Anytime you are working with heavy machinery, safety is always the number one priority. Owning an auto shop means your employee’s safety is in your hands, so be sure they are performing the job successfully and following all these essential safety tips. Regardless of whether you are brand new to the business and just beginning to learn the mistakes to avoid when starting an auto shop or a seasoned professional, the employer should always look for new ways to keep employees safe while on the job.
Ensure Everyone Wears Proper PPE
PPE or personal protective equipment is for jobs that work with dangerous machinery and sometimes hazardous conditions; this is the same for auto repair shops. Some gear your workers should wear includes safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and steel-toed shoes. It is up to you to determine what is necessary, depending on the type of auto work you plan on performing at your garage.
Have an Accessible Fire Extinguisher
Because the workers are constantly around oil and fumes, a few fire extinguishers are necessary for a garage. Advise every employee, so they know where the fire extinguishers are. Also, understand where you place these fire extinguishers so they are easy to find and reach.
Never Wear Loose Clothing
Loose and ripped clothing can quickly become a hazard if the worker is not careful enough. Loose clothing can easily get sucked into a rotating device, quickly becoming dangerous. Avoid loose and ripped clothing altogether, and constantly remind your workers of the dangers that can occur if they were to wear clothing that’s unsafe for work.
Clean Up Spills as Soon as Possible
Keeping a garage full of vehicle parts clean is next to impossible, but you can keep the work area tidy and organized to avoid disasters. Clean up all spills as soon as the job is done; leaving the mess can become a fire hazard if the substance is flammable, or it can cause a worker to trip or slip. Verify that you have oil-absorbing pads and other components that aid in cleaning up spills quicker.
Never Work Under an Unsupported Vehicle
When the employees jack up a car, prepare them better and go over the proper protocol to set up a vehicle for repair. Never allow workers to get under the car until the vehicle is fully supported. Getting too hasty can become detrimental if the worker does not ensure the support jacks hold up the car.
Use the essential safety tips for auto repair shops so that you can start a successful business in the automotive industry. Support your employees, implement protocols, and always ensure your business runs safely. As time goes on, you’ll soon realize what needs to take priority over other safety measures.