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Posted By Bernard J. Hallinan
I am trying to answer the following question in relation to my upcoming exam.
"Outline the basic first-aid steps to be taken following chemical contamination of the eye".
All responses would be appreciated as, to-date, I have recieved a wide variety of answers from everybody to whom I have posed the question.
Many thanks in advance.
Bernard J. Hallinan, Co. Clare, Ireland
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Posted By Hilary Charlton
There is no easy answer to this, no hard and fast rule. I suppose the actual answer goes something like this ...
In the case of chemical contamination of the eye the first action will be to wash the eye out immediately with copious amounts of water. However, for longer term effects one must consider the individual effects of the chemical and for this one needs a material safety data sheet and COSHH assessment to hand at the point of usage of the chemical. Section ? of the MSDS outlines effects on the body of the chemical with eyes being a specific part and Section ? of the MSDS gives the First Aid measures to be employed in the event of contamination. Should the contaminee require medical aid then it is imperative that the MSDS be taken to the hospital/doctor with the employee to ensure that the doctor is fully appraised of the facts.
This is probably why you have had so many different answers to this question - it depends very much on the chemical.
Hilary
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Posted By Tony Overbury
Depends upon the chemical. But generally...
Wash eye with clean running water for 15 to 20 mins.
Ensure that contaminated water does not enter other eye/nose/mouth/other vulnerable part of body.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Just my opinion, but hope it helps.
Tony Overbury
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Posted By Dave Wilson
Look at the question,
OUTLINE / BASIC STEPS / FIRST AID / CHEMICAL
Be brief, simple facts, in order, and speak to St Johns Ambulance or a reputable first aid provider.
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Posted By Neil Pearson
There's bound to be a point just for mentioning that you should check for contact lenses. Also, be aware that eye wash bottles won't really do. Any MSDS says (as does an earlier reply) to rinse for 15 minutes. Your typical eye wash bottle lasts for about 15 seconds! Serile water is not that important when you've got conc. nitric acid in your eye!
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Posted By Bernard J. Hallinan
Thanks to all the respondants to my inquiry. Bernard
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Posted By Ken Taylor
I would suggest using the text from the St. John/St. Andrew/Red Cross First-Aid Manual and then referring to the specifics of MDSs, risk assessment-derived controls, existing emergency irrigation installations, etc. The First-Aid Manual should be a compulsory aquisition for all health and safety practitioners.
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