drills: Conduct regular drills to reinforce procedures and reduce panic during an actual emergency.
How to Conduct Regular Safety Checks
Routine inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensuring emergency safety showers function as intended. Here’s a checklist for maintaining your equipment:
Weekly Activation: Run the shower and eye wash stations briefly to confirm proper operation and flush stagnant water.
Annual Inspection: Conduct a comprehensive check that includes flow rate testing, temperature measurements, and functional assessment.
Recordkeeping: Document all maintenance and testing activities to demonstrate compliance and track performance over time.
Visual Inspections: Check for damage, leaks, blockages, or corrosion. Replace any worn or faulty parts immediately.
By combining hands-on training with regular maintenance, you create a culture of safety and preparedness.
Real-Life Case Studies on Safety Showers
Case Study 1: Chemical Spill in a Laboratory
A laboratory technician in a chemical processing facility accidentally knocked over a container of concentrated sulfuric acid, splashing it onto their torso and arms. Thanks to the proximity of the emergency safety shower, the technician was able to reach it within seconds and begin flushing the acid off their skin. After 20 minutes under the shower and follow-up medical treatment, the technician recovered without permanent injury. The company’s compliance with ANSI standards and effective training were critical to this positive outcome.
Case Study 2: Delayed Access in a Manufacturing Plant
In contrast, a manufacturing facility that lacked sufficient emergency showers faced a devastating incident. A worker exposed to a caustic cleaning solution could not access a shower quickly due to cluttered walkways and poorly marked equipment. The delay resulted in severe chemical burns requiring skin grafts and months of recovery. This case highlights the dire consequences of non-compliance and poor facility layout.
Case Study 3: A Success Story with B-L-S Industries, Inc.
One B-L-S Industries customer—a leading agricultural processing plant—installed a combination of standard emergency safety showers and custom-designed heated enclosures to protect workers in cold-weather environments. After an accidental ammonia leak, multiple employees were able to use the showers and eye wash stations effectively, preventing serious injuries. The plant’s investment in high-quality, compliant equipment from B-L-S Industries played a key role in safeguarding its team.
Prioritize Safety with B-L-S Industries, Inc.
Since 1976, B-L-S Industries, Inc. has been dedicated to manufacturing reliable, compliant, and durable emergency safety showers and eye wash stations. Based in Carl Junction, MO, we understand the unique challenges faced by industrial facilities and laboratories across the country.
Our commitment to workplace safety drives us to provide:
Standard and custom solutions tailored to your environment.
Heated shower enclosures for cold-weather protection.
Expert guidance on selecting and maintaining the right safety equipment.
Decades of industry knowledge you can trust.
Don’t wait until an emergency happens to realize the importance of proper safety measures. Let B-L-S Industries, Inc. help you safeguard your team with top-quality emergency safety showers and eye wash stations. Partner with B-L-S Industries and ensure your facility’s needs and explore our full range of safety products.
Your employees’ safety is too important to leave to chance. Contact us today to ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.
Few systems are as vital as industrial showers when it comes to protecting workers in hazardous environments. These specialized safety solutions are designed to deliver immediate and effective decontamination, helping to prevent severe injuries in the event of chemical spills, burns, or exposure to harmful substances. Unlike standard safety showers, industrial showers are engineered to withstand harsh industrial settings, providing reliable, durable performance in environments where safety is non-negotiable.
What Are Industrial Showers?
Industrial showers are specialized emergency systems designed for use in environments with high exposure risks to hazardous chemicals, extreme temperatures, or corrosive materials. They are a crucial component of workplace safety in industries such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, mining, and laboratories.
These systems are engineered to provide a high flow rate of water, typically around 20 gallons per minute (GPM), to thoroughly drench a person who has been exposed to dangerous substances. Industrial showers are often used in conjunction with emergency eye and face wash stations, creating a comprehensive safety solution for fast decontamination.
Common Features of Industrial Showers
Industrial showers are built with robust components to handle the rigors of demanding industrial environments. Common features include:
Heavy-Duty Construction: Industrial showers are often constructed with corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or galvanized steel to withstand harsh chemicals and weather conditions.
