Auto Body Specialties is an auto body parts supplier in Middlefield, CT. We sell products to everyone from large collision repair facilities to people restoring cars in their backyard. Because we have had so many customers over the years, we have heard several stories about shops that have had fires start because of careless mistakes. Because practicing fire safety is easier than having to rebuild your auto body shop after a fire, we have decided to write about fire safety in an auto body shop this week.

Fire Safety in an Auto Body Shop

Keep your auto body shop clean and organized.

A lot of fires erupt from cutting or welding, so you’ll want to keep your shop free of combustible hazards. Paper and cardboard can also catch fire from sparks so be sure to dispose of any paper by storage or recycling. Employees in your auto body shop should take steps daily to remove trash and waste. Oil spills must be cleaned up immediately and oily rags should be disposed of in metal containers with lids.

Maintain your fire extinguishers.

All of the fire extinguishers in your building should be maintained and installed as stated in the NFPA Code . They should be accessible throughout the facility, especially near the flammable liquid storage room or area spray booth, and mixing room. Fire extinguishers must be subjected to yearly maintenance and have a tag that indicates when they maintenance was performed. You should also make sure all your employees are trained in how to use them properly.

Store flammable things in the correct place.

Flammable and combustible liquids like paints, thinners, and adhesives should be stored separately from your other shop chemicals. Flammable and combustible liquids should be stored in specialized storage cabinets that are kept far way from heating sources such as furnaces and hot water heaters. Oxygen and fuel tanks should also be stored away from heating sources. Their storage area should also be dry and well ventilated.

Use your shop’s electrical equipment in the proper way.

You should always make sure that any electrical equipment and tools are properly grounded before they are used. Check your wires from damage or frays and make sure you are using the correct surge protector as many are only meant for household use. You should also make sure all of the extension cords you are using are adequate for usage in a body shop.

Train employees on fire safety.

All employees should be trained on how to use the fire extinguisher properly. Workers should be able to notice potential fire hazards and how to mitigate them. Employees that work in positions that make them more exposed to hazards like painting and welding should always be properly certified. It is also important that employees speak up if they see something that poses a potential hazard.