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Auto Mechanic Safety Tips

Section B. Auto Mechanic Safety

I. Read the text “Auto Mechanic Safety Tips” and say why safety is critical for mechanics.

Automotive service technicians and mechanics usually can avoid serious accidents if safe practices are observed.

Safety is critical for mechanics. Even in the smallest shop, a safety plan helps to prevent expensive and painful accidents, including slips and falls, exposure to toxic chemicals, electrical shocks and different injuries, including back injuries caused by improper lifting. First of all safety involves keeping tools in good working condition.

Personal protection includes relatively simple and inexpensive measures that protect the mechanic's hands, eyes, feet and ears.

Glovesprotect the hands from burns from hot engines, irritation caused by caustic chemicals and cuts caused by exposure to sharp or protruding objects.

Safety goggles or protective glasses with side shields protect the eyes from injury caused by flying debris while grinding or welding.

Sturdy shoes or boots with nonskidsoles and steel toes prevent falls and protect the feet from injury caused by heavy objects.

Disposable earplugs protect the ears from loud noises caused by impact tools, engines and compressors.

Additional safety measures include tying up loose hair and avoiding loose clothing and jewelry.

Painter’s masks can help decrease the chance of inhalation injury during auto body painting, and a welder’s mask must be worn when welding, to protect the welder’s eyes from arc injuries. Additionally, simple inhalation masks should be worn during some sanding and cleaning tasks.

Safe use of machinery involves knowledge of the workings of each piece of machinery, including awareness and identification of potential hazards. Regular maintenance and inspections can reveal any potential problems, which should be fixed immediately. Electrical cords and sockets on small hand-held tools and lamps should be inspected regularly and replaced when they begin to wear.

Notes:

safe practices, n. – техника безопасности

personal protection, n. – индивидуальная защита

disposable earplugs, n.–одноразовые затычки для ушей

gloves, n.–перчатки

caustic chemicals, n.–щелочь protruding, adj.–торчащий наружу

safety goggles, n.–защитные очки debris, n.–осколки

sturdy, adj.–прочный nonskid, adj.–нескользящий

cord, n.–шнур wear, v. –изнашиваться

inhalation, n.–вдыхание arc, n.–контактно-дуговая сварка