Getting a job as a high rise window washer is a great opportunity for someone who is looking for something to do in their spare time. This is because this is a job that can be done year-round. However, there are also some risks and dangers that come with it. If you are interested in getting a job like this, there are a few things that you can do to protect yourself. You can do this by keeping up on your safety measures and by knowing what equipment is needed.
Pay
Besides getting paid well, skyscraper window washers get to see the world at a breathtaking height. That’s why this career is so popular. It’s also a great way to save up for your future.
The job itself isn’t exactly easy, but it’s worth the effort. If you’re thinking about a career in window washing, you’ll be glad to know that there are many programs out there. Depending on where you live, you can expect to earn anywhere from $10 to $25 an hour.
While there are a number of advantages to being a window washer, you’ll also have to deal with the environment. This means you’ll have to work at times when the weather isn’t too bad. It’s also a good idea to keep your eye out for dangers.
Dangers
Keeping windows clean on high rise buildings is not an easy task. It involves scaling hundreds of feet in the air, and using equipment and tools that could be deadly.
Window cleaning is important for both business buildings and residences. Leaving windows uncleaned spoils the appearance of a property. There are many risks to window cleaning, including broken glass, falling objects, and tripping.
In the Western world, a helmet is considered a necessary part of the job. While wearing a helmet can provide some protection from a falling object, it does not prevent one from tripping. This is especially true if a window washer is working at a high elevation.
Safety is the primary responsibility of the building manager, but the crews that work on high rise buildings also have to be aware of their own safety. Having a written safety plan and a safety focused service provider is one way to minimize the risk of injury.
Safety measures
Whether cleaning windows or performing other high rise building maintenance tasks, safety measures for high rise window washers must be taken to protect both workers and passersby. The International Window Cleaners Association (IWCA) has a Safety Certification Program that ensures the safety of all those who work or pass through buildings.
High rise window washers must be well-trained and wear proper equipment. They must also be aware of electrical hazards. Keeping a 10-foot distance from power lines and electrical fixtures is a safety requirement.
In 2001, the American National Standard I-14.1 was published to provide window cleaners with a guideline for safe practices. In many cases, accidents and fatalities are reduced by 30% if these standards are followed.
Working year-round
Using ropes and harnesses, window washers work to clean windows hundreds of feet in the air. The task may sound simple, but the job is a challenge.
While a high-rise window cleaner’s pay is on par with other labor jobs, their safety requirements are top-notch. They need to be healthy and have the right tools and training. Some of the tools they use are ladders, ropes, squeegees, and a tool belt.
High rise window cleaners can earn up to $100 per hour. The pay is comparable to the average salary for a window cleaner in the US, which is $38,653. However, a high-rise window washer’s pay is more than 50% higher than that of the average worker.
Equipment needed
Keeping the windows of high rise buildings clean is important. This is because they help maintain a good view. Performing window cleaning requires specific skills and equipment. The equipment and services used will also affect the timeline of the cleaning.
High rise window cleaning equipment will vary based on the structure and complexity of the building. Generally, window washing equipment will include booms, cradles, and work platforms. These equipment are designed to ensure the safety of the worker.
The safety equipment used in high rise window cleaning can include a fall arrest system and harness. These are essential to ensure the safety of the worker, the pedestrians, and the building. A high rise window washer should have comprehensive training and certification.
