Health and Safety Policy for Jet Washing Services

Scope and purpose: This policy outlines the health and safety arrangements for all jet washing and pressure washing work carried out by our gardening and landscape maintenance teams. It applies to all operatives, supervisors and subcontractors providing exterior cleaning, patio and driveway revitalisation, decking restoration and related high-pressure cleaning services across our service area.

Commitment to safety

We are committed to ensuring a safe working environment through risk assessment, safe systems of work and ongoing training. Our approach to power wash operations emphasises hazard control, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and protection of clients, the public and the environment.

Responsibilities

All staff must follow this policy. Management will provide resources for safe equipment, maintenance and training. Operatives are expected to report hazards, use controls, and verify they understand instructions before starting any pressure cleaning or jet wash task.

Before each job we conduct and record a site-specific risk assessment that identifies risks such as surface contamination, slippery materials, electrical hazards, fragile structures, vehicular access and proximity to pedestrians. The assessment informs control measures for chemical use, run-off management and noise reduction during exterior cleaning.

Safe systems include clear exclusion zones, signage, and the use of barriers where needed. When conducting high-pressure cleaning near landscaping features or planting beds, operatives will protect sensitive areas with covers and use lower pressure or soft-wash techniques to prevent plant and soil damage.

Equipment and maintenance: All pressure washers, surface cleaners, nozzles and associated tools are inspected daily and serviced regularly. Faulty units are removed from service. Fuel and electrical systems are handled with safe refuelling and isolation procedures, and extension leads and generators are sited to avoid trip and electrical hazards.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory for all operatives: pressure-resistant gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, non-slip safety boots and appropriate waterproof clothing. For chemical cleaning we require chemical-resistant gloves and eye shields. PPE selection is based on the risk assessment and is enforced on-site.

Manual handling and ergonomics: Jet washing often involves moving heavy equipment, hoses and cleaning materials. Staff are trained in manual handling techniques, use of trolleys and lifting aids, and planning work to minimise repetitive strain and awkward postures during long cleaning operations.

Environmental and spill control measures are in place to prevent contamination of drains, flower beds and watercourses. Where detergents or biocides are used we select products with lower environmental impact, dilute to necessary concentrations and prevent run-off into storm drains. Wastewater management and responsible disposal of residues are integral to our procedures.

Emergency procedures are established for first aid, chemical splashes and equipment incidents. First aid kits are available on every vehicle, and at least one trained first aider is on site for larger jobs. In the event of an incident, operatives will secure the area, apply immediate first aid and escalate to emergency services if required.

Training and competence: Staff receive formal training in safe jet washing techniques, chemical handling, and electricity awareness. Competence is assessed through supervised work and periodic refresher sessions. New operatives are paired with experienced staff until competence is demonstrated.

Operational controls and client awareness: We communicate safety requirements to clients and occupants before work begins, including temporary access restrictions and advice on plant protection. Our teams coordinate with site contacts to reduce disruption and to ensure vulnerable features in gardens and landscapes are safeguarded during pressure cleaning.

Monitoring and review

Health and safety performance is reviewed regularly through toolbox talks, incident reporting and inspections. Corrective actions are implemented promptly following any near-miss, accident or complaint related to our pressure cleaning services. We maintain records of assessments, training and maintenance to support continuous improvement.

Key control checklist

• Site risk assessment completed and reviewed
• PPE provided and used correctly
• Equipment daily checks and logged servicing
• Exclusion zones and clear signage in place
• Environmental controls to prevent run-off
• Competent operatives and documented training

In summary, this policy sets out practical, enforceable measures to manage the hazards associated with jet washing, pressure washing and related garden cleaning services. By following these standards we protect staff, clients and the environment while delivering effective exterior cleaning for patios, driveways, decking and hard landscaping. The policy is reviewed periodically to reflect operational experience and changes to best practice in the field of outdoor cleaning and garden maintenance.