JETTER SAFETY USING HIGH-PRESSURE WATER JETTER SYSTEMS

General Safety Guidelines

While a high-pressure water jetter system can be an effective and efficient tool for plumbers and drainers, it also carries some safety risks that should be taken seriously. Here are some safety tips for operators to help minimise the risks associated with using water jetting equipment for plumbing and drain cleaning purposes:

1. Appropriate training on how to use the water jetter is necessary to prevent accidents. Users should be trained In understanding the hazards involved, operating the machine, and being familiar with safety precautions.

2. Before starting any water jetting work, a risk assessment should be conducted to identify potential hazards and assess the risks associated with the work. The risk assessment should consider factors such as the location, type of equipment, and any potential interactions with other people or equipment.

3. Pre-work preparation: The work area should be adequately prepared before the start of water jetting work. This includes removing debris, ensuring that bystanders are a safe distance away, and identifying any other hazards.

4. Personal protective equipment should be worn by all personnel involved in water jetting work such as gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Clothing should be snug-fitting to prevent entanglement in moving parts.

5. Before use, the water jetting equipment should be inspected to ensure that all components are in good working order, and any worn or damaged parts should be replaced before use.

6. The operator should maintain a safe distance from the nozzle and the work area, keeping at least two meters away from the water jetting equipment.

7. The water jetting equipment should be operated at a pressure that is appropriate for the specific application and within the manufacturer’s recommended pressure range.

8. The appropriate nozzle should be selected for the specific application, and operators should be trained on the proper use of nozzles to avoid injury or damage to equipment.

9. Clear communication should be maintained between the operator and any other personnel involved in the work, including spotters, supervisors, or other contractors working in the area.

10. Electrical safety guidelines should be followed if the water jetting equipment is powered by electricity, including grounding the equipment and using a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

11. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation and maintenance of the water jetter.

Why You Need Class B Jetter Training

Did you know that anyone using Class B Jetter equipment must be certified through a registered training organisation that delivers the following skill set: MSMSS00019 – Operate a Drain Cleaning System?

This is a nationally recognised course designed for people who operate drain cleaning equipment. Participants will develop the skills and knowledge to operate a drain cleaning system, which may be used to clean, unblock, or remove debris from a closed drain or open channel drainage system. It includes the skills to operate drain cleaning equipment independently and in a safe manner.

This course is delivered in accordance with AS4233.1:2013 High Pressure Water Jetting Systems Safe Operation and Maintenance and the National Code of Conduct – Guide for managing risks from High Pressure Water Jetting. AS 4233:1:2013 highlights that all operators of a Class B drain cleaning machine must be trained.

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be issued a nationally recognised statement of attainment of the MSMSS00019 Operate a Drain Cleaning System Skill Set. The following units are a part of this skill set:

• MSMWJ305 – Operate a drain cleaning system

• MSMPER200 – Work in accordance with an issued permit

• MSMWHS200 – Work safely

• MSMWHS110 – Follow emergency response procedures

There is more information coming about the above skill set and classes scheduled in the coming months. For questions about jetter safety and training, contact the MPAQ Training Services team on 07 3273 0800.

Written by Tracy Bob, MPAQ Training Services Manager

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All kids should be able to follow their dreams and be the best they can be. No matter what life throws at them. No matter what their ability.

Each year, thousands of kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability, get support from Variety – the Children’s Charity when they need it most. With a vision for all Australian children to attain their full potential, regardless of ability or background, this important charity will be working with MPAQ to ensure no child is left behind.

Find out more at www.variety.org.au

Find Out More

Vale Don Staines

5 July 1942 – 27 December 2022

Don had many interests and was always on the go with something. After Don and his wife Margaret moved to Rotary Gardens Village in August 2020, he spent a lot of time tending to his many orchids and caring for the garden. He was blessed to have a large room under the back of their home where he kept his metal lathe and many other tools as well as other collections.

He enjoyed his plumbing career, which he was involved in from the age of 15, and even in later years, he would respond to the needs of clients who had become good friends.

Don had a number of chronic health conditions to deal with but always kept a bright spirit and came through the difficult times with a beautiful positive spirit. His family and friends have been left with great memories of life with Don and will always miss him, but they said that they know he had great faith in God and has now joined his parents and siblings in eternity with his Lord.

MPAQ extends our deepest sympathies to Margaret and Don’s family and friends.