Corrosion-free emergency showers - standing the test of time

Citation

(2007), "Corrosion-free emergency showers - standing the test of time", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 54 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2007.12854fab.005

Corrosion-free emergency showers - standing the test of time

Corrosion-free emergency showers – standing the test of time

Harsh environments are frequently the most hazardous for those people working within them, and issues of safety are paramount. But severe conditions can often compromise the operation of health and safety equipment, presenting enormous challenges particularly where maintenance can be difficult and expensive.

In many industries, the most efficient emergency facilities are decontamination shower units.

It is vital for a shower unit to work first time every time, but situations such as extreme climates or salty marine atmospheres can all cause corrosion. Given that a shower may stand unused for a considerable amount of time, the process of making certain that it will work when needed begins at the design stage. It is also vital for equipment to meet both the efficiency agenda and health and safety regulations, including ANSI and DIN standards

Allen Yates, Managing Director of Showers and Eyebath Services, explains: “Corrosion-resistant safety showers manufactured from GRP and 316 stainless steel, with ABS internal pipe work, are far more effective than traditional powder coated galvanised units, and guarantee superior strength and longevity for installation in any environment.”

“Maintenance costs on older types of showers can be high, and even higher if they are corroded beyond repair and need replacing. But, it's not just the units – the fitting to existing pipework can also be expensive. However, showers can be tailored to site requirements or modified if necessary.”

“Recently, a major chemical company based in Runcorn had such a problem.”

“A number of free-standing units were installed to replace their corrosion-damaged equipment, but modified around their existing pipework. We tailored the units to fit the space exactly, which really helped to keep costs down ... and the new units are less expensive than the range they replaced, so excellent value all round.”

Figure 1 Free-standing corrosion-resistant safety shower

The Showers & Eyebaths GFSF units are all self draining to avoid the risk of freezing, or contamination with Legionella. Manufactured from corrosion resistant materials, they are also highly visible, with pipe-work protected by a robust, colour infused fibreglass jacket. If the jacket chips, it is coloured throughout, so there is no need for repainting. All units carry a five-year guarantee (Figure 1).

Contact: Showers & Eyebaths customer services on +44 (0)1744 889677