Pressure washers are great tools for blasting away dirt, grime and stains from almost all sorts of surfaces. They work wonders on driveways, patios and even roofs, giving them a fresh look with minimal effort. But while they’re super effective, using one requires a bit of know-how and care.

If you’re not careful, a pressure washer can cause some serious damage or even harm. The high pressure can wreck surfaces or injure you if you don’t know what you’re doing. In this blog, we’ll go over important pressure washer safety tips and explain why it’s often a good idea to leave the job to the pros.

Pressure Washer Safety

Professionals commonly use pressure washers for tough cleaning jobs and even post-disaster cleanup situations. Whether it’s washing building exteriors or clearing out equipment, they get the job done fast and efficiently. This cleaning approach requires expertise and experience to determine the right pressure levels and techniques to avoid causing damage.

These machines run at very high pressures, which can easily harm delicate surfaces or even people if used incorrectly. A wrong move could lead to injuries or slips, so it's highly recommended to use the right pressure settings and safety equipment. Having a professional handle the job ensures everything’s done safely and properly.

Pressure Washer Safety Tips and Precautions

Pressure washers can make tough cleaning tasks easier, but they also come with risks. To secure the safety of the operator and anyone nearby, follow these pressure washer safety tips and precautions when using a pressure washer:

Understand and Follow the Instructions Manual

Proper knowledge of the equipment helps avoid accidents and secures everyone’s safety with a high-pressure cleaner operating at its full potential.

Always Wear Proper Protective Gear and Equipment

Safety gear such as goggles, gloves and durable footwear protect operators from debris and potential slips.

Place the Pressure Washer in a Flat, Stable Area

For safe operation, the pressure washer should be placed on a flat, secure surface. This minimises the chance of the equipment tipping over or moving during use.

Never Point the Pressure Washer Gun at Any Person or Pet

Due to high pressure, the force of the water can cause serious injury. To guarantee pressure washer safety, always aim it away from people, pets or anything that could be harmed. 

Make Sure to Use the Right Nozzle

Different nozzles are designed for different tasks. Using the wrong nozzle can cause damage to the surface, so choosing the right one is very important for a safe and effective clean.

Always Check the Material of the Surface to Be Cleaned

Certain materials require lower pressure to avoid damage. Surfaces like wood, soft stone or painted areas can easily be dented or chipped off. Adjust the pressure to match the material being cleaned.

Test on a Small, Hidden Area First

Before cleaning the entire surface, test the pressure on a small, hidden area to check whether the pressure level is appropriate and won’t damage the material or surface.

The Hold on the Gun Must Always Be Firm

A secure grip on the pressure washer gun is also as important. A loose or unsteady hold can lead to accidents or the gun slipping, which may result in injury or damage.

Always Turn Off the Pressure When Not in Use

When taking breaks or finishing the job, always switch off the machine. This makes sure there’s no accidental water spray and promotes energy efficiency while keeping the job site safe.

Never Allow Children to Play Around a Pressure Washer

Pressure washers are powerful and potentially dangerous. Always keep the equipment out of reach of children to avoid accidents or injuries.

Best if Done by a Professional

For guaranteed safety and pristine results, it's always best to hire pressure cleaning experts. They have the experience, equipment and knowledge to guarantee the job is done efficiently and without risk of injury or damage.

Neglecting Safety with a High-Pressure Cleaner

While pressure washing is an effective cleaning method, neglecting safety with a high-pressure cleaner and mishandling can result in potential risks, such as:

Lacerations, Bruises, Eye Injuries, etc.

High-pressure streams can cause deep cuts, bruises or eye injuries if not handled with care. The intense force can easily break the skin or damage delicate areas of the body.

Slips, Trips and Falls

Water runoff from pressure washing can make surfaces slippery, creating a risk of slips and falls. It's recommended to use appropriate footwear to maintain traction and put up warning signs in the area to prevent accidents during the cleaning process.

Hose and Connection Failures

Faulty hoses or connections can lead to dangerous leaks or bursts. Regularly check the equipment for wear and tear to avoid pressure spikes.

Flying Debris

The powerful water stream from a pressure washer can easily dislodge debris. This flying debris can harm people and pets or damage surrounding property. Make sure the area is clear and wear protective gear.

Loss of Digits

Improper handling, especially when dealing with high-pressure streams or the nozzle, can lead to serious injuries such as loss of fingers or hands. Always maintain a secure grip and never point the nozzle at yourself or others.

Damage to Properties or Landscape

Incorrect pressure settings or improper nozzle selection can damage nearby objects, landscapes and even concrete surfaces that can be costly to fix.

Dent or Stripping off Surfaces

Using too much pressure on soft or delicate surfaces can cause dents, scratches and even strip off layers of paint.

Electric Shock

Many pressure washers operate on electricity and improper handling near electrical outlets or wiring can lead to electric shock. Keep power sources dry and follow proper electrical safety protocols to avoid this hazard.

Improper Chemical Handling

Using the wrong cleaning chemicals with high-pressure washers can lead to dangerous chemical exposure that can harm your health or the environment.

How Do Get Wet Cleaning Services Prioritise Pressure Washer Safety?

At Get Wet Cleaning Services, safety is our top priority. Our team is well-trained and follows strict pressure washer safety protocols that guarantee a safe and spotless clean that meets the highest standards.

Our professional approach to both residential and commercial pressure washing in Gold Coast and Brisbane has earned us the trust of many. We always deliver safe, efficient and unmatched cleaning services.

Book Get Wet Cleaning Services today!