Owners, mechanics, and staff at auto body shops work in an area with many potential hazards. It’s in their best interests to keep the workshop clean and have a sense of order. Auto body shop safety rules can help prevent accidents relating to chemicals and liquids, as well as car jacks and other equipment. Insurance companies will also appreciate proper safety precautions being in place.

The goal of auto body shop safety policies is to protect staff members, visitors, equipment, and the cars in their care at all times. This means understanding the procedures and taking immediate action. Below are a few auto repair shop safety tips to help prevent common mishaps.

Auto Body Shop Safety Rules

Substance Spills

There are many liquids in an automotive shop, most of which are flammable. Common liquids found around car shops include oil, fuel, water, brake fluid, and radiator fluid. This can be very risky if someone is using an arc welder which gives off sparks.

Another problem with liquid spills is that the liquid can stealthily make contact with stripped-out car parts and prevent them from working properly once reinstalled. As a result, auto shop owners and workers must clean spills immediately. Workers must safely throw away the materials they use to clean the spills instead of using them again.

Waste Disposal

Workers must safely dispose of chemical waste, spray paint cans, oil containers, and drained out old motor oil. Old motor oil, as well as plastic bottles, can be sent for recycling if they are clean enough inside. However, oily rags and newspapers used to wrap up parts need to be separated and disposed of separately.

Dirty Floors

Auto body shop floors get dirty quickly because the doors are always open. Consequently, dust particles find their way onto all surfaces and parts. On the floor, the dust can combine with chemical liquid residues and other dust particles. As a result, this becomes part of the air that workers and guests breathe in the shop which is very unhealthy. Sweep the garage floor regularly to maintain healthy air quality levels.

Electrical Safety

There are tons of electrical equipment in an auto repair shop. Oftentimes, the equipment is being used simultaneously. This can make it easy to forget what is turned on and what is turned off. Checking that the power is off before using the tools, especially when working on a car’s electrical components, is essential to avoid electric shocks. It’s also a good idea to disconnect the car’s battery before starting repairs as well.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

While it isn’t necessary for repair shop employees to wear high visibility safety gear, it is important that they have standard auto body shop personal protective equipment.

Sturdy Work Boots

Work boots should have a nonslip sole as workshop floors often have residual grease on them. A nonslip sole can help prevent slips and falls on the greasy floors. In addition, the boots should also have a steel toe cap to protect the wearer’s toes in the event that tools or heavy metal car parts fall. Because there are many liquids around car shops, wearing waterproof boots is also a plus.

Work Gloves

Car parts and motors can still be hot while mechanics are working on the car. Work gloves can help lower the risk of burning their hands and knuckles.

Safety Eye Wear

Working under a car or bending over the engine exposes a mechanic’s face and eyes. Eye protection can help keep workers safe from steam, dust particles, as well as oil splashes.

Eating on the Job

Even if the work is backing up, food and drink should not be left open. Food that is left open around the shop will be exposed to chemicals, fumes, sparks, and dust. Assign a specific kitchen area or outdoor rest area for workers and visitors to enjoy their food and drinks.

Safety Tips for Vehicle Owners

Keep your car or truck safe on the road with these maintenance reminders:

• Get regular oil changes
• Check your tire pressure and wear
• Listen for squeaking or squealing brake pads
• Check your lights: headlights, blinkers, and brake lights
• Replace windshield wipers when they crack or seem brittle
• Check your fluid levels

Additional Information: Autobody Repair and Refinishing - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Great Plains Auto Body Repair Shops in Omaha & Council Bluffs | Best Auto Body Shops Omaha & Council Bluffs, IA

At Great Plains Auto Body shop Omaha and Council Bluffs, we’re committed to giving you an unmatched level of service. As a company that’s been family-owned and operated for more than 26 years, we’re dedicated to treating our customers as we would treat members of our own family. We’ll keep you informed throughout the entire repair process and make sure you’re satisfied when the job is complete. From estimating and detailing to collision repair and paint services, our ASE-certified mechanics and technicians make sure the job is done right and on time.