OSHA Compliance Software for Automotive

Automotive shops must comply with OSHA's General Industry Standards (29 CFR 1910), including Hazard Communication (1910.1200), Personal Protective Equipment (1910.132-138), Respiratory Protection (1910.134), and specific standards for spray finishing (1910.107). Additionally, shops working on electric/hybrid vehicles must follow electrical safety standards (1910.331-335).

While OSHA doesn't have a specific standard for automotive lifts, they are covered under the General Duty Clause. However, ANSI/ALI ALOIM standards require annual inspections by qualified inspectors. Many states have adopted these as requirements, and insurance companies often mandate compliance. Failure to maintain lifts properly can result in OSHA citations under 1910.219 for mechanical power transmission.

Required training includes: Hazard Communication for all chemicals used, PPE assessment and proper use, Respiratory protection if using respirators, Fire extinguisher use, Emergency action plans, Lockout/tagout for equipment maintenance, and specialized training for hybrid/electric vehicle work. Training must be documented with dates, content covered, and employee signatures.

Paint booth operators require a complete respiratory protection program under 1910.134, including: Medical evaluation before first use, Annual fit testing for tight-fitting respirators, Training on proper use and limitations, Written respiratory protection program, and Proper respirator selection based on exposure assessments. Air-supplied respirators may be required depending on paint types used.

The top violations include: 1) Missing or inadequate Hazard Communication program and SDS sheets, 2) Improper storage of flammable liquids, 3) Blocked emergency exits or fire extinguishers, 4) Missing or damaged machine guarding, 5) Inadequate PPE or lack of PPE assessment, 6) No lockout/tagout procedures, and 7) Missing eyewash stations where required.

Yes, even small shops need written programs for: Hazard Communication (required for all employers using hazardous chemicals), Emergency Action Plan (if you have fire extinguishers for employee use), Respiratory Protection (if respirators are used), Lockout/Tagout (for equipment servicing), and PPE assessment documentation. These are required regardless of shop size.

Initial training at hire for all safety topics, Annual refreshers for respirator use and hazard communication, Whenever new hazards are introduced or procedures change, After accidents or near-misses, When employees show lack of understanding. Best practice is monthly safety meetings covering different topics throughout the year.

Working on high-voltage systems requires: Specialized training on electrical hazards, Insulated tools rated for the voltage levels (up to 1000V), Lockout/tagout procedures specific to HV systems, Class 0 rubber insulating gloves with leather protectors, Written procedures for de-energizing systems, and Understanding of orange cable identification. Only qualified persons should work on HV systems.

Automotive shops must: Properly label all waste containers, Store waste oil, antifreeze, and other fluids separately, Maintain manifests for hazardous waste disposal, Use licensed disposal companies, Never mix different waste streams, Keep disposal records for 3 years, and Train employees on proper waste handling. EPA and state environmental regulations also apply.

Maintain records of: OSHA 300 logs (if 11+ employees), Training records with signatures and dates, Safety meeting minutes, Inspection records (lifts, fire extinguishers, eyewash stations), Accident investigation reports, PPE assessments, Medical evaluations for respirator users, SDS sheets for all chemicals, and Equipment maintenance logs. Most records must be retained for at least five years.