Auto garage safety

Auto garages and body shops have the potential to be dangerous places if you fail to take the proper preventative measures.

Follow these safety tips to protect your customers, employees and your business interests:

Fire safety

• Keep oily rags in approved, self-closing metal containers, and empty all containers nightly.
• Use flammable or combustible liquids only in well-ventilated areas. Keep the liquids in approved storage cabinets when not in use.
• Flammable or combustible liquids being transferred from one container to another should be grounded and bonded according to applicable National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code(s).
• All flammable paint spraying or mixing should be done inside a NFPA-compliant spray booth or mixing room.
• Install and identify portable fire extinguishers. Have them serviced regularly.
• When cleaning parts, use an approved parts washer equipped with a fully operable, fusible-link safety device.
• Use a non-flammable solvent for cleaning.
• Garage heaters should be properly installed, maintained and checked regularly. Avoid using space heaters.
• Welding should be completed only in designated areas.
• No smoking.

Liability safety

• Do not allow customers in the garage work area unless accompanied by an employee.
• All employees should be properly trained in vehicle repair and maintenance, as well as how to properly operate tools and equipment.
• Keep all walking and parking areas free of hazards and clear of snow or ice.
• Check driving records annually for all employees allowed to test drive vehicles.

Employee safety

• Clean oil and grease spills from the shop floor.
• Regularly inspect and maintain vehicle lifts according to manufacturer specifications.
• Enforce the use of personal protective equipment (goggles, gloves, hearing protection, sturdy footwear).
• Cover oil change pits with netting or steel grating when not in use.

Crime prevention

• Deposit receipts at the bank daily. Vary your route and the time that you go.
• Do not leave money in the cash register when you close. Also, leave the register drawer open at night.
• Have a formal closing procedure and always activate your security system.
• Lock all vehicles when you close and store customers’ vehicles inside the garage if possible.
• Keep customers’ keys locked up and out of public view.
• The outside of your building should be well lit at night.