Every sewer equipment operator must have a solid grasp on line cleaning technologies, tools and techniques for safely jetting, vacuuming and maintaining their sewer cleaning truck. Keep reading to better understand the importance of safety and knowing your work environment before starting your next sewer cleaning job.Â
Safe Sewer Cleaning Starts with Understanding Your Environment
Being aware of your surroundings is vitally important any time you are using heavy equipment, including our Vactor sewer cleaners.
Survey the terrain of your work site, and know that weight will shift on the sewer cleaner as water is used and debris is collected. Consider vehicular traffic in the surrounding area and carefully look for obstructions above your sewer cleaning truck, like power lines. As you clean, listen and look carefully to be sure everything is working properly.Â
Wear Personal Protective EquipmentÂ
Protect yourself from hazards on the job by wearing the right kind of personal protective equipment (PPE). Depending on your specific job, your PPE might include hearing protection, a reflective safety vest, protective foot and hand wear, safety glasses with side shields and a hard hat.Â
Respect Air ConveyanceÂ
Consider this: an 8-inch opening at 15-inches Hg vacuum equals 350 pounds of force. You cannot escape a pull of 350 pounds.Â
Remember that air movement can pull your limbs and loose clothing in until it creates a strong seal. When that occurs, vacuum will rapidly build, drawing blood to your limb, which leads to compartment syndrome.Â
Protect the HoseÂ
When using a water setter, protect your hose to work safely! Always inspect your hose before working, checking for exposed reinforcements, shrinking hose size, bubbles or blisters, kinking or collapsing, movement in fittings and fittings that are cutting into the hose. If you notice any issues, repair them immediately. Never, ever, operate with a damaged hose. Contact our service team today if you need help diagnosing or fixing a hose issue!Â