High Flow Rates: These units deliver a continuous, powerful flow of water that ensures rapid and thorough rinsing of contaminants from the body.
Temperature Control Options: Many industrial showers can be equipped with tempered water systems or heating elements to prevent thermal shock, especially in cold climates.
Activation Mechanisms: Industrial showers use easily accessible pull rods or push plates, enabling rapid activation in emergency situations.
Drainage and Containment Systems: Some units include built-in drainage or collection systems to manage wastewater and prevent contamination of surrounding areas.
Enclosures: For extreme conditions, industrial showers may be enclosed or insulated, offering protection against environmental factors such as wind, snow, or freezing temperatures.
These features are specifically tailored to the challenges faced in industrial settings, ensuring that the equipment remains operational and effective when it’s needed most.
Differences Between Industrial and Safety Showers
While industrial showers and standard safety showers share the same fundamental purpose—emergency decontamination—they are distinct in several key aspects:
When to Use an Industrial Shower Over a Safety Shower
Choosing between an industrial shower and a standard safety shower depends on the specific hazards present in your facility:
Industrial Showers are ideal when:
Your worksite handles highly corrosive, toxic, or reactive chemicals.
The environment poses extreme temperature challenges, such as outdoor refineries or cold-storage facilities.
You need to ensure compliance with stringent industry standards like ANSI Z358.1 or OSHA 1910.151(c).
You require customized configurations, such as heated enclosures or combination units with eye/face wash stations.
Safety Showers are sufficient when:
The exposure risk is lower, such as in light manufacturing or academic labs.
You don’t need the advanced features or heavy-duty construction of an industrial-grade unit.
Ultimately, industrial showers provide enhanced safety and resilience in environments where the stakes are highest.
How to Choose the Right Industrial Shower
Selecting the appropriate industrial shower for your facility requires a careful assessment of your specific hazards, environmental conditions, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice:
1. Assess Your Workplace Hazards
Identify the chemicals, substances, or conditions that could cause harm. Are they corrosive? Toxic? Flammable? The severity and type of hazards will determine whether an industrial shower with enhanced features is necessary.
2. Consider Environmental Factors
Outdoor installations or facilities in extreme climates may require heated showers, insulated enclosures, or freeze-resistant components. Consider whether your industrial shower needs to function in freezing temperatures, high winds, or dusty environments.
3. Evaluate Flow Rates and Coverage
Ensure the shower meets or exceeds the flow rate recommendations of ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 (20 GPM for showers, 0.4 GPM for eye washes). Industrial showers typically offer higher flow rates to guarantee complete decontamination.
4. Review Activation and Accessibility
Industrial showers must be easy to activate—ideally operable within one second and accessible within 10 seconds of a hazard. Confirm that the placement of your showers meets OSHA and ANSI location requirements.
5. Verify Compliance with Industry Standards
Look for showers that comply with ANSI/ISEA Z358.1, OSHA regulations, and any other relevant industry guidelines. Compliance ensures that your equipment is up to standard and legally acceptable.
6. Partner with a Trusted Supplier
Work with a reputable provider like B-L-S Industries, Inc. to ensure you’re getting reliable, compliant equipment designed for the rigors of industrial use. Customization options, technical support, and long-term service are critical factors to consider.
Industry Regulations and Guidelines
Compliance with industry standards is not optional—it’s a legal and ethical responsibility. Key regulations to consider include:
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 – 2014 Standard: Specifies the performance and location requirements for emergency eye wash and shower equipment. It mandates flow rates, activation times, and maintenance practices.
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151(c): Requires facilities where employees may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials to provide suitable emergency showers and eye wash facilities.
Local and International Standards: Depending on your location and industry, you may also need to comply with regional codes such as EN 15154 (Europe) or other global standards.
Regular inspections, testing, and maintenance are essential to ensure ongoing compliance and equipment readiness. B-L-S Industries, Inc. can help you understand these requirements and ensure your safety systems are properly implemented.
Partner with B-L-S Industries, Inc. for Your Industrial Shower Needs
At B-L-S Industries, Inc., we understand that in hazardous environments, every second counts. That’s why we’ve been dedicated to providing top-quality emergency drench showers, eye and face wash stations, and custom safety solutions since 1976. Located in Carl Junction, MO, we take pride in serving industries across the nation with products that meet the highest standards of safety and reliability.
