Every automotive operation is unique, but most facilities are subject to many of the same OSHA standards. Maintaining OSHA compliance is an essential part of operating a safe, successful auto dealership. Your employees face workplace hazards every day, a proactive safety program helps protect your workforce while reducing business risk.

A safer workplace often results in fewer employee injuries and workers’ compensation claims. Businesses with effective safety programs may experience lower claim frequency, reduced lost-time incidents, and improved risk profiles, all of which can positively influence insurance costs over time.

Many OSHA standards require written programs and documented procedures. Depending on your operation, these may include Hazard Communication plans, Emergency Action Plans, Respiratory Protection Programs, Lockout/Tagout procedures, and employee training records. Having organized documentation can also simplify OSHA inspections and demonstrate your commitment to workplace safety.

Automotive dealerships, repair shops, collision centers, and fleet maintenance facilities are subject to a variety of OSHA standards. Common requirements include Hazard Communication (HazCom), Safety Data Sheet (SDS) management, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Lockout/Tagout procedures, walking-working surfaces, fire safety, electrical safety, machine guarding, and employee safety training. The exact requirements depend on the services your business performs.

An OSHA inspection can result in citations, financial penalties, required corrective actions, and follow-up inspections if violations are found. In addition to fines, non-compliance can increase your liability, impact employee morale, and contribute to higher workers’ compensation costs. Proactive compliance helps reduce these risks.

Training requirements vary depending on the hazards present in your workplace. Employees should receive training when they are hired, when new equipment or hazardous materials are introduced, when job responsibilities change, and whenever OSHA standards require refresher training. Ongoing safety education helps reinforce safe work practices and reduce workplace accidents.

Employee Acknowledgment Form

Unfortunately, emergency planning is often overlooked in the fast-paced automotive industry. Daily operations, customer service, and vehicle sales naturally take priority, but failing to prepare for emergencies can place employees at unnecessary risk while exposing your business to OSHA violations and costly penalties.

What Should an OSHA Emergency Action Plan Include?

An effective Emergency Action Plan should address the hazards that are most likely to affect your business and clearly define how employees should respond. While every dealership’s plan will differ based on its location and operations, common elements include:

• Emergency procedures for fires, severe weather, earthquakes, floods, power outages, and other hazards specific to your geographic area.
• Evacuation routes, designated assembly areas, and procedures for safely accounting for all employees after an evacuation.
• Clear roles and responsibilities for emergency coordinators and designated backup personnel.
• Procedures for reporting emergencies and contacting local emergency responders.
• Plans for protecting critical business records, customer information, vehicle inventories, equipment, and other valuable assets.
• Readily accessible copies of the Emergency Action Plan for all employees, either in printed form or through a digital system.

Employee Training Is Critical

Creating an Emergency Action Plan is only the first step. Employees must understand the procedures and know exactly what to do during an emergency. OSHA expects employers to provide training when employees are hired, whenever job responsibilities change, after significant changes to the workplace, and whenever the emergency plan is updated. Many businesses also conduct annual emergency drills to reinforce procedures and identify opportunities for improvement.

Stay Prepared and OSHA Compliant

An Emergency Action Plan is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s an important investment in the safety of your employees and the continuity of your business. A well-prepared dealership can respond more effectively during emergencies, minimize injuries, protect property, and recover more quickly from unexpected events.

Failure to maintain an adequate emergency preparedness program may result in OSHA citations, financial penalties, and increased liability. More importantly, inadequate planning can place employees, customers, and visitors at unnecessary risk. Developing and maintaining a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan helps create a safer workplace while demonstrating your commitment to employee safety and OSHA compliance.

OSHA requires employers to assess workplace hazards and provide appropriate personal protective equipment whenever engineering or administrative controls cannot eliminate the risk. For auto dealerships, a well-managed PPE program not only helps maintain OSHA compliance but also reduces injuries, lowers workers’ compensation costs, and keeps employees productive.

OSHA PPE Requirements

OSHA’s Personal Protective Equipment standards, found primarily in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I, require employers to:

• Conduct a workplace hazard assessment.
• Identify hazards that require PPE.
• Provide appropriate PPE when necessary.
• Train employees on the proper use, care, and limitations of PPE.
• Replace damaged or worn PPE as needed.
• Enforce the consistent use of required protective equipment.

Simply providing safety glasses or gloves isn’t enough. Employees must understand when PPE is required and how to use it correctly.

Common Hazards in Auto Dealerships

Automotive dealerships expose employees to a variety of workplace hazards every day, including:

• Flying metal or rust particles during grinding and cutting
• Chemical splashes from battery acid, brake cleaner, solvents, and cleaning products
• Hot surfaces and molten metal during welding
• Sharp tools and vehicle components
• Heavy lifting and falling objects
• Loud equipment and impact tools
• Airborne dust and paint overspray
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards
• Exposure to bloodborne pathogens during accident cleanup

A thorough hazard assessment helps determine which PPE is appropriate for each job task.

