Health and Safety Policy for Jet Washing Operations
This policy sets out the commitment to safe, responsible jet washing and pressure washing activities carried out by the organisation. It applies to all personnel involved in high-pressure cleaning, power washing, and associated site support tasks. The primary objective is to prevent harm to people, protect property and the environment, and ensure that every task is planned, supervised and carried out with appropriate controls and competence. The company will take a proactive approach to risk management, emphasising training, safe systems of work, and ongoing review.Roles and Responsibilities
Managers are responsible for providing resources, appointing competent supervisors and ensuring that a documented risk assessment and method statement is in place for each jet-cleaning activity. Supervisors must ensure operators are briefed, that machinery is maintained and that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is available. Operatives are required to follow instructions, use PPE correctly and report hazards. Contractors and visitors must comply with site rules and cooperate with safety arrangements.
Risk Assessment and Control Measures
All pressure-cleaning jobs require a pre-start risk assessment to identify hazards such as slip risks, working at height, chemical exposure, manual handling and interaction with traffic or pedestrians. Controls should be proportionate and clear, and may include:- Engineering controls: use of pressure settings appropriate to the surface, nozzles that reduce kickback, and secure hose management.
- Administrative controls: clear permits, exclusion zones and safe systems of work.
- PPE: face shields, non-slip footwear, gloves and hearing protection when using power washers.
Method Statements and Safe Systems
Method statements for pressure washing and power washing should detail task sequence, equipment checks and emergency procedures. Pre-start inspections must confirm that hoses and fittings are intact, pressure relief valves operate, and that chemical dosing devices are set correctly. Job plans should account for weather, surface contamination, substrate vulnerability and the proximity of people or sensitive environments.
PPE, Equipment and Chemical Safety
Operators must use a documented PPE matrix and wear appropriate gear when performing high-pressure cleaning. Training shall cover correct handling of detergents and dispersants, safe use of lances and trigger guns, and avoidance of direct contact with spray. Equipment maintenance schedules must be recorded, including pressure testing, hose replacement, and engine servicing. Only compatible cleaning agents licensed for the intended use should be used and stored in labelled containers away from ignition sources.Wastewater management and environmental protection are essential. Containment and collection of runoff should be used where chemicals or polluting residues are present. Where possible, employ low-flow techniques, biodegradable agents and minimize discharge to drains. Implement surface protection to prevent damage to nearby assets and infrastructure.
Emergency Procedures and Incident Management
Clear procedures for first aid, fire, and spill response must be available at all sites. An incident reporting process will ensure timely investigation, corrective actions and lessons learned. Emergency shutdown arrangements for pressure units and pumps should be known to all operators. For chemical exposures, provide readily accessible material safety data sheets and appropriate decontamination measures.
Training, Competency and Supervision
Training is central to safe jet-cleaning operations. All operators will receive induction, task-specific training and periodic refresher sessions covering power washing techniques, hazard recognition, manual handling, and control of mechanical risks. Supervisors must verify competence, supervise high-risk tasks and maintain training records. Competency checks should include observed practical assessments and knowledge of safe systems of work.
Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement
The organisation will monitor compliance through routine inspections, audits and toolbox talks. Performance indicators such as incident rates, near-miss reports and audit findings will drive improvements. This jet washing and pressure-cleaning policy will be reviewed at regular intervals and whenever there is a significant change to equipment, processes or site conditions. Continuous improvement is supported by prompt corrective actions, staff feedback and adaptation of best practice techniques.Summary of Key Controls
- Plan every job with a documented risk assessment and method statement.
- Protect workers with appropriate PPE and equipment safeguards.
- Prevent environmental harm by containing runoff and using suitable cleaning agents.
- Prepare for emergencies with clear procedures and accessible first aid.