Accidents will happen because auto valeters are just human, but there are several things you can take to lessen the likelihood that damaged vehicles will occur while in your care.
Having motor trade insurance in place can help shield you from the financial burden of fixing a customer's vehicle. Below are some of the most typical dangers that auto valeters should stay clear of.
Automobile Damage
It's impossible to rule out accidents completely, but an underlying issue frequently damages a car. This could be due to undertrained or overworked employees, insufficient time allotted for each activity, low motivation, or insufficient training.
Good maintenance, dependable equipment, and enough lighting all contribute to avoiding danger to workers or cars. Another essential component of risk management is training.
Trips and Falls
Areas where cars are washed frequently have wet flooring, which may be made slick by soaps, oils, and polishing agents. The work area might have electrical leads, water hoses, and equipment, and there might be ladders and other obstructions nearby.
Customers and employees alike are at risk from slips and trips. Customers should only be permitted to enter areas that are kept tidy and free of obstructions.
To reduce risks, work areas should be organised. For instance, equipment should be stored away when unused, and a regular cleaning schedule should be followed to remove buildup and debris.
Workers must be taught about the risk of slips and trips and how to avoid them, and they must wear slip-resistant shoes. If you are smart and responsible in ensuring the safety of your employees, your motor trade insurance might not pay out.
Sprains
Cleaning automobiles requires a lot of effort and frequently necessitates crouching, awkward postures, and repetitive motions. Sprains and strains are risks for workers, but these risks can be decreased by taking reasonable precautions.
These include teaching employees safe techniques to handle tools, lift heavy objects, and reach confined spaces in a car. Also, encourage them to stretch and take frequent breaks.
You might need to consult an outside specialist to assist with training or give you advice on the safety measures needed for your company.
Electrical Dangers
Although they make automobile cleaning easier and faster, electrical instruments come with some risks. Lots of water is used when washing cars, which increases the risk of electrocution.
If a tool isn't intended for use in a damp environment, it shouldn't be utilised there, and employees shouldn't operate electrical equipment with wet hands.
When handling electrical equipment in moist settings, workers should stand on non-conductive mats.
The workspace arrangement should be planned to keep workers away from grounded objects like machinery or pipes, and good training should be given on how to safely use electric tools and equipment.
Chemical Contact
Valeting uses a variety of chemicals, including solvents, detergents, polishes, and waxes, all of which can be dangerous if not used properly. Always use, handle, and store chemicals according to manufacturer directions.
Employees may need personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks when employing chemicals. They should be permitted to wash their hands after handling chemicals before they consume anything or smoke a cigarette.
To prevent causing damage to automobiles, employees should be clear on how each chemical should be utilised.
Conclusion
Awareness of the potential hazards associated with car valeting is important. Taking a few simple precautions can minimise the risks associated with car valeting.
Always follow the safety instructions on any products you use, and consult a professional if you are ever in doubt.
Secure Group is here to assist you if you need car valeting services in Cambridgeshire! We provide valeting, driving, and inspection.
Our auto imaging division also provides a progress-chaser portal with imaging, HD video, and digital backdrops. Contact us now to know more!