Pressure Washer Safety

Pressure washers are powerful machines that can cause serious injury or property damage if used incorrectly. Before operating any pressure washer, take a few minutes to understand the risks and follow basic safety precautions.

Protect Your Eyes

Always wear approved safety glasses or a face shield. High-pressure water can propel stones, dirt, timber splinters and other debris at high speed, potentially causing serious eye injuries.

Protect Your Hearing

Petrol-powered pressure washers can produce noise levels that may damage your hearing during extended use. Wear suitable hearing protection whenever operating loud equipment.

High-Pressure Injection Injuries

Never point a pressure washer at yourself, another person or an animal.

High-pressure water can penetrate the skin, causing a serious injection injury that may appear minor at first but requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect a high-pressure injection injury, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

Electrical Safety

When using electric pressure washers:

• Inspect power leads before use.

• Use a safety switch (RCD) where possible.

• Keep electrical connections dry.

• Never operate electrical equipment while standing in water.

• Avoid using damaged extension leads or power outlets.

Electricity and water are a dangerous combination. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Asbestos Warning

Never pressure clean surfaces that may contain asbestos.

High-pressure water can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air, creating a significant health risk.

If your home or building was constructed before asbestos products were phased out in Australia, seek professional advice before cleaning roofing, fencing, wall cladding or other suspect materials.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Before you begin cleaning:

• Move vehicles away from the work area.

• Remove outdoor furniture and fragile items.

• Close nearby windows and doors.

• Protect electrical equipment and power outlets.

• Be aware of overspray that could affect neighbouring properties.

Keep Children and Pets Away

Pressure cleaning equipment should only be operated by competent adults.

Keep children, pets and bystanders well away from the work area while the machine is operating.

Working at Heights

Avoid using ladders while operating a pressure washer.

The force generated by the spray gun can affect your balance and increase the risk of falls. Where elevated work is required, consider using extension lances or engaging a professional contractor.

Choose the Right Pressure

Using too much pressure can permanently damage:

• Painted surfaces

• Timber decks

• Render

• Soft stone

• Roof tiles

• Window seals

• Outdoor furniture

Always begin with the lowest effective pressure and test a small, inconspicuous area first.

Use the Correct Protective Equipment

Depending on the job, consider wearing:

• Safety glasses or a face shield

• Hearing protection

• Waterproof gloves

• Non-slip footwear

• Long pants and long sleeves

Personal protective equipment helps reduce the risk of injury from flying debris, chemicals and high-pressure water.

Know When to Call a Professional

Some jobs are better left to experienced professionals, particularly:

• Roof cleaning

• Multi-storey buildings

• Suspected asbestos-containing materials

• Large commercial or industrial cleaning

• Heavy oil or chemical contamination

• Jobs requiring specialised equipment or safety controls

If you're unsure whether a job is suitable for DIY pressure cleaning, it's always safer to seek professional advice before you begin.