Pressure washing is a great way to clean the molds, dirt, fungus from the surfaces and different objects. But, like any equipment, pressure washer can cause injuries if you are not careful enough. Let's look at some general safety tips that you can apply while operating a pressure washer.Personal Safety
It is imperative that everyone using a pressure washer must read the safety and an operation instruction in the owner's manual because the equipment varies from brand to brand.
Wear all appropriate clothing, safety glasses, gloves, shoes and hearing protection.
Grasp the spray gun firmly with both hands just in case the gun kicks back while pressing the spray gun trigger.
Do not point the spray on someone or any animal because the high pressure spray can cut through skin and cause serious injuries.
Be cautious when spraying near electrical meters, wires, power lines, service feeds and flammable liquids.
Point the spray gun in a safe direction because the unit traps the water inside, even when it is stopped. The trigger lock should always be engaged when not in use.
Do not leave the unit unattended and do not allow children near the pressure washing site.
Equipment Safety:
Always check the engine oil level every time you use your pressure washer. Do not over fill the engine crankcase because it can cause spark plug fouling, smoke and oil saturation in the filter and you will have difficulty starting your unit. Never refuel the machine in the hot or running engine, wait for it to cool down.
Place the washer in the leveled surface and always operate the unit only when it is attached to the water supply because it can cause damage to your machine. The unit should always be operated in a well-ventilated area.
The pressure hose should always be connected to the machine and the spray gun while the unit is pressurized.
Never secure the spray gun in the squeezed or spray position.
Do not try to change or adjust the spray pattern while spraying.
Do not use scaffolding or ladders while pressure washing. Use hose extensions and brushes.
If the pressure hose is damaged do not try to fix it. Replace the hose with a new one.
Usage
Right Nozzle: Pressure washer's tip is color coded to dictate the degree of spray. You should use the right nozzle for the right task; otherwise you could damage the surface.
Red (o°) - The pressure is concentrated into the smallest area.
Yellow (15°) - Yellow tip is the most common one in the lot. It is used to remove tough unwanted substances like old paints.
Green (25°) - The green tip will give you both good impact and good coverage. It is more appropriated for washing.
White (40°) - The white tip will give you a wide spray ideal for delicate situations. You can use this tip for washing vehicles and decks.
Black - The black tip has the largest opening and is used for chemical/water mixture application.
Turbo Nozzle - Turbo nozzle uses 0° tip to create a highest impact and cover the maximum space. It can also be changed to 15° or 25°. This type of nozzle will wear out quicker that standard nozzle.
Right Cleaner: Always use detergents and cleaners that are approved by the manufacturer.
Right Spray Angle: You should always experiment the spray angle to get the best and quick cleaning result.
Help us reduce incidents, accidents, and injuries in the workplace. Stay safe, stay healthy-Emma Stearns
The pressure hose should always be connected to the machine and the spray gun while the unit is pressurized.
Never secure the spray gun in the squeezed or spray position.
Do not try to change or adjust the spray pattern while spraying.
Do not use scaffolding or ladders while pressure washing. Use hose extensions and brushes.
If the pressure hose is damaged do not try to fix it. Replace the hose with a new one.
Usage
Right Nozzle: Pressure washer's tip is color coded to dictate the degree of spray. You should use the right nozzle for the right task; otherwise you could damage the surface.
Red (o°) - The pressure is concentrated into the smallest area.
Yellow (15°) - Yellow tip is the most common one in the lot. It is used to remove tough unwanted substances like old paints.
Green (25°) - The green tip will give you both good impact and good coverage. It is more appropriated for washing.
White (40°) - The white tip will give you a wide spray ideal for delicate situations. You can use this tip for washing vehicles and decks.
Black - The black tip has the largest opening and is used for chemical/water mixture application.
Turbo Nozzle - Turbo nozzle uses 0° tip to create a highest impact and cover the maximum space. It can also be changed to 15° or 25°. This type of nozzle will wear out quicker that standard nozzle.
Right Cleaner: Always use detergents and cleaners that are approved by the manufacturer.
Right Spray Angle: You should always experiment the spray angle to get the best and quick cleaning result.
Help us reduce incidents, accidents, and injuries in the workplace. Stay safe, stay healthy-Emma Stearns
