Job Safety Analysis: Sewer Jetting

Print
Step Potential Hazard Control
Review work area and utility conditions Traffic hazards, unstable ground, confined space hazards Inspect site before work begins, identify nearby utilities and structures, establish safe work zone
Position sewer jet truck and secure area Vehicle movement, struck by traffic, poor visibility Set parking brake, use wheel chocks, activate warning lights, deploy cones and signs according to MUTCD guidelines
Inspect jetting equipment and hoses Hose failure, leaks, damaged nozzles, pressure hazards Conduct pre use inspection, replace damaged hoses or fittings, verify nozzle is secure
Open manhole or access point Falls, exposure to gases, pinch points Use proper lifting tools, stand clear when opening cover, monitor for hazardous atmospheres if needed
Set up jetting hose and nozzle Hose whipping, slips, splash exposure Secure hose properly, maintain clean footing, wear waterproof PPE
Start jetting system High pressure injection injury, flying debris, noise Use lowest effective pressure initially, keep personnel clear of nozzle, wear hearing protection
Advance hose into sewer line Sudden hose movement, exposure to sewage, struck by recoiling hose Maintain firm control of hose, communicate with operator, avoid standing directly behind nozzle
Remove blockages and flush line Splash exposure, airborne contaminants, unexpected pressure release Stay clear of manhole opening when possible, use proper PPE, monitor flow conditions
Retrieve hose and shut down system Hose whipping, residual pressure, slips Relieve pressure before disconnecting equipment, reel hose in carefully, avoid kinks and sudden movement
Clean and disinfect equipment Biological hazards, chemical exposure Wash hoses and tools, disinfect equipment as required, wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly
Restore site and reopen area Trip hazards, unsecured manholes, traffic exposure Replace covers securely, remove traffic control devices safely, inspect area before leaving

Suggested Personal Protective Equipment

  • Hard hat
  • Safety glasses or face shield
  • High visibility vest or Class 3 roadway garment
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Steel toe boots with slip resistant soles
  • Hearing protection
  • Waterproof clothing or rain gear
  • Respiratory protection when exposure to sewage gases or aerosols is possible

Always have a complete, well-stocked first aid kit available.

JSA Category: Water and Sewer Department 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.

Thank you to our primary sponsor, Roadwurx, which is a simple asset management platform for small public works and road departments.

Job Safety Analysis
Department: __________________________________
Job/Task:   Sewer Jetting
Location: __________________________________
Date: ____ /____ /____
Supervisor: __________________________________
Crew: __________________________________
Step Potential Hazard Control
Review work area and utility conditions Traffic hazards, unstable ground, confined space hazards Inspect site before work begins, identify nearby utilities and structures, establish safe work zone
Position sewer jet truck and secure area Vehicle movement, struck by traffic, poor visibility Set parking brake, use wheel chocks, activate warning lights, deploy cones and signs according to MUTCD guidelines
Inspect jetting equipment and hoses Hose failure, leaks, damaged nozzles, pressure hazards Conduct pre use inspection, replace damaged hoses or fittings, verify nozzle is secure
Open manhole or access point Falls, exposure to gases, pinch points Use proper lifting tools, stand clear when opening cover, monitor for hazardous atmospheres if needed
Set up jetting hose and nozzle Hose whipping, slips, splash exposure Secure hose properly, maintain clean footing, wear waterproof PPE
Start jetting system High pressure injection injury, flying debris, noise Use lowest effective pressure initially, keep personnel clear of nozzle, wear hearing protection
Advance hose into sewer line Sudden hose movement, exposure to sewage, struck by recoiling hose Maintain firm control of hose, communicate with operator, avoid standing directly behind nozzle
Remove blockages and flush line Splash exposure, airborne contaminants, unexpected pressure release Stay clear of manhole opening when possible, use proper PPE, monitor flow conditions
Retrieve hose and shut down system Hose whipping, residual pressure, slips Relieve pressure before disconnecting equipment, reel hose in carefully, avoid kinks and sudden movement
Clean and disinfect equipment Biological hazards, chemical exposure Wash hoses and tools, disinfect equipment as required, wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly
Restore site and reopen area Trip hazards, unsecured manholes, traffic exposure Replace covers securely, remove traffic control devices safely, inspect area before leaving
Suggested Personal Protective Equipment


Supervisor signature: __________________________________
Employee initials: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________