Lab Safety Showers & Eyewash Stations

Confirm Local Requirements Before You Finalize the Fixture

Emergency fixture requirements are applied through local building and plumbing rules, workplace safety review, and the project’s adopted standards. The same fixture can require different plumbing accessories or placement changes from one jurisdiction to another. Resolve these questions before the walls, ceilings, and utility rough-ins are closed.

Who should confirm each decision?

1. 1
   Start with the hazard assessment EHS or the lab safety lead should identify where corrosive or otherwise injurious materials will be used, transferred, and stored. The assessment should define which work areas need eyewash coverage, a full shower, or both.
2. 2
   Confirm placement with the reviewing authority Ask the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to confirm the adopted requirements and how it interprets the route from each hazard to the emergency fixture. An architect or engineer can document the location on the plans. Keep doors, level changes, equipment, and future casework in mind because they may affect access.
3. 3
   Confirm the plumbing assembly The plumbing engineer or licensed plumber should verify supply piping, drainage or containment, backflow protection, and any required thermostatic mixing valve. Local officials may also require review during permitting or inspection.
4. 4
   Coordinate before purchasing Labs USA can help select fixtures and coordinate them with the lab layout, but the AHJ and project professionals approve code compliance. Use a free laboratory floor plan review to identify layout conflicts before equipment is ordered.

Questions that often change the scope

• Does the selected location provide an acceptable path from every identified hazard? Check doors, turns, aisles, elevation changes, and equipment that could obstruct travel.
• Will the available hot and cold water supply support the selected fixture and the project’s required water conditions? Many installations use a thermostatic mixing valve, but valve selection, capacity, location, and piping depend on the fixture and building system.
• Does the project require a vacuum breaker or another backflow-prevention device? This often comes up with laboratory faucets, hose outlets, and deck-mounted eyewash products. The required device and installation method vary by product and local plumbing rules. Review available laboratory faucets, then have the plumbing engineer or AHJ confirm the final assembly.
• Where will discharged water go during activation and testing? Confirm whether the room needs a drain, containment, waterproof finishes, or another approved approach. Do not assume an existing floor drain is suitable.
• Is this a retrofit? Verify pipe access, wall construction, ceiling space, shutoff locations, and whether finished surfaces can be opened. The lab renovation checklist can help surface related site constraints.
• Are accessible controls and clear floor space required for this location? Have the architect and AHJ review mounting heights, approach, reach, and surrounding clearance.

What to send Labs USA

Send the project address, floor plan, hazard locations, room elevations, fixture schedule, plumbing drawings, and photos of the proposed installation area. Include the chemicals or processes involved, available water connections, water temperatures if known, drainage plan, faucet types, and any notes from EHS, the engineer, plumber, or AHJ. For an existing facility, also include photos above the ceiling and behind accessible panels when available. These details help us match the fixture and accessories to the approved design without guessing at local requirements.

Send those details through our contact form or call (801) 855-8560, and a Labs USA specialist will review them with you.

Common Questions