Mechanic

Mechanics work in many different industries, including aviation, automotive, commercial, industrial and 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.

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 airbags.
• 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.

• 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 the 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.

• 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 general first aid and first aid for chemical exposures.
• Install and maintain eyewash stations where appropriate.
• Know how to report a hazard.
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.
• Follow company safety rules.