Safety Knights

OSHA doesn't set any maintenance requirements - only that they're required when working with "injurious" corrosive chemicals. The standard to reference is ANSI Z358.1, which just says that it has to be within 10 walking seconds of the hazard (~55 feet). The only clearance distance it mentions is that the eyewash station must be at least 6 inches from the wall or closest obstruction. Aside from that, the path of travel to it must be free of obstructions (e.g., doors, stairs, etc.) that may inhibit its immediate use.

Drew answered correctly as far as regulatory references. In light of that, I've always borrowed the 36" rule. More is certainly better. You have to able to safely and comfortable stand in front of the thing, right?

I don't have a reference, but I've always done 36" on sides and front. That's our practice for all first aid cabinets and eye wash stations.

I was about the drop the same answer Drew did about ANSI Z358.1 but he beat me to the punch haha

As usual Drew is RIGHT ON! However, I tell my customers and employees I am training, "Imagine you are alone. You just got a lot of acid in both eyes! You are now blind. You pray it is temporary, but know in large part it maybe permanent if you do not get to the closest eye wash station QUICKLY! So before you set something down in front or around an eye wash station, or allow someone else to do the same, put yourself in those shoes!" As I said Drew is spot on, on the regs and guidance. My example is real world and puts things in perspective.

Great Information. I will use this in the new facility we are building where there is a potential hazard of chemical splashing