Work Smart, Keep It Safe

Here are some safety tips that garages can follow:

1.    Hazardous materials:

Garages often handle hazardous materials such as lubricants, coolants, and brake fluids etc. These chemicals can be dangerous if they come into contact with skin or are inhaled. It’s important to follow the proper handling and storage procedures outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions and that the appropriate datasheets are readily available.

2.    Fire safety:

With the use of flammable chemicals in car servicing and repairs, fire safety is a must. Ensure that your garage is equipped with appropriate fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and that all staff is trained in their use.

3.    Vehicle lifting:

Lifting heavy vehicles and accessing under-vehicle components are common tasks in car garages. Failure to follow proper lifting procedures or use of inadequate lifting equipment could result in serious injuries to employees. It’s essential to provide suitable equipment for the tasks in hand, conduct regular inspections and maintenance, and follow the operating instructions.

4.    Personal protective equipment:

It’s important that garage staff wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimise the risk to health and prevent accidents. Proper PPE includes gloves, respiratory protection, safety glasses, and work boots.

5.    Electrical hazards:

With the use of electrical tools and equipment in garages, there’s also the associated electrical risks. It’s vital to ensure that all equipment is in good condition and that there are no exposed wires, and to use a qualified electrician to conduct regular safety checks.

6.    Slips, trips, and falls:

Garages can be busy environments with lots of potential hazards. This can present a risk of slips, trips, and falls. Make sure that all workers are aware of their individual responsibility to keep their working environment safe for themselves and others and in the event of any spillages appropriate signage is available and that they cleaned up promptly.

7.    Keep the garage clean:

A clean garage is essential for a safe workplace. Garages should be free of clutter, tools should be cleaned and returned to their proper place, and spills should be cleaned up immediately. New and displaced parts should be stored appropriately and if electric vehicles are being repair appropriate signage is in place.

8.    Maintain equipment:

Regular maintenance of equipment is important to ensure everything is working properly. Poorly maintained machinery, tools, or equipment can lead to serious injury. A technician’s job is to fix and maintain cars, but they should also be taking care of their equipment as well their working environment.

9.    Know emergency procedures:

In the event of an emergency, it’s important for garage staff to know what to do. Your team should know the location of fire extinguishers, how to use them, and know what to do in case of a fire. They should also know how to shut off the electricity, gas, and water supply in case of an emergency.

Establishing a formal Health and Safety induction where new staff are shown emergency procedures, fire exits, as well as fire extinguisher locations and guidelines is a valuable and potentially life-saving action to implement for your entire team.