Pressure Washer

GENERAL GUIDANCE PROCEDURES:-
RISK ASSESSEMENT

Contact with high pressure water and chemicals, biological hazards, flying debris, manual handling risks, slips, trips and falls over balancing due to the reaction of the jet.
Environmental risks, water contamination, chemical spills, unfamiliarly with he equipment.

DAILY CHECK FOR DIESEL POWERED PRESSURE WASHERS

Fuel and lubricant levels checked and topped up
Guards fitted and secure
Engine checked for fuel and oil leaks
No leaks in pressure hoses and accessories
Hose free from kinks and casing damage

BEFORE USING A PRESSURE WASHER

If possible create an exclusion zone around the work area
Machine should be on firm level ground and secured
Electrical equipment including leads, sockets, transformers should be protected from over spray
Correct P.P.E should be worn to protect the operator

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT THAT SHOULD BE WORN BY THE OPERATOR

Safety helmet with visor
Water resistance overhauls
Water resistant gloves
Wellingtons on knee length boots

BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS THAT MAY BE PRESENT IN THE WATER

Weils disease (leptospirosis) hepatitis, salmonella, E-coli and parasites.
Precautions to be taken to avoid these hazards:-

Wear the correct P.P.E including respiratory mask
Basic health and hygiene precautions i.e. barrier creams, protection of cuts, regular washing of hands after works and eating, drinking and smoking
Contaminated P.P.E should be cleaned and dried thoroughly before re-use

NEVER OPERATE A POWER WASHER WHILST STANDING ON A LADDER!

AFTER USING THE PRESSURE WASHER

Switch of power supply
Release any pressure remaining in the hoses
Disconnect water supply
In winter conditions remove all remaining water to prevent freeze up