Motor vehicle servicing is one of the most common vocations worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of shops service millions of vehicles every day. That means at any given time, many people are conducting automotive servicing, and there is great potential for things to go wrong (FIGURE 3-3}.
It is up to you and your workplace to make sure all work activities are conducted safely. Accidents are not caused by properly maintained tools; accidents are generally caused by people.
TECHNICIAN TIP
Whenever you perform a task in the shop, you must use personal protective clothing and equipment that are appropriate for the task and that conform to your local safety regulations and policies.Among other items, these may include:
■Work clothing. such as coveralls and steel-capped footwear
■Eye protection, such as safety glasses and face masks
■Ear protection, such as earmuffs and earplugs
■Hand protection. such as gloves and barrier cream
■Respiratory equipment, such as face masks and valved respirators
■If you are not certain what is appropriate or required. Ask your supervisor".
You Are the Automotive Technician
You are changing the oil on a new type of vehicle for the first time.The oil pan has the drain plug on the side of the oil pan instead of the bottom of the pan.You place the drain pan directly under the drain plug like you normally do. Unfortunately, when the plug comes out, the oil shoots sideways right over the side of the drain pan.You reposition it quickly, but not before a large puddle is on the floor.
1. Why is it important to review the SDS before cleaning up a spill?
2. What is the minimum PPE that should be worn to manage this spill?
3. What are some of the health hazards of coming into frequent or prolonged contact with used engine oil?
4. If the oil were to catch fire, what fire extinguisher should be used to put the fire out?
Don't Underestimate the Dangers
Because vehicle servicing and repair are so commonplace, it is easy to overlook the many potential risks related to this field. Think carefully about what you are doing and how you are doing it. Think through the steps, trying to anticipate things that may go wrong and taking steps to prevent them. Also be wary of taking shortcuts. In most cases, the time saved by taking a shortcut is nothing compared to the time spent recovering from an accident (FIGURE 3-4).
Accidents and Injuries Can Happen at Any Time
There is the possibility of an accident occurring whenever work is undertaken. For example, fires and explosions are a constant hazard wherever there are flammable fuels. Electricity can kill quickly as well as cause painful shocks and burns. Heavy equipment and machinery can easily cause broken bones or crush fingers and toes. Hazardous solvents and other chemicals can burn or blind as well as contribute to many kinds of illness. Oil spills and tools left lying around can cause slips, trips, and falls. Poor lifting and handling techniques can cause chronic strain injuries, particularly to your back (FIGURE 3-5).
Accidents and Injuries Are Avoidable
Almost all accidents are avoidable or preventable by taking a few precautions. Think of nearly every accident you have witnessed or heard about. In most cases someone made a mistake. Whether caused by horseplay, neglecting maintenance on tools or equipment, or using tools improperly, these instances lead to injury (FIGURE 3-6).
Most of these accidents can be prevented if people follow policies and develop a “safety first” attitude. By following regulations and safety procedures, you can make your workplace much safer. Learn and follow all of the correct safety procedures for your workplace. Always wear the right PPE, and stay alert and aware of what is happening around you. Think about what you are doing, how you are doing it, and its effect on others. You also need to know what to do in case of an emergency. Document and report all accidents and injuries whenever they happen, and take the proper steps to make sure they never happen again.
Evacuation Routes
Evacuation routes are a safe way of escaping danger and gathering in a prearranged safe place where everyone can be accounted for in the event of an emergency. It is important to have more than one evacuation route in case any single route is blocked during the emergency. Your shop may have an evacuation procedure that clearly identifies the evacuation routes (FIGURE 3-7).
Often the evacuation routes are marked with colored lines painted or taped on the floors. Exits should be highlighted with signs that may be illuminated, and should never be chained closed or obstructed (FIGURE 3-8].
Always make sure you are familiar with the evacuation routes for the shop. Before conducting any task, identify which route you will take if an emergency occurs.
TECHNICIAN TIP
Never place anything in the way of evacuation routes. including equipment, Tools, Parts, cleaning supplies, or vehicles.