High pressure water jetting clears drains fast, but the same force that cuts through blockages can cause serious injury. Water from a jetter can penetrate skin, and sewer lines carry bacteria that can cause severe illness.
The right personal protective equipment (PPE) is your last line of defence. Here’s what every jetter operator should wear, based on the guidance in the Enviroline Sewerjett operator’s manual.
PPE is the last line of defence, not the first
PPE doesn’t replace safe work practices. Before every job, complete a site risk assessment. Barricade the work area and put up “Caution – High Pressure Water Jetting in Progress” signage. Make sure every operator is trained.
PPE should be worn where hazards can’t be fully controlled in other ways, and operators should be trained in how to use and maintain it.
Eye and face protection
Eye protection complying with AS/NZS 1337 should be worn at all times near water jetting operations. Where liquids could cause eye damage, wear a full-face visor and goggles. Splash-back from drains can carry debris and contaminated water straight towards your face.
Hand protection
High pressure water can penetrate the skin and contaminate the bloodstream. Wear heavy-duty gloves complying with AS/NZS 2161.3 or AS/NZS 2161.5 whenever there’s a risk of injury. Gloves also protect against bacteria when handling hose that’s been through a sewer line.
Foot and lower leg protection
Wear protective footwear complying with AS/NZS 2210.3, with non-slip soles for wet surfaces. Where there’s a risk of foot or leg injury, use a foot and lower leg guard made from material that can withstand the direct force of the water jet.
Body protection
Wear suitable waterproof clothing complying with AS 3765.1 or AS 3765.2, depending on the job. Where there’s a risk of the jet striking the body, use leg and body armour designed to withstand it. Long sleeves, overalls and high-vis clothing are also recommended.
Hearing protection
Jetter engines are loud, and long days add up. Wear hearing protection complying with AS/NZS 1269.3 when noise levels exceed regulatory limits.
Head protection
Where there’s a risk of head injury, such as working near overhead hazards or in pits, wear head protection complying with AS/NZS 1801.
Hygiene after the job
Sewer work exposes you to bacteria and micro-organisms that can cause serious illness. After working with sewer lines, wash your arms, hands and any exposed skin with hot, soapy water. Adding disinfectant gives extra protection.
Carry a medical alert card
A water jet injury can look minor, sometimes just a small hole in the skin, while causing serious damage underneath. Every operator should carry a waterproof medical alert card explaining the nature of high pressure water injuries, so medical staff know how to treat them. If water has penetrated, or appears to have penetrated, the skin, seek medical help immediately.
You can download a printable safety card from enviroline.net.au/downloads.
Safe jetting starts with the right gear
Enviroline supplies Sewerjett water jetters and drain cleaning equipment to plumbers and drainers across Australia. Every machine comes with a detailed operator’s manual covering safe operation, PPE and maintenance.
Browse our pipe maintenance range or contact our team for advice on safe jetting setups.