Pressure Washer Safety: The Essentials

Never point the wand at a person or animal

High-pressure water can cut skin and inject water and debris under it. Treat any injection wound as a medical emergency even if it looks minor, and seek care immediately.

Protect your eyes, ears and feet

Wear safety glasses rated ANSI Z87.1, closed-toe non-slip footwear, and hearing protection with gas machines.

Gas engines: outdoors only

Exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is odorless and can kill. Never run a gas washer in a garage, basement, shed or near open windows, and keep it well clear of doors and vents.

Electricity and water

Use a GFCI-protected outlet, keep plugs and connections dry, and never spray toward power lines, outlets or light fixtures.

Avoid ladders

Recoil can knock you off balance. Use an extension wand from the ground instead.

Relieve pressure before changing tips

Turn the machine off and squeeze the trigger to release stored pressure before swapping nozzles or disconnecting hoses. Engage the trigger lock whenever you’re not spraying.

Recommended safety gear