The auto repair industry is filled with potential hazards,from handling heavy machinery to working with toxic chemicals. Since mechanics face a unique set of risks every day, it’s highly important that they know how to minimise these.

While you should be aware of the majority of the health and safety regulations set out by the government, it’s always good to find out new ways that you can be safer in your role.We take a look at some essential tips that every mechanic should follow to protect themselves and others.

Wear the correct equipment

Wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the first line of defence against hazards in the workshop. Safety glassesmust be wornwhen debris and sparks are flying around to prevent damage to the eyes.

Chemical-resistant gloves should be worn when handling automotive fluids.Those made of nitrileare best as they offer excellent protection against oil and grease. To prevent impaired hearing after years of work, noise-cancelling ear protection is beneficial, particularly when operating loud machinery.

Additionally, steel-toed boots can help protect the feetwhen lifting heavy objects and reduce the risk of slipping on slick surfaces.

Invest in the right tools

Using the right tools for the job isn’t just useful for safety but also for efficiency. All of your equipmentshould be well-maintained and appropriate for the task at hand. As an example, using a drill driver with the correctly sized bit is safer and more effective than forcing a bit that is too small.

You should also be qualifiedto these tools correctly; if not, training may be required or someone else will need to complete the task for you.

Be cautious of your surroundings

Cars are big machines with powerful engines, so it’s crucial that you’re cautious when working on them. Operating on a running engine should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, as the risk of injury is significantly higher.

To prevent accidental shock or injury, always disconnect the battery before performing any electrical repairs and be mindful of hot components that could result in serious burns. As an additional precaution, wear heat-resistant gloves when handling these parts.

Lift heavy equipment correctly

A common injury among mechanics is back problems due to the frequent lifting of heavy parts and equipment. This is why proper lifting techniques are important, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight.

When handling these heavy components, use hoists or jack stands that are calculated for the vehicle’s weight and secure these before raising the vehicle to prevent accidents.

Handle hazardous materials properly

Mechanics handle dangerous substances on a daily basis, including brake cleaner, degreaser, antifreeze, and gasoline. These chemicalsare dangerous if inhaled or absorbed through the skin, which is why protective equipment is necessary.

Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling these fumes andproperly dispose of used fluids according to local regulations.

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