Mechanics work hard every day to get vehicles and machinery back up and running for our use and with such a physically demanding job comes its risks. The physical and machinery-heavy nature of the job lends itself to increased chances of strains, injuries, and chemical problems and knowing what to expect can help you put plans into place to avoid them. In our handy infographic, we’re covering five of the most common injuries to take place in a mechanic’s shop to get you started.
Chemical Burns
Mechanics spend a lot of time working with chemicals, from fuels and oils to cleaning agents and lubricants and while some are harmless, others can pose a serious risk if misused. From rashes and burns on the skin to respiratory problems from inhaling too many fumes, chemical use as a mechanic is one of the leading causes of injury or illnesses at work. Proper PPE, breathing apparatus and eyewear can help mechanics avoid these kinds of risks. Similarly, the right clothing can help you to reduce the chance of any chemical spills causing skin problems.
Cuts and Scrapes
All day, mechanics work with sharp tools and vehicles that could be damaged, as well as heavy machinery and power tools. All of these add up to a high risk of cuts and scrapes if not handled properly. Ensuring that all mechanics at the workshop follow the same protocols and training to ensure their safety is crucial, as well as providing adequate PPE to protect them against any potential cuts, scrapes or bodily injuries, can help protect them.
Strains
Lifting heavy equipment or spending your time leaning over or under cars will have an effect over time and strains are a common injury that mechanics face. Without proper care and attention to your body, repetitive or over-stretched movements can cause issues within your muscles that might even put you out of work for a period of time. Making sure that you use the right set-up to reduce strain and that you do not lift anything heavy without support or the right equipment can help protect your body against the risk of strains.
Client Injury
It’s unlikely that your clients will be in the workshop while you’re working on cars and you probably have a separate office space for greeting customers and filling out paperwork, however, there is always a risk that a client could be injured by slipping, tripping or falling within your premises. Whether it’s a fluid that hasn’t been cleaned up yet that they’ve slipped on, or a tool or wire they’ve tripped over, taking the time to make sure your workshop remains clean, neat and organised can help reduce these risks. Public Liability Insurance for Mechanics also provides protection in case of accidents of this nature and will provide your business with the financial support needed for legal and compensatory situations.
Eye Damage
Working as a mechanic means that you’ll likely be faced with various hazards daily and this includes the potential for damage to your eyes or eyesight. Whether it’s welding, grinding, chemical use or even just an accident with the wrong power tool, damage to your eyes can often be permanent and painful. That’s why PPE is so important – making sure that all employees wear the right protective equipment including any masks, glasses and coverings, can reduce the chance of any eye damage and improve the workplace environment.
For more information about our Public Liability Insurance for Mechanics, we are on hand to help. Get in touch with Ashburnham Insurance on FREEPHONE 0800 1696137.