PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

A SAFE WORKPLACE IS A BASIC REQUIREMENT

Some recent high-profile cases surrounding the auto industry have pushed workplace safety to the forefront. Combine greater health awareness with the workplace fluidity of the gig economy, and you have a generation of workers who are acutely aware of the presence or absence of measures taken to protect their health, or the failure to.

In the case of auto repair and body shops, protection becomes a full body affair—literally. The fumes from primers, varnishes and aerosols can be absorbed over time, especially through the respiratory system, the eyes and even the skin. This necessitates a variety of personal protective equipment such as properly filtered masks, suits and protective goggles, alongside larger systems. Keeping your shop well-circulated with clean air ensures a comfortable work environment and minimizes the chance of stray dust and particles slowing down your team’s paintwork.

Equipping your shop with dust extractors, ventilators and other protective gear is just as important as quality training and hiring the right people. These are investments that grow over time, attract better workers, and draw more customers—factors that will boost your revenue more than any corner-cutting will.

Dozens of studies from various industries including the skilled trades confirm the same idea —healthy workers are more efficient team members, more productive and reduce workplace disruption. For those who have yet to be convinced, supplying and maintaining safety equipment is a legal obligation. Failure to abide by Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations can result in fines, imprisonment, corporate probation or ‘creative sentences.’ Yes, this is quoted verbatim. Safe workers are confident workers, and here are some products to keep your team at their best.