Sewer Cleaning and Jetting Safety

Key Hazards

• High-pressure water injection injuries
• Jetting hose movement, whip, or sudden release
• Exposure to sewage, aerosols, and biological hazards
• Traffic hazards around manholes and work vehicles
• Falls into open manholes or access structures
• Confined space or hazardous atmosphere exposure

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Sewer cleaning and jetting work combines high-pressure water, traffic exposure, open manholes, biological hazards, and confined space concerns. The work may be routine, but the hazards are serious.

High-pressure water can cut skin and cause injection injuries. Workers should never point jetting nozzles, hoses, or water streams at themselves or others, and should keep hands and body parts away from pressurized discharge.

Jetting hoses should be handled with control. Hoses can whip, jerk, or move suddenly when pressure changes, the nozzle hits an obstruction, or the hose is pulled through the line.

Open manholes and access structures must be protected. Covers, cones, barricades, fall protection, and traffic control may be needed to keep workers, pedestrians, and vehicles away from openings.

Traffic control is often a major part of sewer cleaning. Crews may work in streets, alleys, intersections, parking lots, or shoulders where drivers may not expect workers or equipment.

Sewage exposure should be controlled with appropriate PPE and hygiene. Gloves, eye protection, face protection, protective clothing, boots, and handwashing help reduce exposure to biological hazards and aerosols.

Atmospheric hazards should be considered around manholes and sewer structures. Testing, ventilation, confined space procedures, attendants, and rescue planning may be required if entry or exposure conditions warrant it.

Safe sewer jetting depends on pressure control, hose awareness, traffic protection, and hygiene. Communicate before pressurizing, keep people clear, and stop if hose movement or site conditions become unsafe.

Safety Reminders

• Keep hands and body parts away from high-pressure water.
• Control jetting hoses and watch for whip or sudden movement.
• Protect open manholes from falls and traffic.
• Use traffic control around work vehicles and access points.
• Wear PPE for sewage, splash, and aerosol exposure.
• Follow confined space procedures when required.
• Communicate clearly before pressurizing or moving hoses.

Ask the Crew

• Are workers clear before the jetter is pressurized?
• How will hose movement or whip be controlled?
• Are open manholes protected from falls and traffic?
• What PPE is needed for sewage splash and aerosol exposure?
• Do confined space or atmospheric testing requirements apply?