Workplace Safety
Identify hazards before work
Workshop hazards include moving machinery, hot surfaces, rotating parts, high voltage (including hybrid and electric vehicles), stored energy in springs and pressurised systems, and chemical exposure. Risk management means identifying the hazard, assessing the risk, controlling it (eliminate, substitute, isolate, engineer, administrate, PPE) and reviewing. A job safety analysis or pre-start check is a practical tool.
Vehicle-specific safety
Before lifting, confirm jacking points and support with stands rated for the load; never work under a vehicle held only by a jack. Isolate the battery before electrical work, and follow the manufacturer's procedure for high-voltage systems, including lockout/tagout and proving dead. Depressurise fuel and air systems before opening. Support bonnets and hatches, and chock wheels.
Personal and environmental safety
Use PPE appropriate to the task: eye protection for grinding and battery work, gloves for chemicals, hearing protection for air tools, and respiratory protection for paint and dust. Ventilate exhaust fumes and never run engines in enclosed spaces. Store chemicals per SDS and keep them away from ignition sources. Report incidents and near misses.
Traps
Exam questions often present a shortcut that seems efficient but breaches safety, such as using a screwdriver to bridge a starter or working under a vehicle on a jack. Another trap is assuming hybrid systems are safe once the key is off; high-voltage capacitors retain charge. Candidates also forget to check that lifting equipment is rated and inspected.
Rule of thumb
If a task requires a body part under a suspended load, stop. Use stands, locks or blocks before proceeding.
Worked example
A technician needs to replace a fuel filter. Correct sequence: PPE on, engine off and cool, fuel system pressure released per procedure, battery isolated, vehicle supported on stands, spill tray placed, and fuel lines capped.