Health and Safety
Health and Safety is a top priority for our customers.
Below you’ll find essential information to help keep you or your staff safe while you work.
HEALTH & SAFETY - WORKING AT HEIGHT, WITHOUT THE RISK
At Gutter Vacuum Systems, safety isn’t an afterthought, we want it at your forefront to become built into the way you work.
Our equipment is designed to help you clear gutters, roofs and external surfaces safely from the ground, reducing the need for ladders and minimising risk on every job. But even with the right tools, safe operation is essential.
This page outlines the key health and safety principles when using gutter vacuum systems and telescopic water fed poles.
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE LOOK UP LOOK OUT NATIONAL SAFETY CAMPAIGN
WARNING: At the bottom of this page there are images that show real-life injuries caused by electrocution. Jason Knight suffered catastrophic injuries whilst using a telescopic window cleaning pole and has supplied these images so that you do not go through what he had. These images are intended for safety awareness and training purposes but may be disturbing to some viewers. Please proceed with caution.
BEFORE YOU START WORK
STOP LOOK OUT, LOOK UP! – Check for any overhead power cables before carrying out work.
Make sure you carry out a risk assessment before starting any work.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
If a person or object comes into contact with an overhead line, immediately move to a safe distance, well away from the area of damage.
Avoid touching anything that is in contact with or near the electrical equipment, and maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres at all times.
In case of an emergency, please call 999 and 105, letting them know that electricity is involved.
wEATHER AWARENESS
Wet weather and high winds can increase the risks associated with electricity:
- Rain, wet hands, or wet feet heighten the chance of conducting electricity.
- Strong winds can move poles sideways, potentially making contact with adjacent electrical wires.
When working at night or low visibility:
Use spotlights or a torch to check for power lines and make sure they aren’t within reach.
POLE MAINTENANCE & CARE
Maintaining your telescopic pole is crucial for safe, efficient operation and prolonging the life of your equipment.
Make sure there is no dirt or grit within the pole sections and clamps.
Do not over extend your pole – this is indicated with the red band.
Be cautious using a WFP near overhead cables – water conducts electricity.
Conduct a risk assessment before working near any overhead lines. Always maintain a safe exclusion zone.
Extend poles slowly and evenly.
ALWAYS inspect insulated pole sections for any signs of damage as this will comprise your pole safety. Insulated poles are your last line of defence.
Overhead Power Line Safety Awareness
Carry voltages from 230 volts up to 400,000 volts.
Be aware that electricity can jump gaps.
You must keep seven metres away from fallen or damaged overhead power lines.
If there are risks where you are working with overhead power lines, contact your local electrical network operator for advice before starting. You can find your DNO information by clicking here.
REMEMBER Insulated equipment does not give you permission to decrease your exclusion zone or touch a live power cable. Insulated equipment should ALWAYS remain as your last line of defence and NOT your first.
Stop. Scan the full work area. Look up for overhead hazards first.
Call the DNO on 105 (UK only). Confirm the voltage and ask whether temporary or permanent sheathing is possible.
REMEMBER: Walking away and saying no is the safest decision YOU can make.
exclusion zone
The distance that electricity can jump – this depends on the voltage of the line. The higher the voltage, the further the distance you must stay away from the line.
Consider your position on the ground when using your telescopic pole at a height.
Ensure that your telescopic pole is at least a minimum of 7 metres away from any overhead cables. This is to ensure you are not encroaching on any exclusion zone.
live wires
You should always assume the lines are live, keep your distance and do not touch.
ELECTRICAL INJURIES & HOW TO PREVENT THEM
There are four main types of electrical injury.
- Electrical Burns
- Electric Shock
- Electrocution
- Falls from shock
Prevention tips:
- Always inspect power cords and equipment for damage.
- Keep water away from electrical sources.
- Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines.
- Use secure ladders or scaffolding when working at height – ensure it is stable, secure and suitable for the conditions.
Look Out, Look Up! – Energy Networks Association (ENA)
When working at height especially with telescopic poles for gutters, windows, roofs, etc., overhead power lines can pose a hidden danger.
Contact with live cables can result in serious injury or even death.
Always conduct a risk assessment when using equipment near overhead electric cables, and follow a safe method of working, adhering to ENA safety guidelines.
Plan ahead. Work smart. Stay safe.
You can find more information in the campaign on the Energy Networks Association (ENA) website.
