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Do you have a high-pressure washer but don’t know how to use it safely? This document provides detailed materials on occupational safety when operating a high-pressure washer. Learn the principles and guidelines to ensure the machine is used effectively and safely, protecting your health and avoiding unwanted accidents.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY FOR WORK RELATED TO HIGH-PRESSURE WASHERS

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some occupational accidents when operating a high-pressure washer

Operating a high-pressure washer is an activity that requires caution and adherence to safety rules. Below are some common accidents that can occur when working with a high-pressure washer:

Being Sprayed with High-Pressure Water on the Skin: Not wearing adequate protective gear such as gloves and a waterproof jacket can lead to injuries from high-pressure water directly hitting the skin.
Risk of Electric Shock: If the washer is not used correctly or not regularly maintained, the risk of electric shock from this device can occur, especially when working in a wet environment.
Danger from Falling Objects: During operation, objects such as hoses, machine parts, or cleaned materials can fall, posing a danger to surrounding workers.
Working on Slippery Surfaces: When working on surfaces like floors or wet ground, using a high-pressure washer can lead to the risk of slipping and causing injury.
Danger of Inhaling Chemicals: If the correct instructions for using chemicals in the pressure washer are not followed, workers can inhale harmful chemicals.

To ensure the safety of workers when operating a high-pressure washer, it is necessary to adhere to safety rules, wear adequate protective gear, provide training for users, and perform regular maintenance on the equipment. In addition, regularly monitoring and checking the condition of the washer is also very important to minimize the risk of occupational accidents.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN OPERATING A HIGH-PRESSURE WASHER

I. Introduction

A. Overview of the importance of occupational safety when operating a high-pressure washer

Occupational safety is an extremely important factor when operating equipment such as a high-pressure washer. The use of a high-pressure washer can pose many risks and threats to the health of the user and those around them. First, the high pressure of the water can cause serious damage to the skin and soft tissues of anyone in direct contact. Improper use can lead to serious injury or burns.

In addition, working with a high-pressure washer also carries a risk of accidents and damage due to electrical shorts. Using this device in a wet environment and near power sources can create a dangerous situation. To avoid electrical accidents, it is necessary to follow safety guidelines and ensure that the machine is plugged into a safe power source and is not submerged in water.

Besides that, the risk of slipping and falling is also a significant concern. Wet floor surfaces can increase the risk of falls, causing injury or damage to the machinery. Therefore, wearing slip-resistant shoes and always keeping the work area clean and dry is very important.

B. Important safety protocols and regulations when operating a high-pressure washer

When operating a high-pressure washer, adhering to safety protocols and regulations is very important to ensure the safety of the user and those around them. First, training and instructing the user on how to operate the machine is essential. The user needs to know how to adjust the pressure and water flow appropriately for each job without causing danger.

Next, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory. The operator needs to wear safety glasses, waterproof gloves, and a long jacket to protect the skin from the impact of pressure and water.

Regulations regarding electricity and water sources must also be strictly followed. The high-pressure washer needs to be plugged into a safe power source and should not be used near power sources with a risk of short-circuiting. In addition, ensure that the outlet and power cord do not get wet to avoid accidents.

Finally, regular maintenance and inspection of the pressure washer are also an important part of the safety protocols. The machine needs to be checked before and after use to ensure that no parts are damaged or leaking, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents.

II. Components and Functions of a High-Pressure Washer

A. The different components of a high-pressure washer

A high-pressure washer is a device with many important components that support its operation. The main components of a high-pressure washer include the motor, pressure pump, valve system, and control unit.

Motor: Usually an electric motor or a gasoline engine to generate the necessary power for the pressure pump. Electric motors are more common in home and small commercial applications, while gasoline engines are often used in industrial applications.
Pressure Pump: This is the component responsible for creating high pressure in the water stream. The pump is usually equipped with a set of valves and pistons to create the high pressure needed for water spraying.
Valve System: Used to control the water flow and pressure. A safety valve may be integrated to protect the machine and the user from unexpected incidents.
Control Unit: This is where the user can adjust the pressure and water flow according to their needs. The control unit may also include functions such as turning the machine on/off, adjusting water temperature (if available), and other working modes.

In addition to these main components, a high-pressure washer also has accessories such as a spray hose, nozzle, and filter. These components play an important role in ensuring the machine operates effectively and safely. Overall, the combination of these components creates a complete high-pressure washer that can meet various cleaning and washing needs.

