Ask the Drain Brains: 10 Drain Cleaning Machine Safety Tips You Should Know

Ask the Drain Brains
By Marty Silverman
General Pipe Cleaners

Q: We’re new to owning our own drain cleaning equipment. What tips can you give us for safe operation of our machines?

A: I’m glad you asked. Drain cleaning can be profitable and risk-free if you follow some simple safety precautions.

1. Wear only leather gloves. Never wear rubber gloves.
2. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
3. Don’t grasp the cable while it’s spinning. You could lose a finger.
4. Checked for damaged power cords before you start.
5. Be sure the machine is plugged into a properly grounded outlet.
6. Operate the machine within two feet of the drain opening to prevent cable whipping.
7. Don’t force the cable through the blockage. Let the cutter do the work.
8. Make sure your machine has a belt guard in place.
9. Read and understand the operating instructions.
10. Use common sense.

No matter what safety features a machine has, no machine is safer that its operator. Make sure you and your personnel are well versed in the proper safety procedures for your machine.

Does operating a drain cleaning machine have to be dangerous? No. Just like driving a car, don’t run red lights, pay attention to what you’re doing and, most important, use common sense.

For more information, or to ask a question, visit www.askthedrainbrains.com or email info@drainbrain.com.