Essential PPE for Automotive Service Departments

Eye Protection

Safety glasses are among the most commonly used forms of PPE in automotive repair facilities. Technicians should wear ANSI-approved safety glasses whenever performing tasks that could generate flying debris, chemical splashes, or dust.

Face shields may also be required when grinding, cutting, or handling corrosive materials. It’s important to remember that face shields supplement—not replace—proper safety glasses.

Hand Protection

Different jobs require different gloves.

Examples include:

• Nitrile gloves for oils, grease, and chemicals
• Chemical-resistant gloves when handling hazardous substances
• Cut-resistant gloves for handling sharp sheet metal or glass
• Heat-resistant gloves for welding or hot components

Selecting the correct glove material is essential because no single glove protects against every hazard.

Hearing Protection

Impact wrenches, grinders, air compressors, and other shop equipment can expose employees to damaging noise levels.

Depending on measured noise exposure, hearing protection may include:

• Foam ear plugs
• Reusable ear plugs
• Earmuffs designed for industrial environments

When required, dealerships should also implement a Hearing Conservation Program.

Foot Protection

Technicians spend much of the day around heavy tools, vehicle lifts, and moving equipment.

Safety footwear can help protect against:

• Dropped parts
• Rolling tires
• Slippery shop floors
• Sharp objects

Slip-resistant, safety-toe work boots are commonly recommended for service technicians.

Respiratory Protection

Respirators may be necessary when employees are exposed to hazardous dusts, fumes, vapors, or paint overspray.

Examples include:

• Body shops
• Paint booths
• Sanding operations
• Certain detailing chemicals
• Welding operations

If respirators are required, OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard includes additional requirements such as medical evaluations, fit testing, training, and written procedures.

Protective Clothing

Depending on the work performed, employees may also need:

• Shop coats
• Flame-resistant clothing
• Welding jackets
• High-visibility safety vests
• Chemical-resistant aprons
• Disposable protective coveralls

Proper clothing helps reduce exposure to burns, chemicals, and contamination.

PPE by Dealership Department

Different departments face different hazards.

Service Department

• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves
• Hearing protection
• Safety footwear

Parts Department

• Safety shoes
• Cut-resistant gloves
• High-visibility vest when working around vehicle traffic

Detail Department

• Chemical-resistant gloves
• Eye protection
• Slip-resistant footwear

Body Shop

• Respiratory protection
• Welding helmet
• Face shield
• Hearing protection
• Protective clothing
• Safety gloves
• Steel-toe boots

Employee Training Matters

Providing PPE is only one part of an effective safety program.

Employees should receive training on:

• When PPE is required
• How to properly wear and adjust PPE
• PPE limitations
• Cleaning and maintenance
• Storage procedures
• When equipment should be replaced

Regular refresher training helps reinforce safe work habits and encourages consistent PPE use.

Common PPE Mistakes at Auto Dealerships

OSHA inspections frequently uncover issues such as:

• Employees not wearing required eye protection
• Using damaged or scratched safety glasses
• Wearing the wrong type of gloves for chemical exposure
• Failing to replace worn PPE
• Missing hazard assessments
• Inadequate employee training
• Respirator use without medical evaluations or fit testing

Correcting these issues before an OSHA inspection helps protect both employees and the business.

Building a Strong PPE Program

An effective PPE program goes beyond checking a compliance box. It demonstrates a dealership’s commitment to employee safety while reducing workplace injuries and minimizing costly downtime.

By conducting regular hazard assessments, selecting the proper protective equipment, training employees, and enforcing safe work practices, dealerships can create a safer work environment for technicians, service advisors, detailers, parts personnel, and everyone who works around the service department.

Protecting your employees is one of the best investments your dealership can make. A strong PPE program not only helps maintain OSHA compliance but also supports a culture where safety is part of every job, every day.

Every year, technicians are injured by falling vehicles, equipment failures, and improper lifting procedures. These incidents are often preventable through proper training, routine inspections, and a strong commitment to workplace safety.

Why Vehicle Lift Safety Matters

A vehicle lift failure can result in catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, lost productivity, and costly OSHA citations. Even a minor mistake—such as lifting a vehicle at the wrong points or exceeding a lift’s rated capacity—can create serious risks.

