8 big advantages of the new WJA Code of Practice
The Water Jetting Association (WJA) consistently aims to deliver the highest standards of health and safety guidance for the water jetting industry.
It has now taken a big step forward in this purpose with the launch of a new single code of practice.
The WJA Black Code, named for its distinctive black cover, unifies the WJA’s three previous codes: the Blue Code for high and ultra-high pressure water jetting, the Red Code for water jetting in sewers and drains, and the Purple Code for pressure washers.
It establishes, for the first time, one comprehensive, easy-to-follow and authoritative set of standards for the entire water jetting industry.
The single code will better support the development of robust safe systems of work, risk assessments, and method statements, serving as an essential foundation for creating a safer working environment.
It can be used by safety professionals and service users, as well by contractors and their operational teams, so everyone involved in water jetting can contribute to safe practices.
So, what are the benefits of the WJA’s single code of practice? Here are 8 big advantages of having one set of standards covering all water jetting pressures.
1. The new single code brings water jetting standards up to date
The WJA Black Code has been developed over six months by the association’s experts, who began by ensuring that all guidance is fully current.
This process provided the ideal opportunity to review every aspect of the three previous codes, add new details, and remove any outdated or unnecessary content. As a result, the WJA Black Code is entirely relevant to today’s water jetting needs.
2. It’s easier to compare control measures for different pressures and techniques
Having guidance on water jetting pressures from the lowest to the highest in one code of practice makes it easier to see the connections and the differences between water jetting techniques.
This helps contractors and service users see how safe systems of work have to change depending on what water pressures are being used and tasks being carried out.
3. The single code is easier to search – with all information in one place
It is easier to look up water jetting guidance in one code of practice than in three separate ones. This is especially the case when it is viewed in the WPA App. It allows water jetting operatives to carry out quick searches, including on worksites, to make sure actions are compliant and safe.
4. Creating the single code has allowed new information to be added
At 149 pages, the WJA Black Code is the largest WJA code of practice to date. However, because guidance repetition has been removed, it is shorter than the previous three codes combined.
This has made room for useful extra advice, including more information about training, water jetting first aid, water jetting pressures and the use of personal protective equipment.
5. The new single code shows best practice as well as explains it
The WJA has taken this opportunity to update and expand the illustrations in the new single code, recognising that visual examples often communicate best practices more effectively than words alone.
The code now features illustrations covering hose assemblies, drainage networks, and the safe setup of water jetting systems, among others. It also includes a page-by-page guide to the WJA’s water jetting injury treatment algorithm, offering life-saving advice in an accessible visual format.
6. It is easier for contractors to develop safe systems of work for new services
Water jetting contractors frequently seek to expand their range of services. The new WJA Black Code supports this by providing integrated guidance that ensures compliance across various water jetting techniques, making it simpler for contractors to develop safe systems of work when introducing new services
7. Service users can more easily make sure water jetting services comply with WJA standards
The new single code of practice creates clarity about water jetting best practice. It means service users can use the WJA Black Code to check the standards of their suppliers. They can also use the code to define the standards they expect when procuring services.
8. The HSE recognises the new single WJA Code of Practice as defining industry best practice
The Health and Safety Executive has advised on the development of the new single code and will refer to it as industry best practice when carrying out its investigations. This gives water jetting contractors a strong incentive to follow its guidance.
Find out more
Go to our dedicated web page to learn more about the WJA Code of Practice.
WJA members get free access to the WJA code of practice via the WJA App. Find out more about WJA membership.
Candidates who achieve operational certification through the WJA’s City & Guilds-accredited water jetting training programme gain access to the code of practice via the WJA App.
Find out more about WJA water jetting training.