B. Structure and operating principle of a high-pressure washer

A high-pressure washer is a specialized device designed to create high pressure in a water stream, helping to clean surfaces effectively. The basic structure of a high-pressure washer includes the following main components:

Motor: The source of power or energy to operate the machine’s pressure pump. The motor is usually an electric or gasoline engine, generating the necessary power for the pump’s operation.
Pressure Pump: The most important component of a high-pressure washer, creating high pressure in the water stream. The pump typically uses a system of pistons or valves to generate high pressure, forcing water through the hose and nozzle.
Hose and Nozzle System: Used to carry water from the source to the pump and from the pump to the spray nozzle. These are usually high-pressure resistant and wear-resistant hoses.

The operating principle of a high-pressure washer is to use the high pressure of the water to clean surfaces. When the machine is in operation, the motor generates the necessary power to pump water from the source into the machine, which then passes through the pressure pump to create high pressure. The water is then forced through the hose and nozzle at high pressure, creating a powerful stream of water that can clean dirt, grime, and other substances stuck to surfaces.

The structure and operating principle of a high-pressure washer are simple yet effective. Adjusting the pressure and water flow appropriately is important to ensure the cleaning job is done effectively and safely.

C. Applications in the service, industrial, and construction sectors of a high-pressure washer

High-pressure washers have many important applications in the service, industrial, and construction sectors. In the service industry, professional cleaning and sanitation services often use high-pressure washers to clean the exterior surfaces of buildings, bridges, rooftops, or other objects. Car wash services also use high-pressure washers to remove dirt, grease, and other residues from cars and trucks.

In the industrial sector, high-pressure washers are used to clean and maintain industrial equipment such as machinery, production equipment, pipelines, and metal surfaces. The use of high pressure helps to remove stubborn dirt and oil, thereby increasing the efficiency and lifespan of industrial equipment.

On construction sites, high-pressure washers are used to clean dirt and stains from hard surfaces such as concrete, brick, and metal before painting or surface treatment. This is an important tool that helps ensure construction surfaces are clean and ready for the next task.

D. Risks associated with operating a high-pressure washer

Operating a high-pressure washer can pose many serious risks if not done correctly. The main risks are related to the high pressure of the water and its impact on the human body and surrounding objects. Extremely high water pressure can cause serious injuries to the skin, soft tissues, and body if there is direct contact. Not using personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and a protective gown can make the operator vulnerable to injury.

In addition, the risk of electric shock is also a major risk when operating a high-pressure washer, especially when working near power sources or in wet environments. Using unsafe or unsecured equipment can also cause accidents or electric shocks.

Surrounding objects are also at risk of being damaged by the high water pressure. Not controlling or adjusting the pressure appropriately can lead to damage to the surfaces of objects such as paint, wood, or glass.

III. Safety Inspection and Maintenance Before Operating a High-Pressure Washer

A. Safety check before operating a high-pressure washer

Before operating a high-pressure washer, a safety check is very important to ensure the operation is carried out safely and effectively. First, inspect the machine’s components such as the water hose, spray nozzle, filter, and pressure pump to ensure they are not damaged, leaking, or clogged. You also need to check and ensure that all hoses and accessories are installed tightly and securely.

Next, examine the power sources and electrical connections. Ensure that the power outlet and cord are not damaged and are suitable for the power needs of the high-pressure washer. Check the safety warnings and automatic power-off mechanisms to ensure safety in case of an incident.

After that, check your personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and a waterproof gown. Ensure you have prepared full protective gear before operating the machine to protect yourself from the risk of injury and the effects of high-pressure water.

Finally, check the surrounding work area to ensure there are no other people or animals nearby while the machine is in operation. If working in a confined space or on unstable surfaces, be especially careful to avoid accidents.

B. Guide to periodic maintenance of a high-pressure washer

Periodic maintenance is a key factor in maintaining the performance and lifespan of a high-pressure washer. To maintain the machine periodically, you need to perform the following steps:

Check and clean the filter: Regularly check and clean the filter to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in the system. a dirty filter can reduce the machine’s performance and cause damage to other parts.
Check the water hose and spray hose: Periodically inspect the water hoses and spray hoses for signs of wear or damage. Replace damaged parts to ensure water flows effectively and safely.
Check the pump and motor: Periodically check the pump and motor to ensure they are operating normally and show no signs of failure. Lubricate necessary parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions to increase the machine’s lifespan.
Clean and maintain other parts: Clean and maintain other parts such as valves, pistons, and control devices to ensure they operate stably and achieve maximum performance.
Safety check: Periodically check safety mechanisms such as the pressure sensor, safety valve, and automatic power-off system to ensure the machine always operates in safe conditions.

