Water jetting is a water pressure cleaning method that uses very high water pressure to clean materials and surfaces. It is more dangerous and industrial than other water cleaning systems due to the high pressure (psi).
Wastewater from pressure cleaning is a prescribed water contaminant under Schedule 10 of the Environmental Protection Regulation 2014, which means wastewater from pressure cleaning is a water contaminant that must not enter roadside gutters or stormwater systems. Wastewater from pressure cleaning that enters gutters ends up in local waterways and can have an impact on the Great Barrier Reef.
Section 440ZG of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 states that it is unlawful for a person to allow wastewater from pressure cleaning to enter the roadside gutters and stormwater systems, and significant fines apply.
Pressure Washing Safely
- Disconnect downpipes and redirect wastewater to the garden or a holding tank for disposal by a licensed liquid waste disposal contractor.
- If disconnecting downpipes is not possible, block the downpipe and feed the wastewater onto lawns or gardens. A hole may be drilled in the gutter, downpipes blocked and water diverted to garden beds. When complete, plug the hole with a grommet.
- Protect stormwater drains using sandbags or a portable bund (a barrier to contain water) in the roadside gutter. Remove captured wastewater using a vacuum or bilge pump to direct to lawns or gardens, making sure no wastewater flows into stormwater drain.
- Do not use water pressure cleaner to clean windows or asbestos contaminated materials.
More Information
