Testing frequency for laboratory safety showers

June 21, 1995

Carolyn S. Langer
Director of Occupational Health
and Safety Services
ML Strategies
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Ms. Langer:

This is in response to your letter of May 3, in which you asked for clarification regarding the frequency with which showers must be tested.

The routine inspections of showers mentioned in Appendix A of Section 1910.1450 is not a mandatory requirement for which OSHA would normally issue a citation. Although the term "routine" does not indicate a specific frequency, it does mean that the inspections should be performed at regular intervals which are determined by someone familiar with the equipment and the work environment. The inspections are to be frequent enough to assure that the showers are in good working order when needed. This is recommended as a sound practice which is based on a consensus of the Committee on Hazardous Chemicals in the Laboratory, a select committee of the National Research Council. You will note that the report of this committee is cited (169) in the portion of the Standard to which you referred in your letter (see enclosure), 29 CFR 1910.1450, Appendix A, D. 4. (c). You will also note that the passage that you question came directly from the Committee Report.

If we can be of further assistance, please contact [the Office of Health Compliance Assistance at (202) 693-2190].

Sincerely,

Raymond E. Donnelly, Director
Office of General Industry Compliance Assistance

Enclosure

[Requester letter reproduced on OSHA page; omitted here.]