Car Washes
Car washes use strong chemicals, high-pressure water, conveyors and electricity, in wet and noisy places. Workers, often young or new to the job, face a range of hazards that can be controlled with training and good setup.
- Car Wash Workers
- Detailers
- Owners
Chemical hazards
- Wheel cleaners, pre-soaks and degreasers can be acidic or highly alkaline and burn skin and eyes. Some contain hydrofluoric acid or ammonium bifluoride, which can cause deep burns and poisoning. See Corrosives.
- Never mix chemicals. Mixing bleach with acids or ammonia gives off toxic gas.
- Read labels and Safety Data Sheets and use the dilution system correctly. See Hazard Communication.
- Store and label chemicals properly. See Chemical Storage.
- Provide eyewash and teach first aid. See Chemical Exposure First Aid.
Other hazards
- Slips and falls on wet, soapy floors and ramps. Use anti-slip surfaces, drains and good footwear.
- Electrical shock: use GFCI protection and keep cords and equipment in good condition. See GFCI.
- Machinery: conveyors, brushes, blowers and gates can catch hands and clothing. Lock out before clearing jams. See Conveyors and Group Lockout.
- High-pressure water can inject into skin and cause serious injury. See Pressure Washers.
- Noise from blowers and pressure sprayers.
- Heat and cold, and exhaust from vehicles in tunnels. See Carbon Monoxide.
- Vehicle traffic: workers are struck by cars moving through the lot or tunnel.
- Violence and robbery risk with cash handling.
Safe work
- Wear splash goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, waterproof boots and an apron when handling chemicals
- Use hearing protection near blowers and sprayers
- Never reach into equipment while running; stop and lock out
- Stay out of vehicle paths and wear high-visibility clothing. See High-Visibility Clothing
- Keep floors and walkways clear and cords off the ground
- Take breaks, drink water and report injuries or leaks to a supervisor
- Get full training in all tasks, in a language you understand
Standards & references
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