Whether you need a standard eye wash station, a heated industrial shower enclosure, or a completely custom safety unit tailored to your facility, B-L-S Industries, Inc. has the expertise and product range to help you protect your workforce. Our mission is to ensure that your employees are safe and your operations remain compliant, no matter how challenging the environment.
Don’t wait for an emergency to expose the gaps in your safety systems. Contact us today to discuss your industrial shower and emergency equipment needs. Let us help you build a safer, more resilient workplace—because when it comes to safety, you deserve nothing less than the best.
Proper safety measures cannot be overstated in industrial environments where workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals, extreme heat, or airborne contaminants. One of the most critical elements in ensuring workplace safety is having effective emergency shower equipment in place. These systems are designed to provide immediate decontamination, minimize injury, and potentially save lives.
What Equipment is Needed for an Emergency Shower?
Industrial facilities must be equipped with specific safety equipment that can quickly and efficiently wash away hazardous substances from the body and eyes. The goal is to minimize damage and increase the likelihood of recovery in the event of exposure.
Essential Components of an Emergency Shower
While the specific configuration may vary depending on your facility’s risks and layout, every emergency shower station should include the following core elements:
Emergency Drench Shower: A full-body shower capable of delivering a high flow of tepid water for at least 15 minutes. These units are often floor-mounted or wall-mounted and should be easy to activate in one step.
Eye and Face Wash Stations: Designed to flush hazardous substances from the eyes and face, these units provide a gentle stream of water and should allow hands-free operation once activated.
Combination Units: These systems include both a full-body drench shower and an eye/face wash station, offering comprehensive decontamination options in one location.
Heated Shower Enclosures: In colder climates, water temperature is a concern. Heated enclosures prevent freezing and ensure that water remains in the ANSI-specified “tepid” range (60°F to 100°F).
Flow Regulators and Valves: Ensure the correct water pressure and distribution across all outlets. Quick-opening valves allow water flow in less than one second and remain open without the user needing to hold it.
Drainage Systems: Emergency showers discharge large amounts of water rapidly. Proper drainage prevents secondary hazards like slipping or flooding.
Alarm and Monitoring Systems: Alarms or signal beacons can alert supervisors when a shower is activated. Monitoring systems track usage for maintenance and compliance documentation.
These components must be durable, corrosion-resistant, and capable of performing reliably in various industrial conditions. Stainless steel and galvanized steel are popular materials used in high-quality systems like those offered by B-L-S Industries, Inc.
Ensuring Compliance with OSHA and ANSI Standards
Installing emergency shower equipment is not just a best practice—it’s a legal requirement for many facilities. Compliance ensures the health of workers and protects companies from fines or liability.
OSHA Requirements
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces general guidelines under standard 29 CFR 1910.151(c), which states:
“Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.”
Though OSHA does not prescribe exact equipment specifications, it defers to ANSI standards to determine what qualifies as “suitable facilities.”
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 Standard
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) developed Z358.1-2014, the definitive guideline for emergency eyewash and shower equipment. Key requirements include:
Location: Units must be within a 10-second reach (~55 feet) of potential hazards, unobstructed, and on the same level.
Water Temperature: Must deliver tepid water (60–100°F). Heated units or tempering valves may be required.
Water Flow: Drench showers should deliver at least 20 gallons per minute (GPM) for 15 minutes; eyewash stations should deliver 0.4 GPM minimum.
Activation: Equipment must activate in one second or less and remain operational without the user needing to hold a valve open.
Signage: Clear, visible signs must mark the equipment, and the area should be well lit.
Testing: Weekly activation tests and annual performance evaluations are mandatory.
Common Compliance Mistakes
Failure to meet compliance standards can jeopardize worker safety and lead to penalties. Some of the most frequent issues include:
Blocked access to units due to stored materials or clutter.
Inadequate water temperature, especially in unheated environments.
Insufficient water pressure or volume, rendering units ineffective.
Lack of regular testing, leading to non-functional valves or nozzles.
