Health and Safety Policy for Pressure Washing Services

Purpose and Scope: This health and safety policy outlines the standards and procedures for pressure washing services, power washing operations, and related exterior cleaning activities conducted by our teams. It applies to all staff, contractors and subcontractors involved in jet washing, pressure cleaning, and high-pressure surface restoration work. The objective is to prevent accidents, control exposures to hazards and promote safe working practices for both personnel and the public.

Policy statement: Our commitment is to maintain a safe work environment where pressure washer operators follow established controls, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and participate in ongoing safety training. We recognize the inherent risks associated with high-pressure equipment, chemical cleaning agents, working at height and confined spaces, and we are dedicated to mitigating those risks through proactive management.

Responsibilities: Management will ensure resources and systems are in place to support safe power washing operations. Supervisors will enforce safe methods and conduct site risk assessments. Operatives must follow safe operating procedures, report hazards, and wear required PPE. Visitors and clients must be informed of exclusion zones and safety measures during pressure washing projects.

Hazard identification and risk assessment are fundamental. Before any pressure cleaning or jet washing services, a site-specific risk assessment will be completed to identify slip and trip risks, electrical hazards, fragile surfaces, nearby traffic, and environmental concerns such as wastewater runoff. Control measures will be implemented and documented, with higher-risk tasks requiring a permit-to-work or task-specific method statement.

Safe systems of work include isolation of utilities, securing work areas, using appropriate surface protection, and employing low-damage nozzle techniques where necessary. Teams shall never exceed recommended pressure or use unapproved nozzle configurations on delicate substrates. Chemical cleaners must be used according to manufacturer instructions and stored securely, with spill kits and neutralizing agents readily available.

The use of PPE is mandatory. Minimum PPE for pressure washer operations includes impact-resistant eye protection, chemical-resistant gloves, non-slip safety footwear, hearing protection, and appropriate protective clothing. For tasks involving elevated work or confined spaces, harnesses, respiratory protection and additional fall-arrest systems may be required. All PPE must be inspected and maintained in serviceable condition.

Training, Competence and Supervision

Operators of pressure washing equipment must be trained and deemed competent in pressure washer operation, hazard recognition, and emergency procedures. Training records will be maintained and refresher training scheduled regularly. New hires and temporary staff will be supervised until competence is demonstrated. Supervisors will perform periodic observations to ensure procedures are consistently followed.

Equipment Maintenance and Safe Use

All pressure washing machinery, hoses, couplings and nozzles will be inspected before use and subject to regular maintenance. Faulty equipment must be removed from service immediately. Portable electrical equipment must be protected against water ingress and used with RCD protection where required. Fuel-powered units must be refueled in well-ventilated areas, away from ignition sources, and with engines off.

Environmental controls focus on preventing contamination and protecting drains and waterways. Where detergents or biocides are used, biodegradable and approved products should be selected when possible. Containment systems, silt fencing and approved disposal methods will be employed to prevent contaminated run-off. Wastewater management plans must be part of every job plan.

Emergency response and incident reporting procedures will be communicated to all staff. First aid provisions, trained first-aiders and clear procedures for dealing with chemical exposure, high-pressure injection injuries, slips or falls must be in place. Incidents, near-misses and unsafe conditions will be logged, investigated and corrective actions tracked to prevent recurrence.

To support safer outcomes, the following controls shall be considered for every pressure washing project:

• Site segregation: Establish exclusion zones and use signage to keep the public clear of work areas.
• Electrical safety: Use residual current devices, maintain dry power connections, and avoid overhead power lines.
• Chemical handling: Use appropriate storage, labeling and spill response for cleaning agents.
• Working at height: Use fall protection, safe access platforms and ensure anchor points are inspected.
• Manual handling: Apply mechanical aids for heavy hoses and equipment to reduce strain injuries.

Monitoring and review: This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated to reflect operational experience, technological changes and lessons learned from incidents. Performance indicators such as incident frequency, audit results and training completion rates will guide continuous improvement in our exterior cleaning services.

Compliance with this policy is mandatory. Every team member has a duty to work safely and intervene if unsafe practices are observed. Through collaborative safety leadership, consistent procedures and practical risk controls, we aim to deliver high-quality pressure cleaning and power washing work while protecting people, property and the environment.

Conclusion: This health and safety policy establishes the framework for safe pressure washing operations. It emphasizes risk assessment, competent personnel, appropriate equipment maintenance, PPE use, environmental protection and robust emergency procedures. Adherence to these principles will help ensure that pressure washing projects are completed efficiently and safely.