A comprehensive lift safety program helps:

• Prevent technician injuries and fatalities
• Reduce equipment damage and costly repairs
• Improve shop efficiency
• Maintain OSHA compliance
• Extend the service life of expensive shop equipment
• Reduce workers’ compensation claims

Common Causes of Vehicle Lift Accidents

Many lift-related incidents occur because of avoidable mistakes, including:

• Overloading the lift beyond its rated capacity
• Improper vehicle positioning
• Incorrect placement of lift arms or adapters
• Failure to inspect lifts before use
• Worn or damaged cables, chains, or hydraulic components
• Inadequate employee training
• Bypassing manufacturer safety devices
• Poor housekeeping around lift areas

Routine inspections and proper operating procedures dramatically reduce these risks.

Daily Lift Inspection Checklist

Before using a vehicle lift, technicians should perform a quick visual inspection that includes:

• Checking for hydraulic leaks
• Inspecting cables, chains, and pulleys for wear
• Looking for damaged or bent lift arms
• Verifying locking mechanisms engage properly
• Inspecting adapters and pads for excessive wear
• Ensuring safety decals remain legible
• Confirming the work area is free of oil, tools, and debris

Any lift with damaged or malfunctioning components should be removed from service until repaired.

Safe Vehicle Lifting Practices

Following consistent procedures helps ensure every lift is performed safely.

Verify Vehicle Weight

Always know the vehicle’s weight and confirm it does not exceed the lift’s rated capacity.

Position the Vehicle Correctly

Center the vehicle between the lift posts and use the manufacturer’s recommended lifting points. Incorrect positioning can cause the vehicle to become unstable.

Inspect Contact Points

Ensure lift pads make secure contact with the designated lifting locations before raising the vehicle.

Raise Slowly

Lift the vehicle a few inches first, then stop to verify stability before continuing to full working height.

Engage Mechanical Locks

Never rely solely on hydraulic pressure. Once the desired height is reached, lower the lift onto its mechanical safety locks before working underneath.

Keep the Area Clear

No one should stand beneath or near a vehicle while it is being raised or lowered.

Shop Equipment Safety Beyond Vehicle Lifts

Vehicle lifts are only one part of an overall equipment safety program. Automotive shops also rely on equipment that requires regular inspection and maintenance, including:

• Tire changers
• Wheel balancers
• Air compressors
• Hydraulic jacks
• Jack stands
• Battery chargers
• Brake lathes
• Parts washers
• Pressure washers
• Welding equipment
• Shop presses
• Engine hoists

Each piece of equipment should be inspected according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and removed from service if defects are found.

Employee Training Is Essential

Even the safest equipment becomes dangerous when operators are not properly trained.

Training should include:

• Proper lift operation
• Vehicle lifting points
• Equipment capacity limits
• Daily inspection procedures
• Lockout/Tagout procedures when servicing equipment
• Hazard recognition
• Emergency response procedures

New technicians should receive hands-on instruction before operating lifts independently, while experienced employees should participate in periodic refresher training.

Preventive Maintenance Saves Money

Preventive maintenance not only improves safety but also reduces unexpected downtime and expensive repairs.

A maintenance program should include:

• Scheduled inspections
• Lubrication of moving components
• Hydraulic system maintenance
• Replacement of worn cables and chains
• Safety lock testing
• Annual professional inspections where recommended by the manufacturer

Maintaining service records also demonstrates a proactive commitment to workplace safety during inspections or audits.

OSHA Expectations

While OSHA does not have a single standard dedicated exclusively to vehicle lifts, employers are required under the Occupational Safety and Health Act’s General Duty Clause to provide employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards. In addition, shops should follow applicable OSHA regulations covering machine guarding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), hazard communication, and lockout/tagout procedures when servicing equipment.

Following manufacturer instructions, maintaining equipment, and documenting inspections are key components of an effective safety program.

Build a Culture of Safety

Safety is more than a checklist—it is a daily commitment. Encourage technicians to report damaged equipment, stop work when unsafe conditions exist, and never bypass safety features to save time.

Regular safety meetings, documented inspections, and ongoing training create a workplace where employees feel responsible for protecting themselves and their coworkers.

Flying debris, wheel explosions, entanglement, and contact with rotating grinding wheels can cause severe injuries in just a fraction of a second. OSHA requires employers to protect workers from these hazards through proper machine guarding, equipment maintenance, and employee training.

A comprehensive grinder safety program helps prevent injuries while ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations.

Why Grinder Safety Matters

Grinding wheels rotate at thousands of revolutions per minute. If a wheel is damaged, improperly mounted, or used incorrectly, it can shatter without warning and send fragments flying at high speeds.

Common injuries include:

• Eye injuries from flying sparks and metal fragments
• Cuts and lacerations
• Hand and finger injuries
• Burns from hot metal
• Hearing damage from prolonged noise exposure
• Severe injuries caused by exploding grinding wheels

Most grinder-related accidents can be prevented through routine inspections, proper guarding, and safe work practices.