Improper placement, such as units being too far from the hazard or located upstairs/downstairs.
Routine inspections and partnering with a trusted manufacturer like B-L-S Industries, Inc. help eliminate these problems before they lead to serious consequences.
Upgrading Emergency Shower Systems
As technology evolves and regulations are updated, facilities must also modernize their safety infrastructure to stay ahead of hazards and remain compliant. Upgrading emergency shower equipment isn’t just about replacing old hardware—it’s about enhancing the overall emergency response strategy.
How to Optimize Water Flow & Pressure
Optimal water flow is critical for effective decontamination. Inadequate pressure may result in insufficient rinsing, increasing the risk of chemical burns or prolonged exposure.
To optimize performance:
Install Pressure Regulators: These maintain a consistent and safe pressure level across showers and eyewash units.
Use Flow Restrictors and Laminar Flow Nozzles: These improve coverage and comfort while preventing splashing.
Check Water Supply Lines: Ensure that pipes are properly sized and free of obstructions. Undersized lines may not deliver the required GPM.
Integrate Booster Pumps: Facilities with low municipal pressure can benefit from pumps that ensure ANSI compliance.
Modern systems often include built-in sensors to monitor flow rate and usage, allowing for predictive maintenance and real-time alerts.
Benefits of Heated Shower Enclosures
In colder environments or outdoor installations, unheated units may become unusable due to freezing water lines. Heated emergency shower enclosures solve this problem by maintaining a tepid water supply and protecting both equipment and users from cold-related stress.
Advantages include:
Guaranteed usability year-round
ANSI-compliant water temperature delivery
Employee comfort, reducing shock or hypothermia risks
Prevention of frozen pipes and cracked fittings
B-L-S Industries, Inc. offers heated enclosures specifically designed for harsh environments, ensuring uninterrupted safety coverage.
Smart Monitoring & IoT Integration
For advanced facilities, integrating Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities can provide:
Usage logs for safety audits
Maintenance reminders
Alerts when units are triggered
Water quality monitoring
These features not only support compliance efforts but also demonstrate a company’s commitment to cutting-edge safety protocols.
Why Choose B-L-S Industries, Inc.?
Since 1976, B-L-S Industries, Inc. has been at the forefront of emergency shower equipment innovation and manufacturing. Based in Carl Junction, Missouri, we understand the needs of American industries and have built our reputation on quality, reliability, and compliance.
What Sets Us Apart?
Unmatched Experience: Over four decades of hands-on expertise in safety systems.
Diverse Product Range: From basic eyewash units to fully customized, climate-controlled shower stations.
Engineering-Grade Design: Built to endure the toughest industrial environments.
Compliance-Ready Systems: All equipment meets or exceeds ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 standards.
Customization Services: Tailored solutions for facilities with unique spatial or hazard considerations.
Local Support: Prompt customer service and support from our U.S.-based team.
Whether you’re retrofitting an aging system or designing a new facility, B-L-S Industries, Inc. has the equipment and engineering insight to meet your exact needs.
Final Thoughts
In hazardous environments, every second counts. When a worker is exposed to dangerous chemicals or contaminants, having reliable and properly installed emergency shower equipment can make all the difference. From full-body drench systems to combination eye and face wash units, the right setup is essential for effective emergency response.
Facilities must ensure that their systems function as intended and comply with OSHA and ANSI standards. Regular maintenance, strategic upgrades, and flow optimization all play critical roles in safety assurance.
Ready to Upgrade Your Emergency Shower Systems?
If you’re evaluating your facility’s safety infrastructure, don’t leave it to chance. At B-L-S Industries, Inc., we’re more than just a supplier—we’re your safety partner. From standard units to fully customized solutions, we provide top-tier emergency drench showers, eye wash stations, and heated enclosures that exceed compliance standards and deliver peace of mind.
In hazardous workplaces, where exposure to harmful chemicals, extreme temperatures, and dangerous substances is a daily reality, ensuring worker safety is paramount. One critical component of emergency preparedness is the availability of safety showers. However, not all safety showers offer the same level of protection. In environments where external conditions pose an additional risk, an enclosed safety shower provides a superior, controlled environment that ensures the well-being of affected employees. Let’s explore the vital role these units play in modern safety strategies.
