Pressure Washer Operation

The Pressure Washer Operation SOP outlines critical safety procedures related to high-pressure washing operations, including hazard identification and risk mitigation strategies. It is essential for workers and safety officers in various industries to ensure compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act and safety regulations. This document helps prevent severe injuries, including burns, electric shocks, and respiratory issues, making it invaluable for maintaining a safe working environment.

• High-pressure injection injury into skin or eyes → severe tissue damage requiring surgical exploration even if the wound looks small
• Scalding from hot water units (water temperatures above 80 °C) → severe burns
• Electric shock from electric units in wet conditions → fatality
• Slips, trips, and falls on wet, contaminated surfaces
• Trigger gun kick-back at start-up causing loss of control of the lance → struck-by
• Hose burst at couplings releasing high-pressure water → struck-by
• Carbon monoxide poisoning from petrol or diesel units in enclosed spaces → fatality
• Eye injury and respiratory irritation from rebound spray, debris, and chemical aerosols

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Part 3.1 Managing risks of plant; Chapter 7 Hazardous chemicals
• AS/NZS 60335.1 — Household and similar electrical appliances — Safety — General requirements
• AS/NZS 60335.2.79 — Particular requirements for high-pressure cleaners and steam cleaners
• AS/NZS 3760 — In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment
• AS/NZS 1716 — Respiratory protective devices
• AS/NZS 1337 — Eye and face protectors
• AS 4775 — Emergency eyewash and shower equipment
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace
• Pressure Washer Pre-Start Checklist (associated document)