Pressure washers are the ideal machines to use if you want a powerful tool that can remove stains and clean filthy and cluttered surfaces, whether for your home or at work.
But before rushing to use this powerful device, you have to realize that pressure washers might be a source of risk in the hands of someone inexperienced or reckless. A pressure washer gives a strong and hyper-concentrated jet of water that is capable of causing acute injuries and harm.
If you are considering using a pressure washer, here are a couple easy-to-follow tips to ensure safe and proper functioning.
1. Read the operator's manual
Knowing how the pressure washer functions, together with the manner of safe and suitable use, goes a very long way to keeping yourself protected. Take a minute to browse the entire user guide before using a pressure washer.
The user manual contains all the information one has to learn about the device: technical specifications, operational constraints and security precautions. Do know that there are plenty of kinds of pressure washers, every one with varying attributes and pressure levels, and there are many methods to safely use one.
2. Clear the area
Before starting cleanup operations, you need to get rid of any obstacles and potential tripping threats in the region. Do everything in your power to lower the likelihood of accidents such as slips and falls off happening.
Decide on a safety perimeter around the area aimed for pressure washing, ensuring that no individual or animal can enter that location.
When it's possible, have someone to keep watch as you are using the pressure washer. In case your watcher sees somebody coming, they could warn you, giving you ample time to turn off the washer.
3. Wear safety equipment
Most pressure washer-related accidents could have been prevented had the customer worn personal protective equipment. Listed below are a couple of the most important protective equipment a pressure washer operator should wear.
Safety goggles: The highly-pressurised water may dislodge debris which might shoot away and strike you or somebody else. It is critical that you use eye protection to protect your eyes from flying debris. If safety goggles aren't available, you can wear shatter-proof sunglasses instead, but this isn't suggested.
Hearing protection: many pressure washers produce considerable quantities of noise, especially the petrol-powered versions. Constant exposure to the sound may negatively affect your hearing if you are not careful. Wear hearing protection such as earmuffs or earbuds to protect your hearing from the high decibels.
Work gloves: One of the most common injuries related to pressure washers would be the hands accidentally getting hit by the water jet. Not only will wearing sturdy work gloves help protect your hands out of injuries, they also enhance your grip, reducing the possibilities of you inadvertently letting go of the washer.
Long pants: it is also important to pro ect your legs from the same dangers. The flying debris and the water can pierce the epidermis. Wearing pants can protect your legs from harms.
Steel-toed boots Always wear closed shoes or steel-toed boots when pressure washing. The water spray out of the pressure washer is strong enough to cut rubber and leather.
4. Steer clear of the water jet
A pressure washer isn't a toy. Never point a pressure washer towards an animal or another individual, even if it's turned off. The highly-pressurised jet of water may seriously damage or maim a person. Be wary of your surroundings as you are using a pressure washer.
Safe all exposed lighting fittings, electronics, windows and the like prior to employing a pressure washer. Take notice of anything that might be damaged if hit by the spray and then take steps to shield it from damage.
5. Consistently depressurise
Built-up pressure may stay inside the washer if it's been switched off. If discharged without depressurising, the water spray may seriously injure you. Disengage the pressure washer then squeeze the trigger before turning it off.