Jetting Safely

So when they approached us to help tackle a growing safety concern around pressure washing operations, we were more than ready to get started.

Perenco had identified an increase in minor incidents linked to pressure washing across their sites—everything from trailing cable issues and debris injuries to pressure-related incidents and incorrect PPE use. At the same time, the Water Jetting Association (WJA) had released updated guidance, setting out clearer expectations for safe operation across low, medium, high, and ultra-high pressure activities. Perenco needed a way to bring all this information together in a clear, engaging learning resource that their teams could trust.

Although pressure washing might seem like a straightforward task, the risks vary dramatically depending on the system being used. Day-to-day offshore maintenance might involve low-pressure jet washing, which still carries hazards like airborne rust, dust, and debris. At the other end of the scale, high and ultra-high pressure jetting operations require specialist external crews. Even if the work is contracted out, Perenco still retains responsibility for ensuring the job is carried out safely—meaning they must understand crew competence, PPE requirements, permit controls, and the correct sequence of work for each type of operation.

Lower-pressure work completed internally can introduce its own challenges. Without the right training and awareness, simple mistakes—like cables running across walkways or incorrect PPE use—can quickly lead to injuries. With so much variation, Perenco wanted a resource that broke the topic down clearly and helped teams recognise the hazards and controls associated with each type of equipment.

Their solution was to commission a 10-minute animated video that stepped through the differences between low, high, and ultra-high pressure jetting operations. The content needed to align with both Perenco’s internal standard and the latest WJA guidance, ensuring teams understood not just the equipment, but the safe systems of work expected across the industry. This included the correct PPE, who should be present during each type of operation, the hazards to look out for, and the key responsibilities of everyone involved.

To make the subject as engaging as possible, we used a mix of 2D and 3D animation, supported by a 3D character narrator to guide learners through each scenario. Perenco also provided reference visuals to help us accurately reflect their offshore environments. The outcome was a fast-paced, clear, and highly visual learning experience—one designed to keep attention, not lose it.

The project took around three to four weeks from start to finish, and the feedback couldn’t have been better. Perenco signed it off immediately with no revisions required, and the animation is now in use across both their offshore platforms and onshore facilities.

All in all, it was a rewarding project that demonstrates how thoughtful, visual learning can elevate safety performance—especially in high-risk environments where clarity and confidence matter most.