Posted By Diane Warne
Frank,
I have pasted below the results of a hazard identification exercise for a portable pressure washer, which I hope may be of some help. The info was put together from other people's usage guides and manufacturers' advice.
Regards
Diane
Mechanical hazards
Impact
· A spray lance or hose can move very suddenly and strike people, if fluid suddenly flows at high pressure. The water jet or spray can knock pieces off a surface, especially if the wrong nozzle or pressure is being used, and these pieces could hit someone standing nearby.
High pressure fluid ejection
· Pressure washers operate at pressures from 1,000 to 5,000 psi. Fluid under pressure from spray or leaks can penetrate the skin or eyes, causing serious injury that could result in amputation or death. High pressure leaks can occur, for example, if the hose is bent beyond the manufacturer's specified minimum bend radius, causing the hose to burst. They can also occur if a pump malfunctions causing unusually high pressures.
Non-mechanical
Thermal
· When hot water washers are used there is a risk of scalds. This is a risk, for example, if a hose is used that does not have the temperature capacity for hot water washing - the hose core may become hard and crack, and eventually burst.
Electrical
· The weakest part of the cleaner is the power cable. Electrical faults in the plug, cable or equipment may make the metal lance at the end of the flexible hose, or the machine's casing, live, causing an electric shock risk. The risk is heightened because of the water present.
Materials and substances
· When petrol-driven washers are used, the petrol itself is a hazard, being toxic, volatile and flammable. The cleaning fluid may contain detergents and waxes, which may be hazardous to health, e.g. detergents can cause dermatitis and allergies. If chemical injection cleaning is taking place, more aggressive chemicals may be in use.
Ergonomic
· Prolonged pressure washing in poor postures could cause muscle strain and fatigue, for example if a house exterior is being cleaned and the operator has to reach upwards with the spray lance for long periods. Lifting or transporting the cleaner could be a manual handling hazard.