Pressure Washing Safety Tips

The high pressure produced by a pressure washer can easily cut through flesh and cause very serious injuries. Pressure washers can cause high-pressure water injection, which is extremely dangerous and can result in amputation or severe nerve damage. It is essential to wear protective safety gear and follow safety protocols when using these powerful tools. 

Read the Manual 

Knowing how to properly operate a pressure washer is the first safety precaution to take. There are various differences among models, including features, water temperature, and pressure levels. 

Read the owner's manual entirely. These documents are typically concise but contain vital information for safe operation. In addition to safety tips, user manuals include instructions on model-specific safety features and the proper way to set up and disassemble the unit. 

Consider All Possible Hazards 

To avoid hazards, an operator must first be aware of them. Consider all potential risks before starting, including trip hazards, slippery or uneven surfaces, distractions, pets, children, and passing traffic. 

If it is necessary to stand in a street while pressure washing, use a spotter to watch for approaching vehicles. Monitoring traffic while trying to work is a dangerous distraction. If others are nearby, a responsible spotter can ensure no one approaches the work area to prevent the stream from being accidentally directed at them. After compiling a list of hazards, plan how to avoid them. 

Wear Proper Safety Gear 

The vast majority of pressure washer injuries can be prevented by wearing the proper safety gear. Users should avoid the common mistake of operating this equipment in sandals, shorts, or without eye protection. 

Boots 

Always wear closed-toe shoes or boots. Steel-toe boots are recommended, as high-pressure streams can potentially tear through rubber boots. 

Gloves 

Hands are among the most common body parts injured by pressure washers. Gloves protect the skin and improve grip, helping to avoid unnecessary accidents. 

Long Pants 

Because highly pressurized water blasts debris off surfaces, legs should be protected from flying objects that could break the skin. Additionally, long pants protect the legs from the downward jet of water when cleaning pavements or sidewalks. 

Safety Glasses 

Just as legs require protection from flying debris, eyes must be shielded from hazards propelled by pressurized water. Wear safety glasses or shatterproof sunglasses to protect against dirt and small debris. 

Hearing Protection 

When using a gas pressure washer, hearing protection is recommended. Because the motor is not enclosed, it generates high decibel levels that can cause hearing damage. Electric pressure washers are typically much quieter and generally do not require hearing protection. 

Pressure Washers Are Not Toys 

Pressure washers are professional tools and should never be aimed at people or pets. The high-pressure output can cause severe injury and must never be treated like a squirt gun. 

The operator should aim carefully at the intended surface before pulling the trigger. Never aim high-pressure turbo nozzles at windows or fragile materials; instead, use a low-pressure nozzle for glass and automobiles. Never allow children to operate a pressure washer and instruct others not to cross the path of the spray. 

Use the Safety Latch When Not Spraying 

When not actively spraying, engage the safety latch on the gun to prevent unintentional activation. Most guns feature a small lever on the handle that can be flipped to lock the trigger. 

A spray gun should never be placed on the ground without engaging this latch. Furthermore, a pressure washer should never be left unattended while running. If the operator must walk away for more than a minute, the unit should be turned off to protect the pump and prevent accidents. 

Never Use Gas Pressure Washers in Enclosed Areas 

Gas engines emit carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas. Never use gas-powered pressure washers in enclosed areas. Even with windows open, carbon monoxide can build up to dangerous levels. For indoor tasks, such as cleaning the inside of a garage, an electric pressure washer is the only safe option. 

Depressurize Before Disassembling 

Once the power washing task is finished, turn off the unit and squeeze the trigger to release remaining pressure. Even after the machine is shut down, internal pressure remains and can cause harm if released improperly.  

Hoses, guns, or nozzles should not be detached until this pressure is fully relieved, as removing a hose under pressure can release a high-velocity stream directly into the operator's hand.