Risk Assessment
A Risk Assessment ensures the health and safety of workers and those around planned works. Are you aware that these are a legal requirement for employers and certain self-employed people?
The interpretation of a risk assessment is a systematic process of establishing hazards and evaluating the associated risks within a workplace, then enforcing reasonable control measures to remove or reduce them.
When completing a risk assessment, it is essential to precisely define some keywords:
- An accident is an unplanned event that results in loss.
- A hazard is something that has the potential to cause harm, for example work materials, work methods, equipment or practices.
- A risk is the likelihood (low, medium or high) and the severity of someone being harmed by the hazard (injury, ill-health, damage, loss).
Helpful Tips for Using Gutter Vacuums
Below is important information to help ensure your safety while working with gutter vacuums.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
To ensure safety whilst operating your gutter vacuum, PPE should be worn:
Safety Gloves: Protect hands from sharp debris, dirt and potential contaminants.
Rubber insulating glove = protects YOU from electric shock 
Leather outer glove = protects the rubber from damage 
Leather gloves alone DO NOT protect you from electricity You are exposed. Simple as that.
THE “CUFF LINE” (MINIMUM LENGTH) THIS IS CRITICAL Higher rated voltage gloves are made longer to increase protection up the arm That extra length isn’t for comfort, it’s to stop electricity reaching your body
This length must NEVER be altered Never cut, roll, or modify the glove Cut Torn Worn near the cuff Damaged anywhere IT IS NO LONGER SAFE TO USE VOLTAGE GUIDE (BS EN 60903)
CHECK YOUR GLOVES BEFORE EVERY JOB Inflate them (air test) Look for cracks Check for holes Feel for soft spots Inspect the cuff and wear areasEye Protection: Safety glasses to shield eyes from flying debris and splashes.
Dust Mask or respirator: Especially when working with dry, dusty material or potential hazardous waste (e.g bird droppings).
Hi-Vis Vest or Jacket: To ensure visibility whilst working, especially on public/busy areas.
Hard Hats: Protect from falling debris.
Safety boots: Non-slip reinforced boots to help protect against dropped poles/falling debris, as well as wet or uneven ground.
Ear protection (if required): Recommended for prolonged exposure such as jobs lasting several hours continuously, working in enclosed/echo-prone areas (noise level ~ 76 dB).
ANTI CONDUCTIVE GUTTER VACUUM POLES
Your first line of defence is AWARENESS. Always stay alert and aware of overhead power lines whilst working. Always assume those lines are live.
These poles have been designed with two colored layers of anti shock material to withstand up to 10,000 volts and a superior reinforced ring to prevent damage to the base of the pole.
Regularly inspect your poles for signs of wear and tear as this would compromise the safety of the equipment.
The base pole and additional section allows operatives with our 51mm push fits and our 51mm clamped carbon range to add these sections to their current kits.
Anti-Conductive Material – Green Thermosetting Braided Electroplated Prepreg
Green thermosetting braided electroplated prepreg is an anti-conductive composite material manufactured from high-quality glass fibre monofilaments. Due to its glass fibre construction, the material provides excellent electrical insulation properties, making it ideal for applications requiring non-conductive performance.
The thermosetting resin system ensures high mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and long-term durability. Its braided structure enhances structural integrity, while the electroplated finish provides an attractive appearance and additional surface protection.
Your green layer is your visual indicator. Inspect regularly for any signs of damage, the white layer exposes this underneath followed by the black layer which is conductive.
- Excellent electrical insulation (anti-conductive)
- High mechanical strength
- Durable thermosetting resin system
- Complex, high-precision manufacturing process
- Clean, professional green finish
Key Features
- Tested: The anti conductive poles have passed tests at 10,000 volts.
- Versatile Integration: Seamlessly connects with our existing 51mm push-fit and clamped carbon pole systems.
- Durable Build: Manufactured for professional use, ensuring long-term reliability in demanding environments.
- Reinforced Metal Ring: Preventing splintering, designed to withstand tough environments.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT DAMAGE TO THE WEAR INDICATOR OF THE POLE HIGHLIGHTS COMPROMISE TO THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND INSULATION OF THE POLE.
Any damage to the pole caused by misuse general wear and tear is at the operatives risk. Equipment should be regularly inspected prior to to use and after all other risk assessment methods have been undertaken.
