A mechanic may not be the first profession to come to mind when you think of a dangerous job. However, it is one of the many professions that can expose people to hazards. While you and your staff will be committed to following health and safety guidelines on and off-site, accidents can and do happen. Here are just some of the risks that mechanics face at work:
Fire: Working with so many flammable materials, such as chemicals, oils, and fuel, with hot machinery and engines can pose a fire risk. A potential fire may cause injury to staff and customers on your premises, along with damage caused to your equipment, garage and your customers’ cars and belongings. If the correct cover isn’t in place, these issues could land you in financial hot water.
Road risks: Even if your main time is spent in the garage, you still need to consider road hazards as a mechanic. Whether you’re testing work on a motor or performing an MOT service, you’ll need to find out if any problems with a vehicle in your care persist when driving on the road. What’s more, if you’re a mobile mechanic specialising in breakdowns and roadside recovery, the location of the vehicle you’re recovering may create a hazard on the road for both you and other drivers. Having a road-risk policy will give you peace of mind that if you’re called out, you’re covered in the event of an accident.
Injuries: As a car mechanic, you’re no stranger to working with heavy machinery and equipment. Unfortunately, anything from cuts, burns, bruises and electric shocks can be occupational hazards, whether caused by accident or equipment malfunctioning. Employers and public liability insurance for mechanics and garages will protect your business in case of a claim for compensation for your employees and your business if anyone is injured at work.
Theft: Thieves target garages and auto shops to steal tools, vehicles, and cash stored on-site – which can be a huge financial hit for you and your customers. Even as a result of the attempted break-in, your premises may still be damaged which could hit you financially. We can help you to tailor a motor trade policy to include cover for cash, tools, equipment, and third-party vehicles on-site, alongside building insurance.