First of all, we all know that pressure washers can make our life a lot easier. With it, we will be able to clean almost all kinds of surfaces a lot easier and it will also help us do so with maximum efficiency. However you need to remember that although it may seem that pressure washers are very easy to operate and that they are safe to use, you still need to keep in mind that they are power tools.
Improper handling of power washers can result to injury, which is why you have to know how to safely operate this piece of machinery. You need to remember that pressure washers are not your daily garden hose. In fact, people describe power washers are garden hoses on steroids and they should be treated as equipment in line with brush cutters, chainsaws, and other commercial or industrial power equipments.
So, what are the safety reminders that you need to remember whenever you use pressure washers?
Well, for starters, you should always wear protective clothing. Because you will be working with water, you may get tempted to work on your bathing suit or on your board shorts. Under any circumstances, you should not do this. When working with pressure washers, you should wear goggles or blast shield, boots, coveralls or raincoat, and ear plugs.
If you are going to use the pressure washer with cleaning agents or chemicals, you might want to consider using a reliable mask, such as a gas mask. This will prevent you from inhaling the toxic fumes that cleaning chemicals emit. You should also use a pair of gloves and duct tape it to your raincoat to seal to prevent fluid from seeping in.
Secondly, you have to check every part of the pressure washer before you start operation. Make sure that everything is in good working condition and are working properly to avoid injuries that may occur if the unit malfunctions.
This means that you have to look for leaks in the pump, check the oil levels, electric motors, and the electric cord for tears. You should also make sure that you will avoid wet spots whenever you use extension cords for your pressure washer.
Also, try to make sure that the nozzles, wands, and spray tips are free from clogs. Keep in mind that you will be working with very high pressure and you might propel these clogs at a very high pressure, which can result in damaging a property or injuries.
Always keep in mind that you should never point the nozzle to anyone. And, try to start with low pressure and increase it gradually to get the best result. Also, make sure that you are using the right spray tips for the type of work you are doing with the pressure washer.
You also have to make sure that you have another person working with you, especially if you are going to work on a ladder or ledge. If no one is available to work with you, it is highly recommended that you use a telescoping wand to clean high surfaces.
Lastly, always remember to clean the equipment after using. Run clear water through the system if you used cleaning chemicals to prevent corrosion inside the pump, trigger gun, and wand. Before stowing the pressure washer away, make sure that you should let the engine cool down first.
These are the safety precautions that you need to remember whenever you operate a pressure washer. Keep in mind that you will be working with water in high pressure or possibly high temperatures. And, you will also be working with electricity.
To avoid injuries, always follow the manufacturer’s recommended safety precautions when operating a pressure washer.
