Health & Safety Policy for Jet Washing Services

Policy Statement: Our gardening company is committed to delivering professional jet washing services and related pressure cleaning for gardens, patios, driveways and decking while protecting the health and safety of staff, clients and the public. This Jet Washing Services health and safety policy sets out safe working standards for power washing and pressure washing operations, emphasising risk reduction, proper equipment use and environmental care. All operatives must follow these requirements to ensure consistent, safe service delivery across all sites.

We recognise that jet wash and pressure cleaning work presents hazards including high-pressure water, chemical cleaners, manual handling and slips on wet surfaces. The objective of this policy is to identify hazards, outline controls and ensure everyone involved in jet-wash or power-wash activities understands their responsibilities. Managers will ensure that written safe systems of work are in place, that risk assessments are completed before work starts and that controls are implemented proportionately to the risk.

Before starting any pressure washing task the site must be assessed and prepared. Controls include:

• Clear exclusion zones and signage to protect pedestrians and pets.
• Appropriate PPE — waterproof clothing, gloves, eye protection and non-slip footwear.
• Correct pressure settings and nozzles for surfaces like stone, wood, and concrete.

These measures reduce injury and damage, and help maintain the tidy appearance expected of a gardening company offering jet washing solutions.

Roles, Training and Competence

Managers and supervisors must ensure that every operative receives training relevant to jet washing, pressure cleaning and chemical handling. Training includes safe equipment operation, electrical safety for pressure washers, use of Residual Current Devices, and traffic or pedestrian management on site. Records of competence, maintenance and inspections must be kept. Contractors and subcontractors engaged for high-pressure cleaning must be evaluated and managed according to the same standards as direct staff.

Operatives are required to follow instructions, report defects or near misses and use issued PPE at all times. Routine toolbox talks should cover seasonal considerations — for example, frost, algae growth or pollen can alter slip risks. Staff should be trained in selecting the right cleaning method: low-pressure soft washing for delicate garden features versus high-pressure jet washing for robust paving, ensuring the right technique protects surfaces and plants.

Equipment management is central to safe jet washing. All pressure washers, hoses and fittings must be inspected before use, tagged where required and maintained according to manufacturer guidance. Pressure settings must be adjusted to the task and recorded where necessary. Electrical leads must be kept dry and secured; generators and petrol engines must be sited to minimise fumes and fire risk. If chemical detergents are used, material safety data sheets (MSDS) or safety data sheets should be available and followed.

Operational Controls and Emergency Procedures

Site setup must prioritise safety: cordon work areas, use cones or barriers, and protect soft landscaping with mats or boards where traffic could damage turf or planting. Control of run-off is essential in gardens — use containment measures to avoid sensitive plants, garden ponds, or drains being affected by detergents or dislodged debris. Where possible, use eco-friendly cleaning agents and practice containment to prevent pollution.

Emergency procedures must be understood by all staff. First aid provision, fire extinguishers and communication plans should be confirmed on arrival. In the event of an incident, stop work immediately, secure the area and provide first aid. Report and record incidents and near-misses to allow review and improvement of jet washing procedures. Where electrical hazards occur, isolate power sources before attending to injuries and contact the appropriate emergency services when needed.

Monitoring and continual improvement underpin this policy. Regular audits, maintenance records and refresher training ensure that our jet washing and pressure cleaning services remain safe and effective for garden maintenance, commercial grounds care and domestic external cleaning. This policy is supported by practical controls, clear responsibilities and an ongoing commitment to reduce risk while delivering high-quality jet washing services as part of our broader gardening and grounds maintenance offering.