Overall, periodic maintenance of a high-pressure washer is necessary to avoid unexpected incidents and to ensure the machine always operates effectively. Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions and performing regular maintenance will help extend the lifespan and performance of your high-pressure washer.

IV. Safe Operating Procedure for a High-Pressure Washer

A. Step-by-step guide on the safe operating procedure for a high-pressure washer

To operate a high-pressure washer safely and effectively, there are several important steps to follow. First, before you begin, make sure you have thoroughly checked the machine’s components such as the water hose, spray nozzle, and control unit to ensure they are functioning normally and without any issues.

Next, wear full personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and a waterproof gown before operating the machine. This is an important step to protect you from the risk of injury due to the high pressure of the water.

Then, when turning on the machine, start it gently and slowly. Do not apply too much pressure initially; gradually increase it as needed to avoid damaging the surface or object being cleaned.

When in use, always maintain a safe distance between the spray nozzle and the surface to be cleaned to avoid scratches or damage. Move the nozzle steadily and make sure not to spray water on sensitive items.

B. Emergency handling measures and incident response mechanisms when operating a high-pressure washer

When operating a high-pressure washer, understanding and applying emergency handling measures is very important to deal with unexpected situations and incidents that may occur. First, if you encounter a problem such as a sudden loss of water pressure, check the water source and hose to ensure there are no kinks or blockages. Also, check the water valve and pressure relief valve to ensure they are working normally.

If the high-pressure washer experiences an electrical problem, for example, a sudden power loss, stop using the machine immediately and check the power source. Ensure that the outlet and power cord are not damaged and are plugged into a safe power source.

In the event of a safety-related incident with the high-pressure washer, such as a water leak, immediately turn off the machine and disconnect the power to prevent the risk of electric shock. Then, proceed to inspect and repair the parts that are damaged or causing the incident.

V. Risk Assessment and Hazard Management when Operating a High-Pressure Washer

A. Identifying potential risks and hazards in operating a high-pressure washer

During the operation of a high-pressure washer, there are many potential risks and hazards that the user needs to identify and proactively address. One of the main risks is the high pressure of the water, which can cause serious injury to the skin, soft tissues, and human body if not used correctly. Not wearing adequate personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, and a waterproof gown can make the operator vulnerable to injury.

In addition, the high pressure of the water can also cause damage to sensitive surfaces such as wood, paint, glass, and plastic. Using too much pressure can scratch surfaces, break glass, or dull surfaces, causing unwanted damage.

Other risks may include the risk of electric shock from using the machine near a power source or in a wet environment, as well as safety risks in transporting and storing the high-pressure washer.

B. Effective hazard prevention strategies when operating a high-pressure washer

1. Regular inspection and maintenance of the high-pressure washer for safe operation

To ensure the safe and effective operation of a high-pressure washer, regular inspection and maintenance are very important. First, you should perform a general inspection of the machine to ensure that components such as the motor, pressure pump, valves, water hose, and spray nozzle are all working normally. Check the electrical cords and outlets to ensure there are no signs of damage or electrical leaks.

Next, consider replacing or cleaning the filters, control unit, and valves to remove accumulated dirt and debris. Regular maintenance of these parts helps maintain the high performance of the machine and ensures safety during operation.

In addition, you also need to regularly maintain the pressure pump and other high-pressure components. Lubricating the necessary parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions is very important to reduce friction and wear during the machine’s operation.

2. Adhere to occupational safety regulations for the safe operation of a high-pressure washer

To ensure the safe operation of a high-pressure washer, it is very important to adhere to occupational safety regulations. First, the operator needs to be trained on the risks and accident prevention measures when using a high-pressure washer. This training includes instructions on how to use the machine correctly, wear full personal protective equipment, and become familiar with safety procedures.

Second, the operator must always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and regulations for the high-pressure washer. This includes reading and understanding the user manual, ensuring the machine is only used for the tasks it was designed for, and performing safety checks before use.

Finally, the operator should always be safety-conscious and work in a team or have someone nearby in case of an emergency. These are basic but very important regulations to ensure safety during the operation of a high-pressure washer and to avoid unwanted accidents.