OSHA Requirements for Machine Guarding

OSHA requires machinery to be equipped with guards that protect employees from hazards such as rotating parts, flying chips, sparks, and accidental contact with moving components.

For bench and pedestal grinders, machine guarding typically includes:

• Wheel guards that enclose the grinding wheel
• Adjustable tongue guards (spark guards)
• Properly adjusted work rests
• Side guards where required
• Eye shields designed to reduce exposure to flying particles

Machine guards should never be removed or modified while equipment is in service.

Inspect the Grinder Before Every Use

Technicians should perform a quick inspection before operating any grinder.

Check for:

• Cracked or damaged grinding wheels
• Loose mounting hardware
• Excessive wheel wear
• Missing guards
• Damaged electrical cords
• Proper operation of the power switch
• Stable mounting to the workbench or pedestal

Any grinder found to be damaged should be removed from service until repairs are completed.

Proper Adjustment of Work Rests

One of the most overlooked grinder safety requirements involves the work rest.

OSHA recommends maintaining the work rest no more than 1/8 inch from the grinding wheel. Larger gaps can allow workpieces to become wedged between the wheel and the rest, potentially causing the wheel to shatter or pull the operator’s hand into the rotating surface.

Work rests should be adjusted whenever the wheel diameter changes due to wear.

Adjust the Tongue Guard Correctly

The adjustable tongue guard, sometimes called the spark guard, helps contain fragments if a grinding wheel fails.

The opening between the tongue guard and the grinding wheel should never exceed 1/4 inch.

As the grinding wheel wears, the guard should be readjusted to maintain the proper clearance.

Perform the Ring Test

Before installing a new vitrified grinding wheel, operators should perform a ring test.

A ring test involves gently tapping the wheel with a non-metallic object to detect hidden cracks.

A clear, metallic ringing sound typically indicates the wheel is intact, while a dull sound may indicate internal damage.

Never install or use a cracked grinding wheel.

Use the Right Grinding Wheel

Not every grinding wheel is designed for every application.

Always verify:

• The wheel is rated for the grinder’s operating speed
• The wheel is designed for the material being ground
• The wheel size matches manufacturer specifications
• The wheel is installed according to manufacturer instructions

Using the wrong wheel greatly increases the risk of failure.

Wear Proper Personal Protective Equipment

Even with proper machine guarding, employees should wear appropriate PPE when operating grinders.

Recommended PPE includes:

• Safety glasses with side shields
• Face shields for additional protection
• Hearing protection
• Appropriate work gloves when handling material (while ensuring they do not create an entanglement hazard)
• Protective footwear

Loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair should always be secured before operating rotating equipment.

Safe Operating Practices

Employees should follow safe procedures every time a grinder is used.

Best practices include:

• Stand to one side when starting the grinder until full speed is reached
• Allow the wheel to reach operating speed before grinding
• Apply only moderate pressure
• Grind only on the wheel surface designed for that purpose
• Keep both hands on the workpiece whenever practical
• Never force material into the wheel
• Never use excessive side pressure unless the wheel is specifically designed for side grinding
• Turn off the grinder and allow the wheel to stop completely before making adjustments

Small habits like these significantly reduce injury risks.

Maintain Good Housekeeping

Grinding operations create sparks, metal dust, and debris that can create additional hazards.

Shops should:

• Keep combustible materials away from grinding areas
• Clean up metal filings regularly
• Maintain adequate ventilation
• Keep floors free of trip hazards
• Store grinding wheels in a dry location to prevent damage

Good housekeeping improves both safety and equipment life.

Employee Training Is Critical

Every employee who operates a bench or pedestal grinder should receive training covering:

• Grinder hazards
• Machine guarding requirements
• Wheel inspection procedures
• Proper PPE
• Safe operating techniques
• Emergency shutdown procedures
• Hazard reporting

Refresher training helps reinforce safe work habits and keeps employees up to date with company procedures.

Preventive Maintenance Protects Employees

Routine maintenance keeps grinders operating safely and extends their service life.

A preventive maintenance program should include:

• Inspecting guards and shields
• Verifying proper wheel alignment
• Checking electrical components
• Replacing worn grinding wheels
• Lubricating moving parts where applicable
• Testing switches and emergency shutoffs
• Maintaining inspection and repair records

Equipment that cannot be safely repaired should be removed from service.

Creating a Safer Automotive Shop

Bench and pedestal grinders may seem like simple shop tools, but they deserve the same level of attention as vehicle lifts, presses, and other powered equipment. Proper machine guarding, routine inspections, employee training, and consistent maintenance all play an important role in preventing injuries.

