Garage Director fined more than £16,000 after customer was crushed by their own car?

Customer Seriously Injured in Vehicle Lift Accident: Workshop Safety Lessons

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A serious incident at a vehicle repair garage has highlighted the importance of safe vehicle lifting procedures, appropriate equipment maintenance and effective workshop safety management.

According to a report published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a customer suffered life-changing injuries after a vehicle fell from a lift at Silver Street Service Garage in north London.

The customer had brought a company vehicle to the garage for servicing and was asked to assist with the work. During the incident, the vehicle fell from the lift while he was standing beneath it.

An HSE investigation identified failures relating to the protection of members of the public from health and safety risks. The garage and its director were subsequently ordered to pay more than £16,000.

The importance of vehicle lift safety

Vehicle lifts are essential equipment in modern automotive workshops, but they must be selected, installed, maintained and operated correctly.

Incidents of this nature demonstrate why workshop operators should ensure that appropriate safety procedures are in place and that staff understand the risks associated with lifting vehicles.

Key considerations include:

• Equipment inspections: Vehicle lifts should be inspected and maintained in accordance with applicable requirements and the manufacturer's instructions.
• Safe operation: Operators should be appropriately trained and follow the correct lifting and lowering procedures.
• Vehicle positioning: Vehicles must be positioned correctly, with lifting points and load limits observed.
• Safety systems: Locks, restraints and other safety features must be maintained and used correctly.
• Workshop access: Customers and other members of the public must be protected from hazardous work areas.

How AXGE can help

AX Garage Equipment (AXGE) supplies, services and repairs garage equipment, including vehicle lifts and specialist workshop equipment.

We understand that equipment reliability and appropriate maintenance are essential to safe and efficient workshop operations.

Whether you require advice on vehicle lift servicing, equipment maintenance or workshop equipment requirements, our team can help you identify the appropriate support for your business.

If you have concerns about the condition or safe operation of a vehicle lift, stop using the equipment where necessary and arrange for it to be assessed by a competent professional.

Professional equipment. Expert technical support.

For information about vehicle lift servicing, repairs and garage equipment, contact AX Garage Equipment.

The accident at Silver Street Service Garage in London.