Automobiles are large, heavy machines with many mechanical parts. In a proper environment, a vehicle can be safely and effectively maintained and repaired. However, in an improper setting, repairs can be dangerous. Follow these auto shop safety tips to stay safe:

Basic Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Shop Rules:

– Never work alone.

– Wear eye protection.

– Avoid loose clothing or hair.

– Always look out for moving parts and be aware of what’s around you in all degrees 

– Understand that you may be working with chemicals of hazardous nature. Be sure to have a station for washing out the eyes in case you catch an accidental splash. 

– Keep proper cleanup materials in case of accidental spills.

– Avoid cluttering your workspace with non-automotive items such as home storage or garden tools.

– Never go under a vehicle that is improperly elevated (the jack used to change a tire is not sufficient).

– Know the location of the fire extinguisher and have a planned exit route. Ensure the fire extinguisher is functional and easily accessible.

– Keep an emergency response number handy and clearly posted.

– Maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle for roadside emergencies or repairs.

– Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for specific safety rules regarding your vehicle.

Proper Clothing and Hair:

Always wear Automotive Lift Repair Orlando safety goggles for eye protection. Vehicle repair involves fluids that can splatter, and eye contact should be avoided.

One of my best friends  lost sensation in his right hand. One night, while working alone, his hand got caught in the fan belt of a running engine. He managed to stop the engine with his other hand, but his right hand was stuck. Eventually he faded from consciousness and layed there for many hours suffering blood loss.  This could have resulted in death, but he only lost his fingers. Although it was his hand that got caught, the same principle applies: if clothing or hair gets caught, it won’t be long before a hand or face is pulled in too.

Do not wear ties or loose clothing. Secure long hair and avoid loose strands. Do not wear necklaces, rings, or other jewelry. The best thing you can coth yourself with when working in an auto shop is a durable Automotive Lift Repair Orlando mechanic’s jumpsuit. They hold up well and are less likely to get caught up in any moving parts. 

Avoid Slips, Falls, and Hazardous Chemicals:

Avoid contact with eyes and mouth. If contact occurs, flush with cool water for several minutes. If burning continues, seek medical attention.

Proper cleanup materials include shop rags and “Oil-Dri” (kitty litter without fragrance). Spread enough Oil-Dri over a spill to absorb it, then sweep it up and dispose of it.

Avoid clutter in your workspace that can cause falls. Keep non-automotive tools in other areas and clean up tools after use.

Proper Lifting Points:

A vehicle is a heavy piece of machinery that can be dangerous if not elevated properly. Always lift a vehicle at its proper lifting points, as specified in the Automotive Lift Repair Orlando owner’s manual. Improper lifting can damage the vehicle or cause the jack to tip or slide.

Vehicles should be on firm, level ground when lifted. Uneven or soft ground can cause instability. A jack is used to raise the vehicle, while a jack stand keeps it elevated. The jack included with a spare tire kit is only for changing tires, not for working under the vehicle.

When performing minor repairs, such as changing a tire, raise only the necessary part of the vehicle. Use a jack to lift the vehicle and place it on jack stands before working underneath. Ensure the vehicle is balanced on the stands.

Mechanic shops may use Automotive Lift Repair Orlando hydraulic lifts to raise the entire vehicle, ensuring the center of gravity is balanced. Instructions for lifting a vehicle corner to replace a spare tire will be covered in Lesson 4. Always consult the owner’s manual when lifting the vehicle.

Emergency Preparedness & Response:

Being prepared and responding quickly in an emergency can save lives. Although rare, fires can occur when working on motor vehicles due to flammable vehicle fluids that can ignite from excess heat or sparks from faulty electrical wires. Ensure a working fire extinguisher is accessible and that all shop workers know its location. An ABC or “tri-class” fire extinguisher is ideal for auto repair shops. Also, have an emergency escape plan in case a fire becomes uncontrollable.

Clearly post an emergency response number where everyone can see it.

Be sure to have an up to date first aid kit readily available that has everything you need for cuts and scrapes, and general wound cleaning. 

Have a flushing station nearby for any vehicle fluid contact with eyes, mouth, or skin, especially if the fluid is acidic.

Introduction to Tools Used by Mechanics:

A commercial Automotive Lift Repair Orlando mechanic’s shop typically has industry-standard tools like torque wrenches, hydraulic lifts, pneumatic (air-operated) tools, and electronic devices for vehicle diagnostics. However, a startup repair shop or a skilled home mechanic can accomplish most tasks with a $200 set of tools.

Common tools in a Automotive Lift Repair Orlando mechanic’s set include:

– Flashlight: Essential for visual inspections, maintenance, and repairs.

– Socket sets and wrenches: Available in metric (millimeters) and SAE (inches or fractions of inches) measurements. Wrenches often have an open end and a box end.

– Screwdrivers: Both Philips head (cross-shaped) and flat-tipped (slotted). Match the size of the screwdriver head with the screw to avoid stripping the screw.

– Jacks: Used to lift the vehicle, available in hand-rotated or hydraulic-pumped versions.

– Jack Stands: Keep the vehicle elevated after lifting with a jack. They have a wide square base and a resting point for the car.

– Pry Bar: Occasionally used to tension a belt.

– Hammer: Used on occasion, such as freeing a stuck drum or rotor from its hub.

– Test Light: Used to test fuses.

– Funnel: Used to fill vehicle fluids; ensure it is clean before each use.

– Drain Pan: Collects vehicle fluids when changing fluids, filters, or flushing systems.

– Tire Pressure Gauge: Measures tire pressure.

– Battery Tester: Checks if the battery is charged.

– Computer Scanner: Connects to the vehicle’s computer to receive diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).