When technicians understand the hazards and follow established safety procedures, automotive shops can significantly reduce the risk of accidents while maintaining a productive work environment.

A well-managed Hazard Communication Program not only helps keep employees safe, but it can also reduce workplace injuries, improve OSHA compliance, and minimize liability.

What Is Hazard Communication?

Hazard Communication is OSHA’s system for ensuring employees understand the chemicals they work with and know how to protect themselves from potential hazards.

Every dealership that uses hazardous chemicals—including service departments, collision repair shops, detail departments, and parts departments—must develop a Hazard Communication Program that identifies chemical hazards and provides employees with the information they need to work safely.

Does Your Dealership Need a Hazard Communication Program?

In almost every case, the answer is yes.

If your dealership stores or uses products such as:

• Brake cleaner
• Carburetor cleaner
• Engine degreasers
• Paints and paint thinners
• Body fillers
• Adhesives
• Battery acid
• Windshield washer fluid
• Refrigerants
• Fuel additives
• Solvents
• Lubricants
• Cleaning chemicals

OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard likely applies to your business.

Key Requirements of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard

1. Maintain a Current Chemical Inventory

The first step is identifying every hazardous chemical used throughout your facility.

This inventory should include products used in:

• Service departments
• Body shops
• Detail departments
• Parts departments
• Maintenance areas
• Janitorial operations

Keeping your inventory current makes it easier to manage compliance and identify potential hazards.

2. Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Every hazardous chemical must have a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) supplied by the manufacturer.

These documents provide important information including:

• Health hazards
• Physical hazards
• Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Safe handling procedures
• First aid measures
• Spill response procedures
• Fire-fighting recommendations
• Storage requirements

Employees must be able to access SDSs quickly during every work shift without having to ask a supervisor.

3. Properly Label Chemical Containers

OSHA requires that all hazardous chemical containers be properly labeled.

Labels should identify:

• Product name
• Hazard warnings
• Precautionary statements
• Manufacturer information

Secondary containers used for daily operations must also be labeled unless they are used immediately by the employee who transferred the product.

4. Train Employees

One of the most frequently cited OSHA violations is inadequate employee training.

Training should cover:

• How to read Safety Data Sheets
• Understanding GHS chemical labels
• Chemical hazards in the workplace
• Safe handling procedures
• Required PPE
• Spill response
• Emergency procedures

Training should occur:

• When employees are hired
• Whenever new hazardous chemicals are introduced
• When job duties change
• Whenever significant hazards are identified

5. Develop a Written Hazard Communication Program

OSHA requires employers to maintain a written Hazard Communication Program.

This document typically explains:

• How chemicals are inventoried
• Where SDSs are located
• Employee training procedures
• Labeling practices
• Responsibilities of supervisors and employees
• Procedures for introducing new chemicals

The written program should be reviewed periodically and updated as workplace conditions change.

Common Hazard Communication Mistakes at Auto Dealerships

Many dealerships unknowingly expose themselves to OSHA citations by making simple compliance mistakes, including:

• Missing or outdated Safety Data Sheets
• Unlabeled spray bottles or transfer containers
• Employees unfamiliar with SDS locations
• Incomplete chemical inventories
• Lack of documented employee training
• Written Hazard Communication Programs that haven’t been updated in years

These issues are often easy to correct once they’re identified.

Benefits of a Strong Hazard Communication Program

An effective HazCom program provides benefits that go beyond regulatory compliance.

Dealerships with well-organized safety programs often experience:

• Fewer workplace injuries
• Better employee awareness
• Improved chemical handling practices
• Faster emergency response
• Reduced workers’ compensation claims
• Lower liability exposure
• Increased OSHA compliance confidence

Most importantly, employees can perform their jobs knowing they understand the hazards around them and how to work safely.

How AutoRisk Can Help

Managing OSHA compliance can be challenging, especially for busy automotive businesses. AutoRisk helps dealerships evaluate their Hazard Communication Programs, organize Safety Data Sheets, review chemical inventories, improve employee training, and strengthen workplace safety practices.

Whether you’re building a program from the ground up or updating an existing one, we can help simplify OSHA compliance while reducing workplace risk.

Need Help with OSHA Hazard Communication?

If you’re unsure whether your dealership’s Hazard Communication Program meets OSHA requirements, AutoRisk can help. Contact our team to learn more about OSHA compliance services, workplace safety programs, and risk management solutions designed specifically for the automotive industry.

Although the regulation itself is brief, compliance involves much more than simply installing an eyewash station. Employers must ensure the equipment is properly located, regularly maintained, and readily accessible whenever a chemical emergency occurs.

What Does OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151 Require?

OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.151(c) states:

“Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.”

