Working at an automotive dealership can be a lot of fun, and who doesnt love that new car smell? Still, the surroundings offer many opportunities for accidents and injuries that would trigger a severe and costly car dealers workers compensation claim if one isnt careful. Some of the hazards are obvious and easy to avoid, while others are more subtle and often require training to instill awareness. Nevertheless, there are some basics that the wide range of staff in the business should observe. From service technicians to body shop workers, and even those in administrative and sales positions, employees must be vigilant to avoid the most common and serious kinds of injury that occur in this type of environment:

Slips and falls, trips and twists

Straining to carry or lift objects, car parts, furniture, and other items that are too heavy to be safely carried

Repetitive motion injuries, particularly involving the wrists and hands (this is a big one for employees who spend much of the day typinge.g., administrative assistants or data entry clerks in the service department or stockroom

Accidents involving vehicles driven by sales representatives, shuttle drivers and valets

Major lacerations and deep cuts requiring medical attention

Plenty of other incidents commonly occur in this environment that are less damaging yet still cause discomfort. They include:

Small cuts

Bruises

Minor burns

Small lacerations

The eyes have it: exposure to injury, that is

The eyes warrant their own discussion. Serious eye injuries can be sustained from misuse of a compressed air can, exposure to caustic chemicals and liquids, or (for service techs) debris falling from a vehicle suspended on a hoist into the eyes. Mandate the wearing of safety goggles and spare someones sight at the most--and pain, medical attention, and time away from the job at the least.

Simple ways to reduce the chance of workplace accidents

Be mindful that injuries often result when hazardous working conditions, dangerous procedures, and careless behavior intersect. Each of those components must and can be resolved to create a safe workplace. Devise a comprehensive safety program that has the support of management all the way down to the janitorial staff. Incorporate safety training as a portion of a performance review to ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Work with a professional insurance agent to devise a car dealers workers compensation program that will offer protection for both the employees and the employer.