Top Auto Lift Safety Tips

Vehicle lifts assist technicians while they perform repairs and regular maintenance, but improper use can result in damaged cars and put you at risk for injuries or even death. Several reasons related to lifting accidents include insufficient training, operator errors, rushing the process, and neglecting maintenance.

If you want to establish an incident-free shop, refer to our auto lift safety tips to keep yourself and your workers protected.

Car Lift Safety Tips

Trained operators should be aware of various safety procedures before, during, and after he or she uses an auto lift, such as:

• Bystanders should not be near the lift area when in operation.
• Don’t override the controls.
• Don’t run over adapters, lift arms, or axle supports.
• Inspect the lift on a daily basis and make proper repairs with OEM parts.
• Keep the area free of debris and hazards.
• Never load the lift beyond its rated capacity.
• Never raise a car with a person inside.
• Only trained technicians should position the vehicle and operate the lift.
• Position the machine to support the vehicle’s lifting points.

Best Practices to Ensure Vehicle Lift Safety

Providing adequate training for your technicians is imperative. Preparation can include things like information on maximum weight capacity, proper operation of controls, correct vehicle spotting techniques, lift safety features, rules for hazard-free procedures, and proper maintenance. Also, make sure safety labels are in place and visible.

Technician responsibilities are another practice to implement, as they should be aware of dangers and other activities in the lift zone at all times. Operators should wear adequate protective equipment, never exceed the max weight, work with designated lift points, and check the points for corrosion or slick surfaces. They must ensure the vehicle is centered and balanced before lifting. Your workers can do so by raising the car a short distance and rocking it back and forth to confirm a stable position.

Operators should also make sure they engage the locking devices, chock the wheels, and clear the area of people and tools when raising and lowering a car.

Certifications and maintenance are other aspects you can implement to create a safe environment. Maintenance can prevent accidents and reduce costly repairs. You can refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and inspection tips. After a technician inspects the lift each day, they should notify a supervisor of necessary repairs. Your lifts should be ALI/ETL certified, too.

Security Features for the Actual Lift

While you can take precautions when working with an auto lift, you can also work with extra features such as:

• Four-post lift anti-sway blocks
• Four-post lift runway chocks and ramps
• Lifts designed to eliminate pinch points
• Automatic safety locks
• Slack cable safety devices
• Specialized lift pads for particular makes and models of vehicles

Rely on North American Auto Equipment

As a family-owned and operated business, we work with you one-on-one to understand your applications and needs. We offer unbiased suggestions and help you determine solutions that will benefit your company. Reach out to us online for additional info or to speak with a representative.

Read More About Auto Lift Care and Safety

• Auto Lift Maintenance Checklist
• What Is An ETL-ALI Certified Lift and Why Is It Important?
• Maintaining Your Car Lift