An eyewash, also called eyewash or emergency eyewash is

a safety device that is part of laboratory equipment, intended to protect a person's eyes after an accident in which contaminated materials or foreign substances may have penetrated.

An eyewash fountain or eyewash shower is a laboratory device capable of irrigating both eyes of a person with abundant water to achieve rapid and effective decontamination of splashes that could have affected the eyes.

It consists of two sprayers or nozzles, separated between 15 and 20 cm, which provide sufficient flow to wash the eyes or face and are activated by a foot (pedal) or elbow actuator.[2] The water is collected in a small basin with a drain.

Eyewash fountains are usually integrated with safety showers and located less than 10 seconds from the working position of an operator who carries out his work using substances or substances that entail a special risk. In any case, the water jet should be low pressure so as not to cause pain and it would be advisable for the water to be warm.

There are two main types of eyewashes: those that run on tap water and those that use a specialized solution. Normal sinks do not serve as eyewashes because the water does not have enough pressure to effectively clean the eyes. To use an eyewash, simply open your eyes and rinse them with water for a few minutes. If you are using a specialized solution, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Eyewashes are very effective at removing most hazardous substances, but if you are not sure what you have come into contact with, see a doctor or call 911.

An eyewash fluid, or system of eyewash fluids is a liquid, generally a saline solution, used as an emergency or safety mechanism in laboratories and industrial plants as an aid for rinsing the eyes, when a foreign substance, generally irritating, penetrates the eyes.

These eye drops may be beneficial for people with sensitive eyes and may provide relief from the side effects of painful sensitivity. However, prolonged use of these products will cause mild side effects, such as redness of the eyes and/or pupil and itching. If these symptoms occur, it is best to see your family doctor.