WJA Awards – Jeff wins outstanding achievement accolade for cracking the code
After more than 30 years of dedicated service to the Water Jetting Association, Jeff Haigh believes his latest contribution has been the best and most satisfying.
The WJA Board commissioned him to work with WJA Technical Manager Gordon Taylor to create the new WJA Code of Practice – turning three codes into one.
In spring 2026, after months of hard work, the new code of practice – known as the WJA Black Code thanks to its black cover was launched.
As a result of Jeff’s contribution to the WJA’s development of water jetting standards, and the WJA Black Code in particular, he was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award at the WJA Awards 2026.
Single Code of Practice – proudest achievement
Jeff says: “I was gobsmacked. I never saw it coming. It was a wonderful surprise.”
In fact, he believed he had been asked to make sure he attended the inaugural WJA Awards, held on the evening of the WJA AGM on 18th September, because he had submitted a picture for the Best Photo Award.
“I was tricked,” he laughs. “But in a very nice way. To be recognised by my peers, by people I respect, and have worked with for many years, is very special.”
After many years’ of sitting on WJA committees and the WJA Council – now replaced by the WJA Board – Jeff is in no doubt that collaborating with Gordon Taylor to create the new single code of practice has been his most pleasing achievement and a fitting swansong.
They expertly and painstakingly merged the WJA Blue Code for high and ultra-high water jetting, the Red Code for drain and sewer water jetting, and the Purple Code for Pressure Washers.
‘We thought it may not be possible’ – single code
In doing so, they created a single, simplified, integrated, updated, more usable and, ultimately, more powerful set of water jetting standards.
“When we first considered creating a single code, we thought it might not be possible, because there were so many differences across water jetting pressures,” recalls Jeff.
“But the more we looked, the more we could see how we could identify the elements that applied across all pressures. Then we could set out
separate sections to address practices unique to different pressure bands and water jetting practices.
“This connecting thread through the WJA Black Code is so useful, because it helps contractors maintain standards as they develop services using different water jetting techniques at different pressures.”
Jeff Haigh – a ‘legend in the WJA’
Jeff had played a pivotal role in developing all the previous three WJA codes of practice, which made him the perfect person to work on new single code of practice, says WJA Chairman Lee O’Callaghan.
“Jeff is a legend in the WJA,” he says. “His technical knowledge is second to none. His desire to push for the highest water jetting standards always shines brightly. We’re so pleased we had the chance to present him with it.”
Gordon Taylor says: “Jeff has made an outstanding contribution to the association over many years, generously giving his time, expertise, and energy to support me, our members, and the wider industry.
“His commitment to the Purple Code, his work updating the other codes, and his collaboration on the new single Black Code of Practice, have strengthened standards, encouraged collaboration, and promoted best practice across the sector.
“His dedication, professionalism, friendship, and willingness to share his knowledge have made a lasting impact on the association and on me. This award is a fitting recognition of the respect and appreciation he has earned from many of his peers across the water jetting industry.”
Determined to serve water jetting
Jeff joined the Royal Navy aged 16, trained to become a marine engineer, and served on both surface warships and diesel-powered submarines for 10 years.
He then worked for 11 years in the Middle East as an engineer, leading projects at airports, docks and defence establishments, before returning to the UK.
Jeff’s first job in the water jetting industry was as a pump repair engineer at Flowplant. Then, in 1991, he set up his first water jetting business, Grime Blasters, providing industrial cleaning services.
In 1992, he became actively involved with the WJA, as a member of its technical committee, then the commercial committee and the WJA Council, serving as WJA President for three years.
During this time, he moved into delivering hydrodemolition services, setting up a new business, Hydro Pump, which grew to operate 12 pumps and employ 24 people, before he wound down the company and retired in 2018.
Jeff is proud of the WJA’s achievements and is certain the association’s positive role in developing water jetting in the UK and internationally is assured.
WJA’s positive impact accelerating
He explains: “For years, the WJA’s codes of practice have been recognised as setting the standard for our industry in the UK, including by the HSE, and in many countries around the world. The WJA Black Code will continue and, I think, strengthen that convention.
“The same can be said for WJA water jetting training courses, and now the stand-alone courses we’ve developed. What makes the WJA a success is that we don’t stand still, and we’ve accelerated that process of positive change just in the last couple of years.”
Jeff is in no doubt that improving safety has been the WJA’s biggest achievement and will remain its number one goal: “The WJA has had a central role in most big advances in safety, like the use of shrouds and other hose safety systems and the development and adoption of PPE.
“The current WJA Board is determined that will continue. Its members clearly have the expertise and talent to make it happen and improve our industry. I believe water jetting is in safe hands.”
Find out more about WJA membership
Joining the WJA is quick and easy. Options include free membership for water jetting service users.
All the information you need about the advantages of being a WJA member is here
Telephone: +44 (0) 208 320 1090 Email: info@waterjetting.org.uk