3. Identify and mark the safe zone when operating a high-pressure washer

During the operation of a high-pressure washer, identifying and marking the safe zone is very important to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. First, identify the areas to be cleaned and clearly mark these areas with signs or tape to indicate where the high-pressure washer will be used.

Then, identify unsafe areas, such as traffic zones or areas with high foot traffic. Ensure that these areas are clearly marked and avoid using the high-pressure washer in these unsafe areas.

In addition, always maintain a safe distance between the high-pressure washer and sensitive objects or surfaces such as cars, windows, painted designs, and electronic devices. Maintaining a safe distance will help prevent unwanted scratches or damage.

4. Use personal protective equipment when operating a high-pressure washer

When operating a high-pressure washer, the use of personal protective equipment is extremely important to ensure the operator’s safety. First, always wear a helmet to protect your head in case of falling or impacting objects.

Second, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from water spray and flying debris. Safety glasses also help prevent foreign objects such as stones or fragments from the cleaned surface.

In addition, always wear waterproof gloves and a waterproof gown to protect your skin from the pressure and high-pressure water. Wearing adequate personal protective equipment will minimize the risk of injury and illness from direct contact with high-pressure water.

5. Emergency procedure and response in case of an incident when operating a high-pressure washer

When operating a high-pressure washer, being prepared for incident situations is very important to respond quickly and effectively. First, always keep a phone or emergency communication device readily available to call for help when needed.

In the event that the high-pressure washer encounters an issue such as a sudden loss of water pressure, immediately check the water source and hose to find the cause and fix it. If the machine has an electrical problem, immediately turn off the power and check the power source and connections to ensure safety.

In addition, in the event of a safety incident such as a water leak or risk of electric shock, stop operating the machine immediately and take safety measures to prevent danger. Call a team of experts or technical staff immediately for timely support and repair.

6. Participate in occupational safety courses when operating a high-pressure washer

Occupational safety and health training is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to the safety and health of workers. It helps employees recognize and deal with risks and hazardous situations, thereby minimizing accidents, injuries, or fatalities in their daily work.

The risk of accidents is always present and can happen at any time in the work environment due to human error and the inability to foresee every situation. This emphasizes the need for occupational safety training and constant vigilance.

When participating in occupational safety training at An Toan Nam Viet Center, workers will be methodically trained from theory to real-life risk scenarios. Accordingly, there will be measures to identify and prevent occupational accident risks that may occur during work. After the training course, trainees will take occupational safety tests to obtain an occupational safety certificate. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as valid certification for work.

VI. Factors Affecting Occupational Safety when Operating a High-Pressure Washer

A. How weather conditions affect the operation of a high-pressure washer

Weather conditions can significantly affect the operation of a high-pressure washer. In high-temperature environments, especially during the summer, water and surfaces can dry quickly, making cleaning more difficult. High water pressure can also easily damage sensitive surfaces such as paint, wood, or plastic in high-temperature conditions.

Conversely, in cold weather conditions, especially when the temperature drops below freezing, the water in the high-pressure washer can freeze, causing damage to the pump and other parts of the machine. Using a high-pressure washer in cold weather can also reduce the machine’s efficiency.

In addition, wet weather conditions can increase the risk of slipping when using a high-pressure washer on surfaces such as stone or tile floors. This is especially important for slippery surfaces, where the risk of falling and injury can be higher in wet weather conditions.

B. How the working environment affects the operation of a high-pressure washer

The working environment has a significant impact on the operation of a high-pressure washer. First, an environment with a lot of dust or poor air quality can clog the machine’s parts such as the filter, hoses, and pump. This can lead to a decrease in the machine’s operating efficiency and require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Second, a wet working environment can increase the risk of slipping when using a high-pressure washer on surfaces such as stone or tile floors. This can be dangerous for the operator and requires more caution during the use of the machine.

In addition, the working environment can affect the safety of the operator, especially when working in places with many people or traffic passing by. Assessing and ensuring a safe working environment is very important to avoid accidents and unwanted incidents.

C. How the technical condition of a high-pressure washer affects its operation

The technical condition of a high-pressure washer directly affects its operation. First, the water pressure generated by the high-pressure washer depends on the performance of the pressure pump. If the pressure pump has problems or is not working correctly, the water pressure may not reach the desired level, leading to poor cleaning performance.

Second, other parts of the machine such as valves, hoses, and nozzles also need to be regularly inspected and maintained. If these parts are damaged or clogged, the machine will not operate effectively and may cause problems during operation.

