Health & Safety checklist for safe mechanical repair & servicing

By Road Runner

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This checklist focuses on good practices which are not compulsory or exhaustive but which you may find helpful identifying what you need to do. Here are some questions you should ask…

Slips and trips

Are workshops, walkways and showroom floors in good condition, and free from tripping and slipping hazards?

Are floors cleaned regularly?

Are spillages cleared immediately and snow, ice and water from vehicles cleaned up?

Is there non-slip flooring where appropriate?

Are employees issues with non-slip footwear where necessary?

Plant and equipment

Is all equipment maintained and regularly inspected as recommended by the manufacturer?

Are reduced-vibration tools used wherever possible?

Is all machinery guarding in place and in good condition?

Are all vehicles properly supported before anyone works underneath them?

Are correct props used with HGV cabs, bodies and trailers?

Are axle stands fitted with original specification pins?

Do vehicle lifts have toe protection and hinged end-stops?

Are arm-locking devices on two-post lifts checked daily and arms positioned carefully before each lift?

Does all lifting equipment and the fair compressor have a valid certificate of inspection and thorough examination from a competent person?

Are vehicle supports inspected every year?

Manual handling

Are appropriate mechanical aids for heavy or bulky items such as tyres, gas cylinders, engine blocks etc used correctly?

Is assistance for moving heavy or bulky items available when required?

Falls

Are there appropriate precautions for working areas such as pits, mezzanine floors, racking on top of vehicles etc?

Is there suitable, secured access from level and stable ground?

Are ladders and other access equipment checked regularly and repaired or replaced if faulty?

Transport

Is there a plan of the work area with parking, loading and directions of travel marked out?

Do vehicles and pedestrians have separate, clearly marked routes as far as possible?

Has reversing been reduced to a minimum?

Are vehicles always braked and chocked, particularly on lifts and sloping floors?

Are vehicles started correctly (i.e. from the driver’s seat with both feet inside and the gear disengaged)?

Fire and explosion

If petrol has to be drained, is a proprietary fuel retriever used and are the necessary precautions followed?

The information provided is intended to be a guide only. If you are in any doubt about your personal circumstances, you can contact the Road Runner insurance team on 0330 100 8720