Mechanic Fact Sheet

WHAT DO MECHANICS DO?

Mechanics work in many different industries including aviation, automotive, commercial, industrial or residential settings. Some of their main duties are to:

  • Install, repair and maintain mechanical systems.
  • Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients.
  • Use, clean and maintain various equipment and machines.
  • Supervise apprentices or other workers.

What are some health and safety issues for mechanics?

  • Mechanics work in a variety of settings and may be exposed to several hazards, including:
  • Exposure to chemicals, solvents, solder, and other products.
  • Exposure to gasoline or diesel exhaust.
  • Risk of electrical shock or burns.
  • Fire risk from fuels and other products.
  • Burns from battery acid, hot surfaces, exhaust, etc.
  • Potentially working in confined spaces.
  • Welding hazards, including UV radiation.
  • Working with compressed air.
  • Working near rotating parts (being caught in or between).
  • Working with explosive items, such as air bags.
  • Bursting of tires while repairing or installing.
  • Extreme temperatures.
  • Risk of pain or injury from awkward positions, repetitive manual tasks, or lifting heavy objects.
  • Risk of falling objects (including the vehicle) when working under vehicles, or with jacks, hoists, or hydraulic lifts.
  • Possibility of working at heights.
  • Risk of eye injury from flying particles.
  • Risk of hand injuries.
  • Slips, trips and falls.
  • Working with various hand tools, power tools and equipment.
  • Stress.
  • Shift work or extended work days.
  • Working alone.
  • Possible exposure to asbestos.
  • Exposure to noise.
  • Dealing with hostile customers.

What are some preventive measures for mechanics?

  • Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
  • Work safely with chemicals and related products.
  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment for the task, including footwear.
  • Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
  • Avoid awkward positions, and repetitive tasks, or take frequent breaks.
  • Learn safe lifting techniques.
  • Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.
  • Inspect work area before work starts to identify potential hazards and their controls.
  • Follow workplace policies and procedures relating to preventing workplace violence and harassment

Please also see the series of OSH Answers fact sheets on how to work safely in a garage which includes autobody repair, batteries, fuel safety, hydraulic lifts, inflating tires, servicing vehicles and other topics.

What are some good general safe work practices?

  • Follow correct procedures for:
  • Working in a Garage
  • Electrical safety
  • Lock-out/tag-out
  • Confined spaces entry
  • Working at heights
  • Working with ladders
  • Lifting
  • Working with hand tools, and power tools
  • Fire safety
  • Welding and Hot Work
  • Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and SDSs.
  • Know how to report a hazard.
  • Follow good housekeeping procedures.
  • Follow company safety rules.

Source: © Copyright 1997-2021 CCOHS