6 Tips to Ensure You’re Running a Safe Carwash

As a carwash owner or operator, you face a wide range of safety risks. Some you likely think about all the time—customer slips and falls, automobile accidents, employee injuries—while others might not be top of mind. Either way, putting safety first remains essential to both the physical and financial health of your operation.

Create Your Safety Plan

Here are 6 essential safety tips to follow every day:

1. Create a Written Program

When it comes to protecting your customers, employees, and business, thoughtful planning matters. That’s why it’s important to create a written safety program. Review your safety program regularly and talk to your insurance provider about other ways you can protect your operation.

2. Train Your Employees

Make sure every employee understands your safety program, knows how to operate all equipment, and is aware of the correct procedures for emergencies. Instruct employees on proper lifting techniques and work postures, and avoid loose or baggy uniforms that can catch on equipment.

3. Watch for Moving Vehicles

Creating a clear and safe traffic flow for moving vehicles is important for all carwash businesses. Provide simple directions for customers and employees, and make sure employees understand all safety procedures.

4. Protect Against Chemical Exposure

Even mild cleaning solutions can be dangerous in high or concentrated doses or in areas with poor ventilation. Follow usage, storage, and cleanup guidelines to confirm all work and storage areas have proper ventilation.

5. Keep Machinery on Lockdown

Make sure employees understand how to use each specialized equipment in your carwash business and the specific dangers to watch out for. The combination of electricity, water, and chemicals calls for prudent safety techniques. People can lose hands, limbs, or fingers if “lockout-tagout” procedures aren’t followed properly. Ensure your team follows “lockout-tagout” procedures at all times and keep employees up to date on the latest equipment maintenance procedures.

6. Beat the Heat

Make sure your staff, especially your managers, know the warning signs of heat stroke. Require hydration breaks and don’t let employees work in extreme conditions longer than necessary. Add heat stroke awareness training to your new employee training and your employee handbook.

Download the 6 Carwash Safety Tips

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