9
Sep
Laboratory Emergency Equipment: Eyewash Stations, Safety Showers, and Fire Protection in Australian Labs
Emergencies in the laboratory can happen without warning — from chemical splashes to fires. Preparedness is key, and having the right emergency equipment ensures fast, effective response that protects staff and reduces risk. For Australian schools, research institutes, and industrial facilities, eyewash stations, safety showers, and fire protection equipment are not optional extras — they are compliance requirements under AS/NZS 2243 standards. At LabChoice Australia, we provide certified emergency safety equipment designed to safeguard laboratories and meet strict Australian guidelines.
Eyewash Stations
Eyewash stations provide immediate flushing for eyes exposed to hazardous substances.
- Plumbed units: Deliver continuous water flow for thorough decontamination.
- Portable units: Ideal for schools or smaller labs without plumbed facilities.
- Compliance: Must meet AS/NZS 4775 standards for performance and installation.
Safety Showers
Safety showers are essential where chemicals pose risks of skin or clothing contamination.
- Full-body drenching: Rapidly reduces severity of burns and chemical exposure.
- Activation: Hands-free levers allow quick use during emergencies.
- Inspection: Regular testing (weekly or monthly) ensures compliance and functionality.
Fire Protection Equipment
Laboratories carry a unique fire risk due to the presence of flammable chemicals and electrical equipment.
- Fire extinguishers: Class B and C extinguishers are most common for labs.
- Fire blankets: Quick containment for small fires or to wrap around personnel.
- Storage cabinets: Segregate flammable liquids to reduce ignition risks.
LabChoice provides fire protection solutions that are AS/NZS certified, helping Australian labs meet both legal and insurance requirements.
Comparison: Basic vs LabChoice Emergency Equipment
| Emergency Category | Basic Setup (Minimal) | LabChoice Recommended Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Eyewash | Small squeeze bottles | Plumbed or portable AS/NZS 4775 stations |
| Safety Showers | None or partial access | Certified full-body emergency showers |
| Fire Safety | Basic extinguisher only | Extinguisher + blanket + storage cabinets |
| Inspection | Irregular checks | Scheduled inspections and certification |
| Compliance | Partial or outdated | Full AS/NZS 2243 & 4775 compliance |
This comparison shows how LabChoice emergency equipment provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring safety and full compliance.
FAQs
Q1: Are eyewash stations mandatory in all Australian labs?
Yes. Any laboratory working with hazardous chemicals must provide eyewash stations compliant with AS/NZS 4775.
Q2: How often should emergency equipment be inspected?
Eyewash stations and showers should be tested weekly or monthly, with annual certification checks.
Q3: Do fire extinguishers need to be lab-specific?
Yes. Laboratories require Class B and C extinguishers, suited for flammable liquids and electrical equipment.
Q4: Can LabChoice supply emergency setups for schools?
Yes. LabChoice provides portable eyewash units, compact showers, and fire blankets tailored to schools and teaching labs.
Refined References
- Safe Work Australia – Laboratory Safety Equipment Requirements. Safe Work Australia
- AS/NZS 2243: Safety in Laboratories. SAI Global
- AS/NZS 4775: Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment. Standards Australia
- CSIRO – Laboratory Emergency Preparedness. CSIRO