In addition, the power consumption of the high-pressure washer is also an important factor. If the machine consumes too much or unstable power, it can cause electrical safety issues or damage the electrical components of the machine.

D. How the safety knowledge and skills of the worker affect the operation of a high-pressure washer

The safety knowledge and skills of the worker play an important role in the operation of a high-pressure washer. First, safety knowledge includes understanding how to use the machine correctly and safely. Workers need to know how to inspect the machine before use to ensure it is working properly and does not pose a danger. They also need to know how to adjust the water pressure appropriately for the specific purpose, avoiding creating excessive pressure that could cause injury.

Regarding skills, workers need to be trained on how to use the machine effectively and understand how to handle common problems. This skill includes how to move through the workflow safely, to avoid collisions with others or surrounding objects. They also need to know how to use personal protective equipment correctly, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a waterproof gown.

VII. Occupational Safety Training on Skills for Safe Operation of a High-Pressure Washer

A. Why operators of high-pressure washers need to be trained in occupational safety

Operators of high-pressure washers need to be trained in occupational safety for several important reasons. First, a high-pressure washer operates at very high pressure, which can be dangerous if not used correctly. Occupational safety training helps operators understand how to adjust the pressure and use the machine safely, reducing the risk of occupational accidents and injuries.

Second, occupational safety training provides knowledge about the potential hazards when operating a high-pressure washer. Trained individuals will know how to identify and deal with dangerous situations, such as working near power sources, flammable materials, or in difficult weather conditions. This increases the operator’s alertness and precaution during work.

Finally, occupational safety training benefits both the individual and the organization. A trained operator will have a more professional and safer work posture, helping to increase efficiency and minimize the risks of occupational accidents. At the same time, adhering to safety rules also creates a positive work environment and enhances the organization’s reputation in the industry. Therefore, occupational safety training is necessary to ensure the operation of a high-pressure washer is carried out safely and effectively.

B. Where to get occupational safety training for operating a high-pressure washer?

An Toan Nam Viet is a reputable and high-quality occupational safety training center in Vietnam today. With occupational safety training sessions held continuously at production workshops, factories, or construction sites across the country (63 provinces in Vietnam).

To ensure the training is effective, An Toan Nam Viet prepares carefully and meticulously down to the smallest detail. From preparing tools, equipment, teaching aids to curriculum, materials, sound, and lighting.

The occupational safety training instructors at An Toan Nam Viet are experts with many years of experience in the field. They even have research projects identifying hazards in all industries and how to prevent them.

The instructors’ lectures are drawn from practice and conveyed in the most vivid and easy-to-understand way to the workers. These factors help workers feel comfortable during their study time and absorb the teaching knowledge well. Of course, the knowledge conveyed always closely follows Decree 44/2016/ND-CP. From there, they learn many measures to prevent hazards and how to protect themselves. At the same time, they also apply it most appropriately in their actual work.

VIII. The Significance of Occupational Safety in Operating a High-Pressure Washer

A. The importance of maintaining occupational safety in operating a high-pressure washer

Maintaining occupational safety in the operation of a high-pressure washer is extremely important because it affects the health and safety of workers as well as work efficiency. The high pressure of the water from the washer can cause serious hazards if not controlled and used correctly.

First, maintaining occupational safety helps to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries during operation. Workers are trained on how to use the machine safely, including adjusting the pressure and distance from the object to avoid causing injury to themselves and others.

Second, occupational safety also helps to protect equipment and machinery. Using a high-pressure washer without ensuring safety can cause damage or reduce the performance of the machine, leading to higher repair and maintenance costs.

Finally, maintaining occupational safety increases productivity and work quality. When workers feel safe and are properly trained, they can perform their work more effectively and without obstacles due to safety concerns.

B. Important safety measures to know before operating a high-pressure washer

Before operating a high-pressure washer, knowing the safety measures is very important to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. One of the most important measures is to ensure you understand the appropriate pressure and distance when using the machine. The operator needs to know how to adjust the water pressure to suit the specific task without endangering objects or people nearby.

In addition, wearing full personal protective equipment is an important safety measure. Ensure that the operator always wears safety glasses, gloves, and a waterproof gown to protect their skin and eyes from the impact of water pressure and any chemicals that may be used with the washer.

Furthermore, regular inspection and maintenance of the machine are also important safety measures. Before use, the operator needs to check the pressure washer to ensure that all parts are working correctly and there are no technical faults that could pose a danger.

Complete the occupational safety training course to be issued an occupational safety card by the safety training center to complete the required documentation for work.