What Makes Enclosed Safety Showers Different?
An enclosed safety shower goes beyond the basic design of a traditional safety shower. These units are built with protective structures that shield the user from environmental factors, maintaining a safe and comfortable environment during emergency decontamination. Key distinguishing features include:
Temperature Regulation: Many enclosed units feature insulation, heaters, and sometimes even air conditioning to prevent freezing in winter or overheating in summer. This ensures that the water remains within ANSI-recommended temperatures (60°F to 100°F).
Protection from Environmental Hazards: Wind, rain, snow, or sun can hamper the effectiveness of decontamination efforts in open areas. An enclosed safety shower provides a controlled space, which is critical when outdoor weather conditions are harsh.
Enhanced Privacy: Enclosures offer a degree of privacy, which can be crucial for workers suffering chemical exposure, minimizing additional trauma or embarrassment.
Durability and Customization: These showers, designed with rugged materials such as fiberglass, stainless steel, and corrosion-resistant coatings, can be tailored to meet specific workplace needs.
When to Choose an Enclosed Unit
Choosing an enclosed safety shower is highly recommended when:
The workplace is located outdoors or in a semi-open environment.
The region experiences extreme weather conditions (cold, heat, storms).
Chemical handling areas involve hazardous substances that require prolonged rinsing periods.
Compliance with specific industry standards demands temperature-controlled water delivery.
Investing in an enclosed unit reflects a proactive approach to worker safety and demonstrates a commitment to exceeding baseline standards.
Key Industries That Benefit from Enclosed Safety Showers
Enclosed safety showers are not limited to one sector; their application spans multiple industries where emergency decontamination is crucial.
Chemical Manufacturing and Processing: Facilities where hazardous chemicals are stored or handled require instant access to emergency decontamination, often outdoors, where enclosed showers shield against external elements.
Oil and Gas: Remote locations, offshore rigs, and refineries frequently experience volatile weather. Enclosed safety showers ensure operational safety regardless of external conditions.
Pharmaceuticals: Handling potent compounds necessitates strict decontamination processes. Controlled environments help prevent cross-contamination and support sterile operations.
Mining Operations: Harsh, rugged, and often remote, mining sites depend on enclosed showers for emergency response, ensuring equipment remains operational even in freezing temperatures.
Food and Beverage Manufacturing: Though not immediately hazardous in appearance, this sector often uses strong cleaning agents and chemicals, making enclosed units valuable to prevent chemical injuries.
Wastewater Treatment Plants: Workers encounter a variety of biological and chemical hazards. Having an enclosed safety shower ensures rapid decontamination regardless of weather or exposure scenario.
How to Ensure Proper Functionality
To guarantee optimal performance, facilities must:
Regularly inspect all components for wear, corrosion, and mechanical issues.
Test water temperature and flow rates frequently.
Maintain enclosure integrity, ensuring seals, insulation, and heating systems are operational.
Train employees in proper usage and emergency response procedures.
Schedule professional servicing to validate system compliance with ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 standards.
Installation and Maintenance Guidelines
Selecting and installing an enclosed safety shower is a deliberate process requiring attention to numerous factors to ensure maximum efficiency and compliance.
Site Selection: Identify high-risk zones where chemical exposure is likely. As per ANSI guidelines, position the shower within 10 seconds (approximately 55 feet) of hazard zones.
Plumbing and Water Supply: Ensure a reliable water supply capable of maintaining the necessary pressure and flow rate. Consider insulated pipes to prevent freezing.
Drainage Solutions: Adequate drainage must be in place to prevent water accumulation, particularly in enclosed units, to maintain safe walking surfaces.
Electrical Requirements: If the unit is heated or powered, ensure compliant electrical connections with appropriate explosion-proof ratings where necessary.
Signage and Accessibility: Install clear signage, keep pathways unobstructed, and ensure ADA compliance where necessary.
Compliance with Safety Regulations
Ensuring that your enclosed safety shower complies with applicable regulations is non-negotiable.
ANSI/ISEA Z358.1: This standard specifies the design, installation, performance, and use requirements for emergency eyewash and shower equipment.