In simple terms, if employees work with chemicals that could damage the eyes or skin, emergency flushing equipment must be available nearby.

When Is an Eyewash Station Required?

An emergency eyewash station may be required anywhere employees handle chemicals capable of causing eye injuries. Common examples include:

• Battery charging and maintenance areas
• Automotive repair and service departments
• Manufacturing facilities
• Laboratories
• Chemical storage areas
• Industrial cleaning operations
• Paint and coating facilities
• Maintenance shops
• Water treatment facilities

The need for an eyewash station is determined through a workplace hazard assessment and by reviewing the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the chemicals used.

When Is a Safety Shower Required?

A full-body emergency drenching shower is generally required when employees could be exposed to chemicals that may burn or contamingly affect large areas of the body.

Examples include:

• Handling concentrated acids or caustics
• Mixing industrial chemicals
• Bulk chemical transfer operations
• Hazardous liquid dispensing
• Chemical processing operations

In many workplaces, a combination eyewash and safety shower provides the best level of protection.

ANSI Z358.1: The Standard OSHA References

While OSHA’s regulation provides the legal requirement, employers commonly follow ANSI/ISEA Z358.1, the nationally recognized standard for emergency eyewash and shower equipment.

ANSI recommends that emergency equipment:

• Be reachable within approximately 10 seconds.
• Be located on the same level as the hazard.
• Remain unobstructed at all times.
• Deliver clean, tepid flushing water.
• Operate hands-free after activation.
• Be tested and maintained regularly.

Although ANSI is technically voluntary, OSHA frequently references it when evaluating whether employers have provided “suitable facilities.”

Inspection and Maintenance Requirements

Installing an eyewash station is only the beginning. Regular inspections help ensure the equipment functions properly when an emergency occurs.

Routine maintenance should include:

• Weekly activation of plumbed eyewash stations to verify operation and flush stagnant water.
• Annual inspections to confirm compliance with manufacturer recommendations and ANSI performance requirements.
• Checking water flow, spray pattern, and activation controls.
• Ensuring stations remain clearly identified and unobstructed.
• Verifying water temperature remains suitable for emergency flushing.

Maintenance records should be documented as part of the facility’s safety program.

Employee Training Is Critical

Employees should know:

• Where emergency eyewash stations are located.
• How to activate the equipment.
• How long flushing should continue (typically at least 15 minutes for many chemical exposures).
• When to seek immediate medical attention after exposure.
• How to report the incident and preserve information about the chemical involved.

Training should be included during new employee orientation and reinforced whenever new chemical hazards are introduced.

Common OSHA Compliance Mistakes

Many employers unknowingly create compliance issues by:

• Blocking access with equipment or storage.
• Installing stations too far from the hazard.
• Failing to conduct weekly inspections.
• Using stations with inadequate water flow.
• Allowing water to become contaminated.
• Not providing employee training.
• Assuming portable bottles satisfy OSHA requirements where plumbed equipment is necessary.

Regular workplace inspections can identify these issues before they become costly OSHA violations—or worse, contribute to a serious employee injury.

Building a Safer Workplace

Emergency eyewash and drenching facilities are among the most important pieces of emergency equipment in workplaces where hazardous chemicals are used. Proper placement, routine maintenance, and employee training can dramatically reduce the severity of injuries and help ensure compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.151.

Employers should regularly evaluate their workplace hazards, review Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals in use, and verify that emergency flushing equipment remains readily available, fully operational, and capable of protecting employees when every second matters.

A proactive approach to eyewash and drenching facility compliance not only helps meet OSHA requirements but also demonstrates a commitment to protecting employees and maintaining a safer workplace.

For automotive dealerships and repair facilities, understanding OSHA’s recordkeeping rules is essential. Even businesses with strong safety programs may face citations if workplace injuries are not properly documented or reported.

Knowing what must be recorded, what must be reported, and how long records must be maintained can help your dealership avoid penalties while building a safer workplace.

Why OSHA Recordkeeping Matters

OSHA uses injury and illness records to identify workplace trends and evaluate industry safety performance. Employers can also use these records to identify recurring hazards, improve training, and reduce workplace injuries.

Accurate recordkeeping helps dealerships:

• Demonstrate OSHA compliance
• Identify injury trends
• Improve workplace safety programs
• Reduce workers’ compensation costs
• Support insurance claims
• Measure the effectiveness of safety initiatives

Good records are more than a regulatory requirement—they’re valuable tools for continuous improvement.

Which Employers Must Keep OSHA Injury Records?

Not every employer is required to maintain OSHA injury and illness logs. Generally, employers with more than 10 employees that are not classified as low-hazard industries must keep OSHA injury and illness records.

