Automotive Lift Safety

Used to suspend machines weighing thousands of pounds in the air, automotive lifts are powerful tools. But hydraulic leaks and structural failures present serious potential dangers.

Automotive lift condition and safety

Safe lift usage starts with the condition of the lift itself. Before installation, a competent, qualified person must check to ensure that the floor and surrounding environment meet the manufacturer's requirements. The lift must be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then thoroughly tested before use.

Lifts must be inspected

At a minimum, lifts should be inspected on the schedule outlined by the manufacturer. The American National Standards Institute (AINSI) standard for automotive lifts recommends daily, monthly, and annual inspections.

Follow the lift manufacturer's recommended inspection procedures. Records should be kept indicating the dates on which lifts are inspected.

Lift maintenance and repairs

Follow the lift manufacturer's recommended maintenance and repair procedures. Take note of any instructions for the replacement of items like lifting pads.

Maintenance and repairs must be performed by a qualified individual or company. Worn or damaged parts should be replaced using authentic parts provided by the lift's manufacturer.

Training to operate the lift

Mechanics must be trained before being authorized to operate lifts. The training should include knowledge of maximum weight loads, operational controls, safety features, safe lifting procedures, and so on.

Shop owners/managers should keep records of this training. If more than one type of lift is used in the shop, employees must be trained for each type.

Operating the lift

Always be aware of your surroundings when operating a lift. Unauthorized individuals should be kept away from the area. Wear safety glasses to protect the eyes from falling parts from the vehicle or debris from the lift.

Position the vehicle properly:

• Always use the designated lifting points on the vehicle.
• Never exceed the maximum weight capacity of the lift. When in doubt, check the lift rating capacity and look up the weight of the vehicle.
• Make sure the vehicle is properly centered and balanced on the lift.
• Once the vehicle is positioned on the lift, make sure the lift locking devices are secured. Raise and lower the vehicle onto the lift's mechanical locks.
• Make sure any wheels remaining on the ground are properly chocked. If you're using a drive-on lift, the vehicle's wheels must be properly chocked or secured according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• When axle stands are used, only place the stands on hard, level surfaces like concrete.

When the job is done, clear the area surrounding the lift of tools, equipment, and people before lowering the lift.

Using a lift outside the shop

If you have to use an automotive lift outside a shop environment, make sure the ground is level and firm. If the surface is unsuitable for lifting a vehicle, move the vehicle to a more secure location.

Never work under a vehicle with an air suspension unless you prop it up first. Cabs and trailers should also be propped up to keep them from collapsing under their own weight.