| Step | Potential Hazard | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect equipment and area | Damaged hoses, leaks, trip hazards, electrical hazards | Check hoses and fittings, inspect wand and trigger, ensure GFCI protection for electric units, clear area of obstacles |
| Connect water supply and pressure hose | Hose whipping, unexpected activation, leaks | Turn off unit before connecting hoses, tighten fittings, check for leaks before starting |
| Start pressure washer | Back spray, sudden pressure, engine hazards | Maintain firm grip on wand, point nozzle away from people, verify proper engine ventilation on gas units |
| Adjust nozzle and pressure settings | Injection injuries, equipment damage | Use lowest pressure needed, choose correct tip for job, never place hands or body in front of nozzle |
| Begin washing surface | Flying debris, injection injury, slip hazards, chemical exposure | Maintain stable footing, keep nozzle pointed away from people, use detergents according to instructions, avoid directing spray at electrical components |
| Work around vehicles, equipment, or buildings | Struck by moving vehicles, damage to surfaces | Use cones or signs, maintain awareness of surroundings, avoid high pressure spray on delicate surfaces |
| Shut down unit | Burns from hot engine, pressure release | Turn off engine or motor, release trigger to relieve pressure, disconnect hoses only after pressure has bled down |
| Drain hoses and store equipment | Whipping hoses, spills, trip hazards | Coil hoses neatly, drain water to prevent mold or freezing, store equipment properly |
| Clean work area | Slips, leftover debris, pooled water | Remove debris lifted by washing, sweep excess water, apply absorbent materials if needed |
Safety glasses or face shield
Waterproof gloves
Steel toe boots with non slip soles
Hearing protection
Waterproof apron or rain gear when needed
High visibility vest when working outdoors or near traffic
Always have a complete, well-stocked first aid kit available.
JSA Category: General Maintenance and Shop Operations
* The steps, hazards, and controls displayed above may be incomplete or not suit your department's needs. All job safety analyses should be a completed with frontline worker input to ensure that each potential hazard is identified and mitigated.
Please read about The Essentials Elements of a Solid Job Safety Anaylsis here.
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| Step | Potential Hazard | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect equipment and area | Damaged hoses, leaks, trip hazards, electrical hazards | Check hoses and fittings, inspect wand and trigger, ensure GFCI protection for electric units, clear area of obstacles |
| Connect water supply and pressure hose | Hose whipping, unexpected activation, leaks | Turn off unit before connecting hoses, tighten fittings, check for leaks before starting |
| Start pressure washer | Back spray, sudden pressure, engine hazards | Maintain firm grip on wand, point nozzle away from people, verify proper engine ventilation on gas units |
| Adjust nozzle and pressure settings | Injection injuries, equipment damage | Use lowest pressure needed, choose correct tip for job, never place hands or body in front of nozzle |
| Begin washing surface | Flying debris, injection injury, slip hazards, chemical exposure | Maintain stable footing, keep nozzle pointed away from people, use detergents according to instructions, avoid directing spray at electrical components |
| Work around vehicles, equipment, or buildings | Struck by moving vehicles, damage to surfaces | Use cones or signs, maintain awareness of surroundings, avoid high pressure spray on delicate surfaces |
| Shut down unit | Burns from hot engine, pressure release | Turn off engine or motor, release trigger to relieve pressure, disconnect hoses only after pressure has bled down |
| Drain hoses and store equipment | Whipping hoses, spills, trip hazards | Coil hoses neatly, drain water to prevent mold or freezing, store equipment properly |
| Clean work area | Slips, leftover debris, pooled water | Remove debris lifted by washing, sweep excess water, apply absorbent materials if needed |
Safety glasses or face shield
Waterproof gloves
Steel toe boots with non slip soles
Hearing protection
Waterproof apron or rain gear when needed
High visibility vest when working outdoors or near traffic