Automotive Lift Safety Awareness

Summary

This video emphasizes the critical nature of safely operating an automotive lift, highlighting the importance of proper training, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and regular inspections. It outlines the correct procedures for lifting a vehicle, including checking the lift's capacity, ensuring the bay is clean, and using the correct lifting points. The script also stresses the need for caution during the lift process, the use of safety equipment, and the avoidance of common hazards. The message is clear: only trained technicians should perform vehicle lifts, following strict safety protocols to prevent damage and ensure the well-being of all involved.

Takeaways

• 🔧 Always ensure you are properly trained before operating an automotive lift.
• 📖 Read and understand the operator's manual provided by the lift manufacturer.
• 🔍 Regularly inspect your lift for safety features, maintenance, and operation as recommended by the manufacturer.
• 🛠️ Perform periodic inspections and maintenance, including daily checks of cables, chains, and safety latches.
• ⚙️ Check the hydraulic fluid and torque of all fasteners, and ensure the lift is equalized properly.
• 🚫 Never lift a vehicle that exceeds the maximum capacity of the lift or has a heavy load inside.
• 🚗 When using a twin post lift, identify the vehicle's recommended lifting points and ensure they are correctly aligned.
• 🔄 Be aware of the vehicle's center of gravity and adjust lifting points accordingly for different vehicle types.
• 🚧 Use appropriately rated jack stands for heavy lifting or when removing large components, and always raise them to vehicle height.
• 📢 Communicate with colleagues when lowering the lift and ensure the area is clear before proceeding.
• ⛔ Follow safety guidelines strictly: never lift with passengers inside, never use a damaged lift, and always tag out a lift with suspected issues.

Q & A

What are the risks associated with using an automotive lift?

The risks include potential damage to customer vehicles, injury, or even death to technicians if proper procedures are not followed.

Why is it important to read the operator's manual provided by the lift manufacturer?

The operator's manual contains crucial information on safety features, maintenance, inspection, and operation of the lift, which is essential for safe usage.

How often should an automotive lift be inspected by a qualified lift serviceman?

An automotive lift should be inspected by a qualified lift serviceman at least once a year, as indicated by the inspection decal on the lift.

What are some daily maintenance checks that should be performed on an automotive lift?

Daily checks should include examining cables and chains for wear, ensuring safety latches engage and disengage fully, and checking the operation of arm restraints on twin post lifts.

Why is it crucial to check the vehicle's center of gravity before lifting it?

The vehicle's center of gravity affects its balance on the lift. Incorrect positioning can lead to instability, increasing the risk of the vehicle falling off the lift.

What should be done if a vehicle on a twin post lift does not align properly during lifting?

If the lifting points do not remain aligned, the lift should be stopped, and the vehicle should be checked and repositioned before continuing to lift.

What steps should be taken before lowering a lift after work is completed?

Before lowering, remove jack stands, tools, transmission jacks, and oil caddies. Clean up any oil spills, and ensure the area around the lift is clear.

Why should the lift be slightly raised before disengaging the locks during the lowering process?

Raising the lift slightly ensures that the locks are disengaged safely without risking the vehicle’s stability, allowing for a smooth lowering process.

What should you do if a lift is suspected to have a problem?

The lift should be tagged out and not used until it has been inspected and cleared by a qualified factory-trained lift specialist.

What are some safety precautions to never violate when using a twin post lift?

Never lift a vehicle with a passenger inside, never allow customers in the Bay Area, never use less than four arms on the lift, and never use homemade adapters like blocks of wood or bricks.