Many automotive businesses—including dealerships, service centers, body shops, fleet maintenance facilities, and tire retailers—are required to maintain these records because of the nature of their operations.

Even employers who are exempt from routinely keeping OSHA logs must still report certain serious workplace incidents to OSHA.

OSHA Recordkeeping Forms

OSHA requires covered employers to maintain three primary forms.

OSHA Form 300 – Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses

This form records each recordable workplace injury or illness throughout the year.

Information includes:

• Employee job title
• Date of injury
• Description of the incident
• Nature of the injury or illness
• Days away from work
• Job restrictions or transfers

The OSHA 300 Log provides an ongoing record of workplace incidents.

OSHA Form 301 – Injury and Illness Incident Report

A Form 301 provides detailed information about each individual recordable incident.

It includes:

• How the injury occurred
• Equipment involved
• Medical treatment received
• Location of the incident
• Contributing factors

This report should be completed promptly after a recordable injury occurs.

OSHA Form 300A – Annual Summary

At the end of each calendar year, employers must prepare the OSHA 300A Summary.

This form summarizes:

• Total injuries
• Total illnesses
• Total days away from work
• Restricted-duty cases
• Number of employees
• Total hours worked

The summary must be certified by a company executive before it is posted.

When Must OSHA Records Be Posted?

Employers required to maintain OSHA records must post the OSHA Form 300A Annual Summary in a visible location where employees normally view workplace notices.

The summary must be posted each year from February 1 through April 30, even if no recordable injuries occurred during the previous year.

What Is a Recordable Injury?

Not every workplace injury must be entered on the OSHA log.

Generally, an injury or illness is recordable if it is work-related and results in one or more of the following:

• Death
• Days away from work
• Restricted work duties
• Job transfer
• Medical treatment beyond first aid
• Loss of consciousness
• Diagnosis of a significant injury or illness by a licensed healthcare professional

Examples in automotive service departments may include:

• Back injuries from lifting heavy components
• Chemical burns from battery acid
• Eye injuries from flying debris
• Lacerations requiring stitches
• Fractures from slips or falls
• Crush injuries involving vehicle lifts

Understanding OSHA’s recordability criteria helps ensure accurate reporting.

Injuries That Must Be Reported Directly to OSHA

Some serious incidents require immediate notification to OSHA, regardless of whether the employer maintains OSHA logs.

Employers must report:

• Any work-related fatality within 8 hours
• Any work-related inpatient hospitalization within 24 hours
• Any work-related amputation within 24 hours
• Any work-related loss of an eye within 24 hours

These reporting requirements are separate from maintaining OSHA recordkeeping forms.

Common Recordkeeping Mistakes

OSHA frequently cites employers for simple documentation errors, including:

• Failing to record injuries within the required timeframe
• Misclassifying recordable injuries
• Incorrectly counting lost workdays
• Missing annual postings
• Incomplete incident descriptions
• Failing to maintain records for the required retention period
• Not updating records when injury outcomes change

Routine audits of OSHA logs can help prevent these mistakes.

Record Retention Requirements

OSHA requires employers to retain OSHA injury and illness records for five years following the end of the calendar year they cover.

If new information becomes available about a recorded injury during that period, employers must update the records accordingly.

Keeping organized records also simplifies OSHA inspections and insurance audits.

How Accurate Records Improve Safety

OSHA recordkeeping is more than paperwork. Injury records reveal patterns that help employers prevent future incidents.

For example, dealerships may discover trends such as:

• Frequent slips in wash bays
• Repeated hand injuries during brake repairs
• Back strains from tire handling
• Eye injuries during grinding operations
• Chemical exposure in detail departments

Analyzing these trends allows management to improve training, modify work procedures, and invest in better equipment before additional injuries occur.

Best Practices for OSHA Recordkeeping

Successful dealerships establish clear procedures for documenting workplace injuries.

Best practices include:

• Report all injuries immediately
• Investigate every incident thoroughly
• Train supervisors on OSHA recordkeeping requirements
• Maintain complete documentation
• Review injury logs regularly for trends
• Conduct annual audits of OSHA records
• Keep employees informed about reporting procedures

Consistency is the key to maintaining accurate records and demonstrating compliance.

An effective SDS management program helps employees understand the risks associated with the products they use, ensures quick access to emergency information, and keeps your dealership in compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

What Is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a standardized document that provides detailed information about a hazardous chemical. Chemical manufacturers and distributors are required to supply an SDS for each hazardous product they sell.

An SDS contains important information such as:

• Product identification
• Hazard classifications
• Chemical ingredients
• Safe handling procedures
• Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Storage recommendations
• First aid measures
• Firefighting procedures
• Spill cleanup instructions
• Toxicological information
• Disposal considerations

Employees should know how to locate and interpret an SDS before working with any hazardous chemical.

