The biggest danger of automotive lift operation is improper or inadequate training. Although some automotive lifts may appear to be simple to use, it’s important that owners of lifts take the time to properly train their lift operators thoroughly.
Working with a car lift can be hazardous, particularly if the vehicle falls off the lift, so all safety rules should be followed at all times. Once the lift has elevated the car; the danger of falling debris and objects increase. It is important for lift operators to wear safety glasses to protect their eyes from falling dirt and debris as well as hard hats to protect their heads from accidental bumps or falling car parts that might have loosened during the repair process.
Listed below is a general checklist of do’s and don’ts, to keep you safe, when operating your car lift.
Do’s
- Ask for training from your employer before you operate the lift for your first time.
- When you arrive at work, do an inspection of the lift prior to your shift.
- Make sure the lift’s locking devices engage.
- Wear safety glasses for work done under the car.
- Make sure the vehicle is centered and balanced on the lift as described in a service manual.
- If the lift is of the drive-on type, be sure to use chocks behind the wheels.
- Check ceiling clearance before raising trucks and RVs.
- Gently check to see if the car is stable when it is at knee height.
- Clear the area of tools and bystanders before lowering the lift.
Don’ts
- Never raise a vehicle that has occupants.
- Don’t exceed the capacity of the lift.
- Never stand below a vehicle on a lift that does not have the locking devices engaged.
- If vehicle support stands are used (such as in the case when an engine or transmission has been removed), do not lower the vehicle onto the support stands because this might push the car off the lift. Instead, bring the supports up to make solid contact with the vehicle once it has reached the proper height.
- Do not try to repair a faulty lift yourself. Let your supervisor know that the lift needs attention.
At Eagle Equipment we want to make sure our consumers are following automotive lift safety rules. To ensure this our company has taken the time to make a manual to read before installing or operating the lift. Manuals can be accessed on any of our products from their product page online at www.eagleequip.com. We will also be sending a training DVD with the proper use of your lift when you order. The safety of you and your lift operators is very important to us!