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    Hydro Blaster Safety

    Uploaded by

    Michael Huffman
    tool box topic

    Copyright:

    Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
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    Hydro Blaster Safety

    Uploaded by

    Michael Huffman
    145 views3 pages
    tool box topic

    Copyright

    © Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)

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    tool box topic

    Copyright:

    Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    145 views3 pages

    Hydro Blaster Safety

    Uploaded by

    Michael Huffman
    tool box topic

    Copyright:

    Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
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    TOOLBOX TOPICS

    Company Name __________________________ Job Name


    __________________________ Date________

    HYDRO BLASTER SAFETY

    High pressure water cleaning has become more common over the past few years,
    often replacing the need for sand blasting. The uses of hydro blasters vary from
    paint and grease removal, tank cleaning and log debarking, to of heat exchangers
    and cleaning of sidewalks.

    Although hydro blasters are fairly simple to operate, they can be dangerous if not
    properly used. A pump is used to increase the water pressure to 10,000 psi, with
    larger units capable of 45,000 psi or more. This pressurized water is pumped
    through a flexible steel braided hose and discharged through a pipe called a lance
    which has an orifice at the end. The water jets, which exit the orifice, act much like
    a band saw, and this cutting action is the main hazard. This high pressure water can
    cut through boots, gloves, aprons and any other protective clothing in a fraction of
    a second. If the jets cut into your foot or hand, it could result in amputation or other
    severe injury; or the cleaning solution may be injected into your blood stream,
    which could be fatal.

    In spite of this hazard, hydro blasters can be operated safely if proper procedures
    are followed. No one should operate this equipment without training and proper
    equipment.
    Personal protective equipment is essential, including a full face shield, hard hat,
    rain suit, rubber boots with steel toes and metatarsal guards, waterproof gloves and
    hearing protection.

    Dead man switches/triggers must never be taped, tied, or otherwise altered so the
    equipment stays in the "on" position. If the lance is dropped it will whip about
    wildly, causing serious injuries.

    The lance should be a minimum of 36" long to keep the operator from pointing it
    at himself.

    Horseplay could have very serious consequences - never point a lance at other
    employees.

    If possible, only clean water should be used. Raw water may contain small
    quantities of nitrogen, ammonia, or chlorine which could be deadly if vaporized in
    a confined space.

    When laying hoses, handle them with care. Also, check each hose to be sure it is
    marked with the manufacturer's symbol, a serial number, and the maximum
    operating pressure. Pad the hose at sharp corners or suspend it where necessary.

    Fittings are particularly susceptible to thread wear and wrench damage. Examine
    all hoses and fittings for defects frequently, and replace if worn.

    Operating a hydro blaster can be done safely if these few simple precautions are
    kept in mind. Think about it the next time you do any high pressure cleaning. If
    you do not know how to operate the equipment, or do not understand correct
    procedures, ask your supervisor.

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