Kickstart Safety: A Modern Guide to Automotive Shop Safety Orientation

July 9, 2025

Safety isn’t optional in today’s automotive shops — it’s a strategic advantage. Whether it’s protecting employees, avoiding downtime, or maintaining favorable insurance premiums, a strong safety orientation program is key. As an insurance professional, you can play a critical role in helping your automotive aftermarket clients implement a smarter, more effective safety culture—starting on day one of employment.

Why Safety Orientation Still Matters (and Always Will)

Even with advanced technology and more automated tools, modern repair shops remain high-risk environments. Power tools, flammable fluids, sharp components, electrical systems—it only takes one oversight to lead to an injury or costly claim.

But many shop owners still rely on informal, inconsistent safety training, especially with staffing shortages or high turnover. That’s a risky approach.

A well-structured safety orientation reduces risk and creates a more productive, confident team. As well as a formalized training program is still one of the most effective ways to reduce injuries and loss.

Support Hiring with S/P2® – A Value-Added Resource

Don’t forget to remind clients of resources like S/P2®, a digital training platform focused on safety and soft skills for entry-level technicians. It’s especially useful in today’s tight labor market where training time is limited.

Building a 2025-Ready Shop Safety Orientation

A strong safety program begins before a new hire turns a wrench. Here’s how to build or refine an orientation program that keeps teams safe and shops running efficiently.

1. General Safety Orientation

Before diving into specific job duties, start with a general safety overview. Topics should include:

Emergency response protocols (fire, chemical spill, severe weather, active threat)
Use of emergency equipment (fire extinguishers, eye wash stations, first aid kits)
Understanding hazard communication standards (updated OSHA requirements and labeling)
Evacuation routes and assembly areas
Reporting unsafe conditions or near-misses

Pro Tip: Use scenario-based walkthroughs or short videos to make general orientation more engaging and easier to retain.

2. Safety Basics Every Technician Must Know

In 2025, many safety expectations remain the same—but expectations around documentation, culture, and enforcement have increased. Reinforce these core principles:

Never smoke in or near service bays.
Keep walkways and exits clear at all times.
Use proper signage for spills or wet floors.
Make sure all safety gear (gloves, goggles, respirators) is worn when required.
Maintain working fire extinguishers and know how to use them.
Immediately tag and remove unsafe tools from service.
Follow manufacturer instructions on all chemical products.

Reminder: OSHA penalties have increased for noncompliance—so recordkeeping and training logs matter more than ever.

3. Job-Specific Orientation

After the general overview, train techs on safe practices for their specific role. Include:

Proper lifting techniques and the use of hoists or lifts.
Battery disconnection procedures before electrical work.
Burn prevention when working near exhaust systems or radiators.
Vehicle stabilization checks before going under a car.
Avoiding moving parts when working on a running engine.

4. Document Everything

A written employee orientation checklist ensures all required safety topics are covered. Have each new hire sign and date the checklist—then file it in their personnel folder.

5. Keep Safety Culture Alive

Orientation is just the beginning. Keep the momentum going:

Conduct regular toolbox talks or micro-trainings.
Update safety signage with QR codes linking to digital resources.
Reward teams for staying accident-free or reporting near-misses.
Involve senior techs as safety mentors for new hires.

The Business Impact of Better Training

Better orientation drives better business outcomes:

✅ Lower injury rates
✅ Reduced downtime
✅ Higher employee retention
✅ Fewer insurance claims
✅ Stronger compliance with OSHA and insurer requirements

Help your clients see safety orientation as more than a compliance checkbox—it’s an investment in their team and bottom line.

Agents: Expand Your Value

Looking to differentiate yourself as an agent? Offer your clients access to our Automotive Aftermarket Insurance Program—a coverage solution that prioritizes risk mitigation and business continuity. Position yourself as more than a policy provider—be a trusted advisor in safety and operational excellence.

Resources & Tools:

Safety starts with orientation—and with you. Help your client’s put protection into practice from day one.

Originally shared here, this post has been refreshed and republished here to reflect current insights.