If acid splashes into your eyes, what is the first action you should take?

In the event of an acid splash to the eyes, the most critical immediate action is to flush the eyes with water. The purpose of this is to dilute and remove the acid, thereby minimizing damage to the eye tissue.

Flushing the eyes for a minimum of 15 minutes is the recommended duration by safety protocols. This timeframe is essential because it allows enough time to thoroughly wash away the acid, reducing the risk of severe injury or long-term damage. The recommendation is based on medical guidelines that state prolonged irrigation is more effective in preventing damage from chemical burns.

In contrast, shorter flushing durations, such as 5 or 10 minutes, may not be sufficient to fully cleanse the eyes of the corrosive substance, leaving the eye at risk of continuing damage. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the guideline of flushing for a minimum of 15 minutes to ensure comprehensive care following an acid exposure incident.