Pressure Washing Injuries and How You Can Prevent Them

Just like any other trade, pressure washing comes with its risks. Operating this type of equipment without the proper protective gear can lead to serious, even life-altering, injuries. While pressure washing may seem harmless compared to other industries with heavy machinery, the combination of high PSI and chemical usage makes it a sneakily dangerous industry to work in.

At Spraywell, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable accidents happen when safety isn’t taken seriously. The good news? With the right gear and proper techniques, you can dramatically reduce your risk.

A Real-World Example: Pressure Washing Foot Injury

A recent case study published in Foot & Ankle Surgery: Techniques, Reports & Cases underscores just how dangerous high-pressure injection injuries can be and why prevention is critical.

• Patient: 42-year-old male, otherwise healthy
  
  
• Injury: Accidentally ran a 5000 PSI pressure washer over the top of his foot while working in a water treatment facility
  
  

What looked like a small cut quickly escalated into deep tissue damage, severe infection, and multiple surgeries, including a partial foot amputation. The authors stress that these incidents can often be avoided by wearing protective footwear, using safety shields, and practicing safe spraying techniques.

Even seemingly minor wounds from pressure washers can be limb-threatening. That’s why prioritizing safety gear and proper handling is the best defense.

Operating a Stealth Pressure Washer Safely

Over the years, we’ve noticed that most injuries occur not because of faulty equipment, but because of overlooked safety steps. Here are best practices we recommend when running a Stealth pressure washer:

•  Always wear protective clothing and gear: long pants, steel-toe boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and a respirator when chemicals are in use.
  
  
•  Inspect the unit before use: check for loose bolts, hose cuts, or leaks.
  
  
•  Verify all hoses are properly connected and secured.
  
  
• Use the right nozzle for your application (try our nozzle calculator to make selection easier).
  
  
• Never point the nozzle at yourself, another person, or an animal.
  
  
• Turn the machine off before changing parts or accessories.
  
  

These steps may seem simple, but following them consistently is what separates a safe, efficient operator from one who risks injury on the job.

Why a Respirator Is Essential for SH (Bleach) Application

Sodium hypochlorite (SH, or bleach) is commonly used to kill organic growth during soft washing. While highly effective, it’s also hazardous. Bleach can cause harm to your eyes, lungs, and skin if precautions aren’t taken.

Research shows the danger isn’t just short-term irritation:

• A 20-year Norwegian study of 6,000 people found that regular bleach users had significantly reduced lung function compared to non-users.
  
  
• A French study of 55,000 nurses revealed that weekly use of disinfectants, including bleach, increased the risk of developing COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) by up to 32%. COPD includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which make it difficult to breathe due to narrowed airways.
  
  

For this reason, a respirator is not optional. When purchasing, ensure your respirator and filters are specifically rated for bleach and similar chemicals. Brands like 3M make filters designed to handle chlorine vapors and disinfectant fumes safely.

Final Thoughts

Pressure washers are powerful tools that can build businesses, but they also demand respect. From high-pressure injuries to long-term chemical exposure, the risks are real, yet entirely preventable.

By investing in the right PPE, inspecting your equipment, and applying safe operating techniques, you not only protect yourself but also ensure your business runs without costly downtime from accidents.

At Spraywell, we’re committed to helping contractors get the job done safely, efficiently, and profitably.