The auto repair shop is a high-stakes environment. With large machinery, power tools and chemicals, keeping your employees and customers safe from dangerous situations should be top of mind.
Employee injuries are common in auto shops. Even a minor injury like a slip and fall or burn can turn into a costly workers’ compensation claim. And, besides that, your shop could have OSHA fines, lost productivity or even reputational damage.
Erie Insurance offers the following seven tips to keep your auto repair shop safe from a variety of unexpected events:
- Prioritize preventative maintenance: A well-maintained shop is a safer shop. Conducting regular equipment checks and maintenance can help to prevent costly accidents.
- Define protocols: Clear safety protocols, including those on how to handle and dispose of products, are essential to protecting those in your shop. Auto shops often require heavy lifting and working with high-temperature fluids. An example of an important protocol may be something around requiring employees to use personal protective equipment (face and eye protection, gloves and respirators if handling paints or chemicals). Defined safety protocols can protect your employees from injury and you from workers’ compensation claims.
- Require employee training: Having a set schedule for training on different safety protocols such as how to operate equipment and hazard awareness can ensure your employees can thrive in a safe environment for themselves and customers. Training is more important than ever due to the current mechanical labor shortage. With so many veteran workers retiring, newer employees may lack hands-on experience to work safely. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an average of 67,800 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics each year through 2033.
- Make security a priority: Implement security measures, such as security cameras and alarm systems, to deter theft and vandalism and keep your shop secure.
- Maintain accurate records: Avoid disputes or claims by keeping detailed records of customer vehicles, repairs and incidents. Erie Insurance offers errors and omissions coverage (for an additional cost). This coverage protects against mistakes which can damage a customer’s vehicle. Accurate records could help you ensure a claim is covered.
- Stay updated on trends: Monitor and implement new safety or industry standards to keep everyone safe. As electric and hybrid vehicles become more common, keeping your employees updated on safety standards on handling these high-voltage battery systems could keep your business ahead and everyone safe.
- Review your business coverage: Make sure you have the right insurance coverage to protect your auto shop. Business insurance from Erie Insurance offers specialized coverage options to protect you and your shop, as well as risk control resources to help prevent any risks before a claim can happen.
By actively addressing any potential deficiencies in your shop, your business will be well-equipped for success.
Erie Insurance understands the unique challenges faced by auto shops and provides specialized coverage for auto shop business owners through The ERIE Custom Collection® Auto Services Program. This program offers a suite of products and services for better protection and peace of mind. Contact a local ERIE agent today or learn more about why auto services professionals trust ERIE with their insurance needs.
