OSHA requirements for high-pressure washers include the use of a full face protector for water at a pressure greater than 2000 psi to prevent serious eye or head injuries. This is especially important for anyone using a heavy-duty pressure washer. Equipment used by a contractor must also be examined for safety reasons. Make sure that the equipment has not been altered and that it is being used exactly as intended.
In addition, keep up to date with the requirements that OSHA places on equipment configuration. Communicating hazards, controlling hazardous energy, entering confined spaces, personal protective equipment (PPE), falls and ladders, and blood-borne pathogens are some of the topics a contractor can get assistance and training on through OSHA or OSHA certified trainers. The above are functions of OSHA, the advisory body. OSHA also has a compliance arm.
The police write citations and impose fines. By collaborating with the advisory arm of OSHA, a contractor can avoid problems that lead to citations. OSHA consultants will attend an opening conference or a detailed workplace study, perform an evaluation of the safety and health program, monitor employee exposure, as needed, and hold a closing conference. The consultant will inform a business owner about the dangers.
The owner then has 30 days to correct any hazards. By taking advantage of the consultation, a company can obtain a tax credit. Visit the OSHA website for more details. It also provides incentives to be proactive, such as the one cited in the previous paragraph.
For any contractor or business owner who is concerned about obtaining assistance from OSHA, there are a large number of private companies that help businesses comply with OSHA. Just put OSHA compliance in an online search engine to get local leads. Other excellent sources of assistance include professional organizations, such as CETA, PWNA, UAMCC, WJTA-IMCA and IKECA. All organizations offer a variety of safety training sessions and send their members alerts about changes in OSHA regulations or those that are pending approval.
Working with high-pressure washers requires comprehensive operational training, protective equipment and an understanding of hazards. Splash goggles, face protection and hand protection are needed to ensure worker safety. It is the responsibility of workers to refuse to perform work that is not safe. All Cleaner Times readers are linked in some way to the pressure washing industry or to water jet cleaning, whether as manufacturers, distributors, suppliers or contractors.
All people who pressure wash for other people should receive training on hazardous materials for their own safety and that of the people around them.
