Pressure Washer Safety

There are many different types of injuries that can occur while using a pressure washer. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 6,057 people went to an emergency room with injuries related to pressure washer use in 2014. While the pressure of the water can be considered the biggest exposure to risk during this work task, there are certainly many more hazards to be considered. 

Hazards and Injuries Associated with Pressure Washing 

• Hose/ connection failure
• Flying debris
• Strains/ sprains
• Burns
• Slips, trips, falls
• Lacerations/ bruises 

Safeguards to prevent pressure washing injuries

•  Set up your work area where other people are not in the line of fire of the water stream or flying debris.
• Use a longer wand that makes it hard for the individual who is using the pressure washer to make contact with their own body. However, weigh the pros and cons of using a longer wand if the task is being done over a long period of time which may lead to repetitive stress or sprain injuries.
• When using a pressure washer that is also supplied with heat, do not turn it all the way up. Be cautious of burn injuries. • Maintain good housekeeping. Keep the area free of trip hazards. Remove excess mud to prevent slip injuries.
• Wear the proper PPE. Depending on what is being cleaned and the power of the pressure washer will dictate what exact PPE is needed. A good start is rain gear, safety toe boots, gloves, safety glasses, and face shield.
• Never use a pressure washer to spray off yourself or your boots. 

Consider all of the risks of pressure washing and what steps you need to take to protect yourself and the others around you. While the main hazard considered is the pressure of the water, there are many more secondary hazards that could lead to the actual injury. What are some additional safeguards you can choose to use to help prevent an injury while using a pressure washer at home or work?