OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionEasy
A construction worker is unexpectedly splashed in the eyes with a hazardous chemical. According to the Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), what is the most immediate and critical step the worker should take?
- ASeek medical attention after cleaning up the spill.
- BConsult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for first aid instructions.
- CNotify their supervisor of the incident.
- DImmediately flush the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Immediately flush the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
Immediate flushing of the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes is the most critical first aid step for chemical eye splashes, as per HazCom and general safety protocols. Delaying this can lead to severe and irreversible injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Seeking medical attention is necessary, but only after immediate first aid has been administered.
- B. Consulting the SDS is important but not the immediate first action for an eye splash.
- C. Notifying a supervisor is important, but secondary to immediate first aid.
Chemical Eye Splash First Aid
For chemical splashes to the eyes, the immediate and critical first aid response is to continuously flush the eyes with water for at least 15 minutes to dilute and remove the chemical.
- Immediate action is crucial.
- Flush with water for a minimum of 15 minutes.
- Seek medical attention after flushing.
Memory trick: Splash in the eye? Flush right away!