The main theme of this bachelor thesis is the current possibilities of using the water beam in woodworking and wood-based composite materials. The work is divided into five chapters. The first chapter describes the theoretical analysis of water jet machining. It discusses Water Jet Machining (WJM) and Abrasive Waterjet Machining (AWM). The second chapter analyzes the historical development of the water jet and at the same time it analyzes the current state of water jet machining in the world and in Slovakia. The water jet is characterized by a great deal of precedence compared to other unconventional technologies, but also by several undesirable qualities that are contained in the third chapter. The fourth chapter contains work safety. Work safety is the most important attribute for every kind and method of machining, and even a water beam is no exception. The fourth chapter also includes an impact on the environment, as one of the few technologies the water jet is environment-friendly. The final chapter deals with the prognosis of the development of water jet technology in the woodworking industry in Slovakia and at the same time it introduces some of the latest trends in this technology.