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#1 Posted : 18 June 2003 16:48:00(UTC)
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Posted By James Lumsden has any one done any risk assessments on powerwashers we are going to be using them to clean our fleet of trucks and was wondering if there was anything specific to look for any help would be appreciated cheers jim
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#2 Posted : 18 June 2003 21:18:00(UTC)
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Posted By STEVE Hi James, What pressure is your power washer? Are you aware that it only takes 100Psi to break the skin, this could then allow water and air to become forced into the artery which could lead to a major accident(amputation or death) Information,Instruction, Training and Supervision should all be considered. Is the pressure washer electrically or diesel powered, both of these have there own risks. Water and electrics dont mix Diesel is applicable to COSHH What noise level does the machine generate?,will it be used in a sheltered area where the noise will be amplified. What maintenance checklists do you have in place for the machine(PUWER) Do you have a safe system of work Have your employees had COSHH Awareness training(diesel,anti-freeze,descaler,oil) What PPE do you intend to use? Is your power washer a steam pressure washer, as this will generate hot surfaces on the barrel of the gun and around the exhaust. Is the washer new, or old , has it been serviced regular(minimum annually) Will you use detergents, cleaners when washing fleet of trucks(COSHH again, most are acidic) Where will the contaminated liquid wastes go(Not into storm drains I hope) Do you have any absorbents on hand in case of oils coming from trucks. How high will the trucks be washed,do you need access? Have you made employees aware of cables/pipes that can be found underneath the truck that could be damaged(brake lines etc.) Do employees know of the definition "splash back"- contaminant goes into eyes/face, dependant on how you hold the gun. Will the power washer be used in confined spaces- diesel fumes. Are employes aware that most low powered pressure washers are dry -shut control systems - this means that when the operative is not demanding pressure by pulling the trigger the high presure hose still remains under pressure which if daily checks have not been carried out, then the hose connectors could come loose and the hose would whip about crazily. Always depressurise the system The main point I will save till last: Never Never allow Operatives to fool about or point the gun at person or equipment. Whilst these machines look harmless they can be very hazardous if not used correctly. Whilst most shops now sell them with no regard to safety(generally find a indemnity clause in small print somewhere), I have seen the damage that this equipment can cause Hope this of some use Steve
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#3 Posted : 19 June 2003 11:06:00(UTC)
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Posted By Steve Holliday James, You can download free from the HSE website the leaflet "Do you use a steam/water pressure cleaner" indg68
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