»
»
Heat Exchanger Maintenance
Hands are highly exposed – proper protection is essential to prevent severe injury.
uncontrolled or nearly invisible jets, exposing operators with little or no warning. Wet surfaces and overspray increase the risk of slips and falls, while reaction forces from the lance can affect balance and stability. Environmental conditions also influence exposure. Hot environments, physical exertion and heavy gear increase the risk of heat stress and dehydration.
PPE as the final barrier against severe injury In high-pressure water jet operations, PPE represents the final line of defence when technical and organisational measures cannot fully eliminate risk. Even experienced and well-trained operators remain exposed to potentially life-altering injuries. Protection must cover the exposed body areas and remain correctly positioned during movement, bending and tool handling. Within the EU, the design, testing, and certification of all personal protective equipment( PPE) are governed by Regulation( EU) 2016 / 425. The regulation classifies PPE into different risk categories based on the severity of the hazards they are intended to protect against. Category III represents the highest risk level and covers hazards that may result in death or irreversible injury. PPE in this category must undergo EU type examination by a Notified Body and be subject to ongoing production surveillance. High-pressure water jets fall within this category. According to the European Commission’ s official Guide to the application of Regulation( EU)
Head, hearing and eye protection are critical.
2016 / 425, high-pressure jets are defined as water pressures starting from 200 bar( 2,900 psi) and above. Certified PPE must carry the CE-marking and be supported by a valid Declaration of Conformity referencing the relevant EU type examination certificate. Employer responsibilities are defined in EU occupational health and safety legislation. Directive 89 / 391 / EEC requires documented risk assessment and risk reduction at source wherever possible. Directive 89 / 656 / EEC mandates the provision of appropriate PPE where residual risks remain, supported by information, instruction and training. PPE does not replace engineering or organisational controls, but it is mandatory when exposure cannot be fully eliminated – like in water jetting operations. The enforcement of employers’ obligations under Directives 89 / 391 / EEC and 89 / 656 / EEC is carried out by national labour inspectorates or occupational safety and health authorities, which are empowered to inspect workplaces, review risk assessments, and, where necessary, impose corrective measures, prohibitions, or sanctions in accordance with national law. Failure to provide appropriate and EU-compliant PPE, in line with applicable requirements such as CE marking under Regulation( EU) 2016 / 425, may constitute a breach of national legislation implementing these directives and may result in enforcement actions and legal liability for the employer. www. heat-exchanger-world. com Heat Exchanger World May 2026
35