Safe Operation of Pressure Washers

Key Hazards

• High-pressure water injection injuries
• Flying debris from sprayed surfaces
• Slips and falls from wet surfaces, algae, or overspray
• Electric shock from cords, outlets, or wet equipment
• Chemical exposure from detergents or cleaning agents
• Hose whip, leaks, or sudden pressure release

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Pressure washers can clean quickly, but the water stream can injure skin, damage surfaces, and turn debris into projectiles. High-pressure water should never be treated like a normal hose.

Workers should inspect the pressure washer, hoses, trigger gun, wand, nozzles, fittings, cords, and fuel system before use. Damaged parts should be repaired or removed from service.

The spray should never be pointed at a person or body part. High-pressure water can cause injection injuries that may look minor at first but require immediate medical attention.

The work area should be checked for loose debris, fragile surfaces, nearby workers, electrical equipment, traffic, and areas where overspray could create hazards.

Wet surfaces can become slippery quickly. Workers should watch footing, avoid backing up blindly, and use caution around algae, soap, mud, stairs, ladders, and slopes.

Electrical safety is important. Electric units, extension cords, outlets, and nearby equipment should be protected from water exposure and used with required electrical protection.

Chemicals or detergents should be used according to the label and safety data sheet. Workers may need gloves, eye protection, face protection, or respiratory protection depending on the product and spray conditions.

Safe pressure washing depends on controlling the stream, the hose, the surface, and the people nearby. Start with inspection, keep the spray away from the body, and shut down safely before changing nozzles or clearing problems.

Safety Reminders

• Inspect hoses, wand, trigger, nozzles, fittings, and cords before use.
• Never point the spray at yourself or another person.
• Wear eye, foot, hand, and hearing protection as needed.
• Watch for slippery surfaces and overspray.
• Keep electrical equipment protected from water.
• Use chemicals only according to label instructions.
• Release pressure before changing nozzles or servicing equipment.

Ask the Crew

• Is the pressure washer and hose system in safe condition?
• Could the spray hit people, vehicles, windows, or electrical equipment?
• What surfaces will become slippery during the work?
• Are chemicals being used, and what PPE is required?
• Has pressure been released before adjustments or nozzle changes?