3 Tips for Using a Car Hoist

It really goes without saying that the most important point in operating any type of automotive lifts, be it a 2 post lift, 4 post lift or other vehicle jacks, is safety. Yet, in many cases it is an area that we tend to overlook, until an accident occurs. Here's a quick look at some of the major safety tips in using a car hoist in your shop or garage.

It may surprise you to know that most hoist or lift accidents occur not due to the equipment failing, but to human error on the side of the operator. This is according to the governments Bureau of Labor Statistics. What are the most frequent mistakes that operators make? It's from trying to lift a vehicle well over the capacity of the auto lift, as well as people walking under a vehicle that has been lifted up. Unfortunately, accidents such as these are tragic, yet avoidable in most every case.

1. Always follow the hoist manufacturers instructions and recommendations. For example, never exceed the hoist lifting capacity. Sure, it is really common sense, but always stop to take an extra minute to consider how heavy your load is before using the equipment.

2. Inspect everything. Be sure to check out the car or truck hoist to see that it is in good working condition. Is the chain in good shape and is it long enough to hold onto the load your attempting to lift? If you are using a 2 post vehicle lift or one of the many other types of hydraulic lifts, make sure to check the maintenance records and that the equipment is being properly maintained and greased.

3. Be sure that every operator has been properly trained in how to operate any lift. Do they know about lift points and making sure the load is balanced before lifting it? How are there communication skills? An operator must communicate with everyone in the shop when lifting a load.

These are only a few of the many safety tips for anyone operating a car hoist. Your shop should have a good safety program in place and conduct regular safety training meetings in order to ensure that everyone in the garage is on the same page.