Equipment maintenance
Before each use, check the following:
Filter condition: Inspect the filter type supplied with the machine, HEPA, sponge or cloth, depending on whether the gutter conditions are dry or wet. Ensure the filter is clean, intact and correctly mounted.
Hose condition: Examine the hose for blockages, cracks or wear.
Power cord and plug: Check the power cable and plug for cuts, exposed wires or compression and make sure the plug pins are not bent or contaminated prior to insertion into a socket.
Flush through poles: Make sure poles are free from grit and dirt – flush poles by vacuuming a small bucket of clean water using the correct filter.
Visual Inspection: Check for any signs of damage to head, drum or trolley – this can affect the gutter vacuum’s performance.
Manual Handling
Safe manual handling practices to prevent injury and ensure safe operation:
Ensure the gutter vacuum is transported using the trolley and side handles. Use a hose bag and a pole bag to carry equipment.
Use proper lifting techniques to reduce the risk of injury: bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs.
Assess the load of the vacuum – empty when nesseccary to reduce lifting/moving a heavier drum.
Do not exceed the recommended pole height. Encourage the use of leg and upper body movement to reduce fatigue of upper body strain.
High-reach poles give you access but control is everything.
Best practice:
- Keep both hands firmly on the pole at all times
- Maintain a stable, balanced stance
- Avoid overreaching reposition instead
- Be cautious in windy conditions (loss of control risk)
- Lower poles carefully never drop or swing
Before use:
- Check clamps, joints, and sections are secure
- Inspect for cracks, wear, or damage
- Ensure attachments are properly fitted
- If using anti conductive gutter vacuum poles, ensure that the green layer is undamaged, if the white layer is exposed this is showing safety compromise, the black layer shows the conductive pole.
- Assemble poles gradually, beginning with the top pole, add additoinal sections for the required height.
This allows you to gauge the comfort and manageability of the weight and length as you build up to the desired height finishing with your base pole.
weather safety precautions
To operate your gutter vacuum safely, always assess weather conditions before starting work:
Rain & Wet Conditions: Do not operate the gutter vacuum in rain – gutter vacuums are rated IP44 (splash proof), they are not water proof.
Wind: High winds can make poles difficult to control, increasing the risk of bending, whipping, or losing stability at height.
Cold or Icy Weather: Avoid operating the gutter vacuum in temperatures below -10°C.
Hot and Sunny Conditions: Take hydration breaks and wear sun protection. Keep the gutter vacuum in the shade to prevent overheating.
SAFE WASTE DISPOSAL
For safe waste disposal, you should:
Apply for a waste disposal licence through your local council, if required.
Check with the customer to confirm whether they are happy for debris to be emptied into their garden waste bin, compost heap etc.
Hazardous waste – such as bird droppings, needles, or dead animals – must be disposed of correctly. Always refer to your local council’s hazardous waste disposal guidelines.
Adhere to local waste disposal regulations and environmental guidelines.
wORKING AT HEIGHTS
While gutter vacuums are designed to help eliminate the need to work at height, there are some instances where ladder access, scaffold platforms or roof access is required.
Conduct a risk assessment before setting out any task involving heights.
Ensure you operatives are up to date with working at height regulations and safe ladder use.
Use equipment such as telescopic poles, cameras and inspection tools to reduce the use of ladders.
Do not work at height alone; at least two operatives.
Use equipment such as MEWPS (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms).
Stop. Scan the full work area. Look up for overhead hazards first.Call the DNO on 105 (UK only). Confirm the voltage and ask whether temporary or permanent sheathing is possible. REMEMBER: Walking away and saying no is the safest decision YOU can make.
sTAFF AND TRAINING
Ensure all operatives are updated and understand the importance of inspecting equipment prior to use and using the equipment in accordance with our guidelines.
This not only prolongs the longevity of the equipment but also ensures their safety on each job.
Have questions or need assistance?
If you have any questions or require further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. The GVS team will be happy to assist.
WARNING - VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Jason Knight suffered catastrophic injuries whilst using a telescopic window cleaning pole and has supplied these images so that you do not go through what he had. These images are intended for safety awareness and training purposes but may be disturbing to some viewers. Please proceed with caution.
PLEASE PROCEED TO VIEW THESE IMAGES WITH CAUTION
SO THAT YOU DO NOT GO THROUGH THIS OR LEAVE YOUR FAMILY WITHOUT YOU – PLEASE, PLEASE REMEMBER TO ALWAYS: