What immediate response should be taken if someone has been exposed to a chemical spill in their eyes?

If someone has been exposed to a chemical spill in their eyes, the immediate and most effective response is to wash their eyes with large amounts of clean water. This action helps to dilute and remove the chemical substance from the ocular surface, which is crucial to minimize further irritation or damage to the eye tissues.

The importance of using clean water cannot be understated; it facilitates a thorough flush of the eyes and helps to reduce the concentration of the chemical that may cause harm. The goal is to initiate this flushing process as quickly as possible, ideally within the first few minutes after exposure. The process should continue for at least 15 minutes, ensuring that the water effectively cleanses the eyes.

Other responses, such as applying a clean dressing or administering eye drops, could potentially worsen the situation by trapping the chemical within the eye or causing further irritation. Meanwhile, while calling emergency services is essential if the injury is severe, immediate action to wash the eyes must take precedence to protect the vision and overall eye health.