Dangers for Owners

• The biggest danger of automotive lift operation is improper or inadequate training. Although some automotive lifts may appear to be simple to use, it's important that owners of lifts take the time to properly train their lift operators thoroughly. Training should be conducted in group sessions, and there should be both a written and operational exam for each technician to pass before he can begin using the lift. By giving thorough training, the danger of technicians being injured or cars being damaged will decrease.
  
  

Dangers of Elevated Cars on a Lift

• Once the lift has elevated the car, the danger of falling debris and objects increases as the technician works underneath the car. It's important for lift operators and technicians to wear safety glasses to protect their eyes from falling dirt and debris as well as hard hats to protect their heads from accidental bumps or falling car parts that might have loosened during the repair process.
  
  

Weight Capacity

• With today's wide variety of vehicle sizes and options, there is the danger of the vehicle being too heavy for the lift's weight capacity. A lift designed for cars may not have a maximum weight capacity that can accommodate a large pickup truck or SUV. Knowing the weight capacity of the lift is important. This is one of the biggest dangers of lift operation as a lift may be able to elevate an overweight vehicle, but not be able to keep it in the air, causing it to crash down, potentially damaging the lift and vehicle, and certainly putting any technicians working under the vehicle at risk for severe injury.
  
  

Mechanical Dangers

• Just like any other piece of machinery, automotive lifts require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to operate smoothly. The specific maintenance procedures for your auto lift will vary from model to model, however it is important to follow the lift manufacturer's maintenance schedule to avoid the dangers associated with an unmaintained lift. If not properly maintained, the lift could get stuck or certain components may prevent the lift from coming down smoothly, putting the lift operator at risk of injury.