Construction Safety: Pressure Washers

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Construction SafetyPressure Washers
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Pressure Washers for Dummies

• 4000psi of water
• Hooks up to regular garden hose
• Parts
• Water Pump
• Pressure Hose
• Trigger Gun

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What do pressure washers do?

• Used to clean off dirt and grime
• Typically used on concrete or sidings
• Some also use detergent to aid cleaning

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Whats the safety concern?

• High pressure water
• Excessive noise from compressor
• Flying debris during use
• Recoil from gun
• Electric shock from water electricity

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Injuries from Pressure Washers

• Contact with stream
• Hearing damage
• Injury from flying debris
• Falling from recoil and improper bracing
• Electrocution by water and power cords
• Slip and fall from wet surfaces
• CO2 Poisoning from gas powered engines

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Injury Statistics

• At least 13 total fatalities from electrocution
  involving washer
• Only 6 injuries in abdomen, almost all are injury
  to extremities
• High-pressure injuries began around 1930
• Increasing use has increased injuries

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When Pressure Washers Attack

• Pressure washing roof without footwear
• Slipped on slick roof
• Shot leg with pressure washer, huge cut

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When Pressure Washers Attack

• Pressure washing roof without footwear
• Slipped on slick roof
• Shot leg with pressure washer, huge cut

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When Pressure Washers Shock

• Not properly grounded electric washer
• Power cord running over wet ground
• Electrocuted while washing wall

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When Pressure Washers Shock

• Not properly grounded electric washer
• Power cord running over wet ground
• Electrocuted while washing wall

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Operation Safety Procedures

• Make sure unit is stabilized
• Always have water connected
• Always keep hoses connected while on
• Never refuel while running or hot
• Keep all cords away from water
• Read all manufacturer's provided material

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Using a Pressure Washer Safely

• Stand in firm stance to avoid recoil
• Keep nozzle away from body
• Never adjust/change tip while on
• Use on stable surface if possible
• Avoid water puddles
• Keep motor well ventilated

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Personal Safety Equipment

• Always wear closed toed shoes
• Always wear eye protection
• Always wear hearing protection
• Gloves with excessive use

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Proper Washer Use

• All PPE used
• Solid ground
• Safely set up area

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Pressure Washing Pictures
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The End!

• Pressure Washing can be dangerous
• All safety precautions should be taken
• There are many things that can go wrong, but all
  can be prevented!