Drench Showers
Drench showers should be made available in any laboratory, school or industrial area where explosions or accidents of a chemical or similar nature are possible. A drench shower is part of your first aid and safety arsenal to help protect workers or students from serious harm.
Drench showers can come in a variety of sizes. Before purchasing, you need to determine how much room is available. If you need several showers (in situations where numerous workers could be in jeopardy simultaneously), then you need to plan your drench shower purchase accordingly. Drench showers are usually 3 feet by 3 feet. Larger units are also available.
Most drench showers are equipped with an automatic pedal action, so that as soon as the victim steps into the shower, the water is activated. Some other options and factors you may want to consider before purchasing are:
- alarmequipped models which activate an audible and/or visual alarm as soon as the shower is in use. This way, isolated workers, researchers, students, etc. can get help as soon as possible
- tempered water. If your workplace is in a remote area, you can add a heater to the unit; most manufacturers offer the option of tempering systems. Cold water may discourage victims from completely cleaning affected areas and it may also contribute to hypothermia, if you are in a cold area. The ANSI specifies tempered water for workplace drench showers.
- privacy considerations. Buy an enclosed unit or situate the shower in an area where victims can deal with their situation properly without having to worry about privacy.
In addition, you may wish to consider the materials used in building your drench shower. If you want to purchase a durable shower that will function for a long time, you may want to look at those constructed with stainless steel or more durable materials. You may also require the purchase of an insulated booth.
