How long should you flush your eyes if pesticide enters them?

The recommended duration for flushing the eyes after exposure to pesticides is typically at least 15 minutes. This guideline is based on the need to thoroughly remove the chemical from the eyes to minimize damage and discomfort. Flushing with clean, running water helps dilute and wash away the pesticide, reducing the risk of irritation or injury to the sensitive tissues of the eyes.

While shorter durations, such as 5 or 10 minutes, may help to some extent, they may not be sufficient to completely clear the pesticide, especially in cases of more concentrated formulations. The instruction to flush for as long as possible until help arrives highlights the importance of not only initiating decontamination but also ensuring that it continues until professional medical assistance can take over. Therefore, aiming for a minimum of 15 minutes is crucial to maximize safety and health outcomes in such emergency situations.