OSHA Requirements: OSHA mandates ready access to emergency wash stations in workplaces where employees may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials (29 CFR 1910.151(c)).
Local and International Codes: Depending on your region, additional standards may apply, such as EN 15154 in Europe.
Compliance audits should be scheduled regularly, and any updates to safety standards must trigger a review of existing equipment.
Partner with B-L-S Industries, Inc. for Your Safety Needs
Creating a safe working environment in hazardous industries requires more than good intentions—it demands the best equipment available. An enclosed safety shower is an essential investment for facilities seeking to protect their employees from chemical exposures and environmental risks while maintaining compliance with rigorous industry standards.
At B-L-S Industries, Inc., we have been committed to providing top-quality emergency drench showers and eye and face wash stations since 1976. Proudly based in Carl Junction, MO, we understand the unique demands of hazardous workplaces because we’ve been serving them for over four decades.
Whether you require a standard eyewash station, a fully customized emergency shower, or a heated enclosure that ensures functionality through the harshest winters, our expert team has the experience and knowledge to deliver. Our mission is simple: to offer reliable, compliant, and durable safety solutions that ensure your employees are protected when emergencies happen.
Don’t leave your workplace safety to chance. Partner with B-L-S Industries, Inc. today and discover how our innovative safety solutions can help you meet your operational and compliance goals. Contact us today to learn more or request a custom quote!
In hazardous work environments, time is of the essence when an emergency strikes. Whether it’s a chemical splash, exposure to a corrosive substance, or thermal burns, a quick and effective response can mean the difference between a full recovery and permanent damage. This is where the safety shower becomes an essential part of any facility’s emergency preparedness plan.
At B-L-S Industries, Inc., we’ve spent nearly 50 years designing and supplying industrial-grade emergency drench showers and eye wash stations for companies across the U.S. From our headquarters in Carl Junction, MO, we understand the unique safety needs of businesses working with hazardous materials.
What is a Safety Shower?
A safety shower is an emergency fixture designed to flush the body with copious amounts of water in the event of exposure to harmful chemicals, substances, or high heat. These showers are typically found in industrial facilities, laboratories, manufacturing plants, and other high-risk environments. They are not designed for personal hygiene but rather to deliver immediate decontamination to limit injury.
Most safety showers are activated by a pull handle or push plate and must release a high flow of water instantly to be effective. In many cases, safety showers are paired with eye and face wash stations to ensure that sensitive areas such as the eyes are protected as well.
When Are Safety Showers Required?
OSHA regulations and ANSI standards dictate that safety showers are necessary in any workplace where employees are at risk of being exposed to:
Corrosive chemicals
Flammable or toxic substances
Particulates that can cause skin irritation
Thermal injuries or extreme heat
These units must be readily accessible within 10 seconds of potential exposure and must be able to operate hands-free for a full 15-minute rinse.
Key Safety Standards for Safety Showers
Ensuring compliance with key regulations is critical to both safety and liability. The most widely recognized standard for safety showers and eyewash stations is ANSI/ISEA Z358.1.
ANSI Standards Explained
The ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 standard outlines the minimum performance and installation requirements for safety showers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key specifications:
Location & Accessibility: The safety shower must be within 10 seconds of the hazard area and have an unobstructed path for access.
Flow Rate: The shower must deliver a minimum of 20 gallons per minute (GPM) for at least 15 minutes.
Water Temperature: To prevent thermal shock or hypothermia, tepid water, defined as between 60°F and 100°F, is required.
Activation: Must be easily activated within one second and remain on without the user holding the handle.
Testing Requirements: Weekly functional testing and annual performance testing are required to ensure continued compliance.
Facilities that fail to comply with ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 may face fines, injuries, and potential legal action. More importantly, non-compliance can seriously risk employee health.
Choosing the Right Safety Shower
With so many options available, selecting the appropriate safety shower for your facility involves more than just meeting the minimum standard. Factors like environmental conditions, the nature of hazards, and user comfort should be taken into account.
Let’s examine the different types of safety showers and the criteria for selecting the right one.
1. Indoor vs. Outdoor Showers
Indoor Showers: Common in laboratories and indoor manufacturing plants. These are easier to install and often benefit from existing climate control.