Why SDS Management Matters

Proper SDS management helps dealerships and repair facilities:

• Protect employees from chemical exposure
• Ensure OSHA compliance
• Improve emergency response
• Reduce workplace injuries and illnesses
• Support employee training
• Simplify OSHA inspections
• Improve overall workplace safety

Without current and accessible SDSs, employees may not know the hazards associated with the products they use or how to respond if an accident occurs.

OSHA Requirements for SDS Management

Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200), employers must:

• Maintain an SDS for every hazardous chemical used in the workplace
• Ensure SDSs are readily accessible to employees during every work shift
• Train employees on chemical hazards and SDS use
• Maintain a current inventory of hazardous chemicals
• Ensure chemical containers are properly labeled

Failure to comply with these requirements is one of the most common OSHA violations across many industries, including automotive repair.

Common Hazardous Chemicals Found in Automotive Shops

Automotive service departments use dozens of hazardous products every day.

Common examples include:

• Brake cleaners
• Carburetor cleaners
• Parts washer solvents
• Engine oils
• Transmission fluids
• Gear oils
• Coolants and antifreeze
• Battery acid
• Windshield washer fluid
• Fuel additives
• Aerosol lubricants
• Paints and primers
• Body fillers
• Adhesives
• Degreasers
• Glass cleaners
• Welding gases
• Refrigerants
• Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF)
• Fuel system cleaners

Every hazardous product should have a corresponding SDS available to employees.

Organizing Your SDS Library

An SDS program is only effective if employees can quickly locate the information they need.

Best practices include:

• Maintain a complete SDS for every hazardous chemical
• Organize SDSs alphabetically or by department
• Remove outdated versions when new SDSs are received
• Ensure every product listed on the chemical inventory has a matching SDS
• Make SDSs available during all work shifts
• Regularly audit the SDS library for accuracy

Many dealerships now use electronic SDS management systems that allow employees to search for documents instantly.

Paper vs. Electronic SDS Systems

OSHA allows employers to maintain SDSs electronically, provided employees have immediate access without barriers.

Electronic systems offer several advantages:

• Faster searches
• Automatic updates
• Easier organization
• Reduced paperwork
• Centralized document management
• Access from multiple locations

However, employers should have a backup plan in case of power outages or network failures to ensure SDSs remain accessible during emergencies.

Employee Training Is Essential

Simply maintaining SDSs is not enough. Employees must know how to use them.

Training should include:

• How to locate SDSs
• Understanding hazard classifications
• Reading SDS sections
• Required PPE
• Safe handling procedures
• Spill response
• First aid information
• Emergency procedures

New employees should receive Hazard Communication training before working with hazardous chemicals, and refresher training should be provided whenever new chemical hazards are introduced.

Understanding the 16 SDS Sections

Modern Safety Data Sheets follow the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) format and contain 16 standardized sections.

These sections include:

1. Identification
2. Hazard Identification
3. Composition/Information on Ingredients
4. First Aid Measures
5. Fire-Fighting Measures
6. Accidental Release Measures
7. Handling and Storage
8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
9. Physical and Chemical Properties
10. Stability and Reactivity
11. Toxicological Information
12. Ecological Information
13. Disposal Considerations
14. Transport Information
15. Regulatory Information
16. Other Information

Understanding these sections allows employees to quickly find critical safety information during routine work or emergencies.

Common SDS Management Mistakes

Many OSHA citations result from simple recordkeeping or organizational issues.

Common mistakes include:

• Missing SDSs for products currently in use
• Outdated SDS versions
• Chemicals without labels
• Employees unable to locate SDSs
• Failure to train employees
• Chemical inventory not matching available SDSs
• Contractors bringing chemicals onsite without providing SDSs

Regular audits can identify and correct these issues before they become compliance problems.

Integrating SDS Management with Your Hazard Communication Program

An SDS library is only one component of a comprehensive Hazard Communication Program.

A complete program should also include:

• A written Hazard Communication Plan
• A current hazardous chemical inventory
• Proper container labeling
• Employee training
• Procedures for introducing new chemicals
• Periodic program reviews

When these elements work together, employees have the information they need to work safely around hazardous materials.

Best Practices for Automotive Dealerships

Successful dealerships make SDS management part of their daily operations.

Consider these best practices:

• Review chemical inventories regularly.
• Request updated SDSs whenever new products are purchased.
• Remove chemicals that are no longer used.
• Conduct periodic audits of the SDS library.
• Train all new employees before they begin working with hazardous chemicals.
• Ensure every service department knows where SDSs are located.
• Include SDS reviews during safety meetings.

These simple steps can significantly improve compliance and reduce workplace risks.