Written by Chad Robinson, Service & Hire Manager at SprayPlant
Cutting Corners Has Consequences
At this time of year, as the temperatures drop and the darker nights draw in, we can often feel tired and be tempted to cut corners. That’s why it’s so important that we take even more care, as we prepare for our day of spraying.
Every day on the job starts with one crucial goal, to go home safe and healthy.
For spray machine operators, a solid morning safety routine can mean the difference between a productive day and a trip to the hospital.
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to the ideal morning routine to help prevent injection injuries and other accidents.
1. Start With a Visual Check
Before anything else, walk around your spray unit and look for:
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Leaks or drips around fittings and hoses
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Cracks, swelling, or wear on hose surfaces
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Loose or missing guards and safety covers
If anything looks off, don’t start the machine until it’s been repaired or inspected.
A small leak under pressure can be deadly, especially if it results in fluid injection. (Please refer to point 3 for more information on this).
2. Keep the Spray Gun on SAFETY!
Before touching any part of the gun or hose:
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Engage the safety lock on the spray gun
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Point it in a safe direction (never at yourself or anyone else)
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Make sure the trigger is not stuck or jammed
Even when the machine is off, residual pressure can still be trapped inside the line.
Keeping the gun on safety is your first defence against accidental discharge.
3. Check the General Pressure
Never assume the system is depressurised. Before disconnecting or cleaning:
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Follow the manufacturer’s steps to fully release system pressure
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Use the pressure relief valve if fitted
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Confirm gauges are reading zero
Remember:
It only takes a pin-prick sized jet of fluid to inject through skin.
If a spray penetrates your skin, even a small spot go to hospital immediately.
Do NOT wait to see if it improves. Injection injuries can cause serious internal damage in minutes. We know operators who have lost fingers and even limbs because they haven’t sought help straight away.
4. Inspect the Hoses (Top to Bottom)
On petrol spray machines, pay extra attention to hose routing:
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Make sure the hose isn't near any hot surfaces such as the exhaust. Run the hose down low away from any hot parts of the engine and moving parts.
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Avoid sharp bends or kinks pressure buildup weakens the hose
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Replace hoses that show wear, cracking, or softness
A damaged hose under high pressure can whip or burst, spraying fluid at extreme speed. It’s better to replace a suspect hose than risk your safety.
5. Wear the Correct PPE
Before powering up:
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Wear your PPE: gloves, face shield, eye protection, overalls, and boots (when required)
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Keep sleeves down and gloves tight to avoid snags
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Make sure no loose clothing is near the spray area
Good PPE won’t stop a high-pressure injection but it can protect you from splashes, burns, and flying debris.
6. Final System Test
After your checks:
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Start at low pressure first
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Watch and listen for leaks, hissing, or vibration
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Never use your hand to test for leaks
If everything looks and sounds right, you’re clear to work.
Key Takeaways
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Always keep the gun on safety when not spraying
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Check hoses and fittings every morning
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Never test leaks with your hand
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Go straight to hospital for any fluid injection injury — no matter how small
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Stay alert and treat every pressurized system with respect
A few extra minutes spent on your morning routine can prevent life-changing injuries.
Remember: Safety first, every single day.
If you require any advice, speak to our team today. We can arrange training for company employees.
Chad Robinson is the Service & Hire Manager at SprayPlant, with deep expertise in spray gun systems, maintenance, and equipment rental. He works closely with customers to ensure they get the best performance from their kit—whether buying or hiring.