Outdoor Showers: Require weather protection. Heated enclosures or freeze-protected units are critical in colder climates to maintain tepid water and prevent freezing.
2. Plumbed vs. Self-Contained Showers
Plumbed Units: Connected directly to the facility’s water supply. Reliable and continuous water flow but requires proximity to plumbing infrastructure.
Self-Contained Units: Use a tank to store water. Ideal for remote or temporary job sites. These need to be regularly refilled and inspected.
3. Combination Units
Many workplaces opt for combination units that include both a full-body shower and an eye/face wash station. These provide comprehensive coverage in one installation, especially valuable in areas with multiple potential hazards.
4. Specialty Showers
Some environments require more specific equipment:
Corrosive Material Showers: Resistant materials like stainless steel or coated parts are crucial.
Heated Enclosures: Maintain tepid water even in freezing conditions.
Portable Units: For temporary job sites, mobile labs, or field work.
5. Flow Control and Drainage
Don’t overlook drainage and water management. A high-capacity emergency shower can release over 300 gallons in 15 minutes. Proper drainage systems are necessary to prevent flooding and slip hazards.
How to Maintain a Safety Shower
Even the best-designed safety shower won’t protect workers if it’s not properly maintained. Routine maintenance ensures readiness and compliance with safety regulations.
Weekly Checks Should Include:
Flushing the unit to remove sediment buildup
Ensuring water flow activates within 1 second
Checking for obstructions and proper signage
Annual Inspections Should Include:
Verifying flow rates and spray patterns
Temperature testing for tepid water compliance
Inspection of valves, pipes, and structural integrity
A maintenance log should be kept to document inspections, identify trends, and provide evidence of compliance if needed.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues that can affect the performance of a safety shower—and what to do about them:
Problem: Inadequate Water Flow
Cause: Blocked or corroded pipes or poor water pressure
Solution: Flush lines weekly; check for buildup and repair or replace faulty components.
Problem: Water Too Cold or Too Hot
Cause: Lack of tempering valve or malfunctioning heater
Solution: Install a thermostatic mixing valve; insulate or heat pipes in cold climates.
Problem: Inaccessible Shower
Cause: Poor placement or obstructed path
Solution: Re-evaluate shower location; ensure it’s clearly marked, unobstructed, and within 10 seconds of hazard zones.
Problem: Eye Wash Nozzles Clogged
Cause: Debris or mineral buildup
Solution: Use protective covers on nozzles; include nozzle cleaning in weekly tests.
Regular training for employees is also key. Staff should know:
Where each safety shower is located
How to operate it correctly
When to use it
Partnering with a Trusted Safety Shower Provider
When it comes to workplace safety, your equipment is only as reliable as the company behind it. That’s why industries across the country trust B-L-S Industries, Inc. for their emergency shower and eye wash solutions.
Since 1976, we’ve been designing, engineering, and manufacturing top-quality safety showers, eye wash stations, and drench equipment right here in Carl Junction, Missouri. Our team understands the technical and regulatory demands that come with hazardous environments—from chemical plants and industrial labs to mining and food processing.
Whether you need a:
Standard ANSI-compliant safety shower
Customized solution for unique applications
Freeze-protected or heated enclosure
Combination shower/eye wash unit
—we’ve got you covered.
Our products are built for durability, simplicity, and maximum compliance. But beyond that, we offer something that’s harder to find: a knowledgeable team that truly cares about your safety. We consult with clients to understand their work environments, regulatory requirements, and infrastructure challenges so we can recommend the right system the first time.
Ready to Upgrade Your Workplace Safety?
If your facility handles chemicals, corrosives, or thermal processes, having the right safety shower solution in place isn’t just a regulatory box to check—it’s a critical part of your emergency response plan. Choosing the right equipment, installing it correctly, and keeping it in top shape can protect your employees and your business from devastating injuries and costly penalties.
B-L-S Industries, Inc. is here to help every step of the way. From standard eye wash stations to custom-engineered drench solutions and fully enclosed heated systems, we provide safety products that are built to last, made to comply, and designed to perform when seconds count. Contact us today.
