Pressure Washer Safety - What PPE do you guys use?

Hey folks, just got a new gas pressure washer for cleaning my driveway and patio. I've seen some scary videos online about injuries from these things. What kind of personal protective equipment (PPE) should I be wearing? I've got safety glasses, but is that enough? Don't want to end up in the ER because I skipped something obvious.

Good question Hank! I learned this the hard way last summer. Was cleaning my deck and got some nasty chemical backspray in my eyes even with glasses on. Now I ALWAYS wear: 1) Full face shield (not just glasses), 2) Rubber boots with good tread, 3) Heavy duty gloves, and 4) Hearing protection if it's a gas model. Those things are LOUD. Oh, and closed-toe shoes at minimum - no sandals!

Mike's spot on about the face shield. I use mine for woodworking too - multi-purpose! Also, make sure you're wearing pants, not shorts. The water pressure can drive debris into your skin. My buddy got a piece of gravel embedded in his leg once. Took weeks to heal. What PSI is your washer, Hank? Higher pressure needs more protection.

Thanks guys! It's 3200 PSI - pretty powerful. I didn't even think about hearing protection or pants. Good call on the multi-use face shield Sam. Mike - hope your eyes recovered okay! Going to pick up proper gear before I fire this thing up. Any brand recommendations for face shields?

3200 PSI is no joke! I like the 3M face shields - comfortable and good visibility. One more tip: keep bystanders (especially kids and pets) far away. The spray can knock someone over. And never point it at people, even as a joke. Saw someone do that at a BBQ once... not pretty. Stay safe out there!