Eye Wash

Eyewash: A First Aid Measure for the Eye

An eye bath is a first aid measure that is always used when foreign bodies or chemicals come in contact with the eye. Therefore, eye baths, eye wash bottles e.g., with saline solution, or eye wash stations are found in all areas, where the eye is at risk of coming in contact with dangerous substances in order to wash the eye as quickly as possible. 

Eyewash solution is sterile so as to prevent bacteria or viruses from entering the eye via the rinsing solution, e.g., saline solution or buffer solution. Eyewash bottles are available in different volumes (e.g., 250 ml or 500 ml) and some are fitted with a special applicator, which ensures that the solution can be directed to the eye. The cleansing time is indicated by the manufacturer and respective product. After opening the bottle, the solution may only be used once. This prevents germs from getting into the solution and contaminating the next user.

As a rule, emergency eyewash solutions can be applied by the injured person as well as by a colleague, medical officer or paramedic. Since the eyes are very sensitive and should be washed as quickly as possible, each emergency eyewash station is equipped with an illustrated guide to aid the concerned person in performing the eye irrigation procedure without help.

Eye Wash Solution: Saline or Buffer?

Different types of emergency eye washes are used, depending on whether the purpose is for flushing out chemicals or removing particles from the eye. For example, the 0.9 % sodium chloride solution that we stock is excellent for removing irritants like dust, dirt or splinters from the eye, as the natural sodium content of the saline solution matches that of the eye. However, the sodium chloride solution is not suited for rinsing out acids or alkalis. Instead, the affected person may use so-called buffer solutions that bind and neutralise the chemical splashes.

Depending on which substances are being worked with, workplaces should have an appropriate eyewash station. In order to provide quick access to the eyewash solution, these stations should be placed in a central location and indicated with a safety sign, if possible. 

Eye Wash Solutions & Accessories

In our online shop, we stock a selection of affordable sterile eyewashes from Plum and Söhngen - from eyewash bottles with 250 ml or 500 ml, up to eyewash stations with the required materials for mounting the stations on a wall.

Do you have questions about our eyewash or eyewash stations or other first aid equipment? Our customer service will be happy to help via telephone, e-mail or live chat.