Motor Vehicle Repair (MVR) workshops such as garages, MoT centres, bodyshops and panel beaters are pretty hazardous places to work in. Flammable liquids, oil, grease, toxic substances and repair equipment can all lead to accidents, injuries and illnesses at work caused by fire, exposure, noise pollution, slips and trips to name but a few.
The HSE has set guidelines to increase safety for workers in MVRs. One way to help increase safety is by installing heavy duty PVC flooring specifically designed for MVRs.
Here’s a look at just some of the hazards in MVRs and how PVC flooring can help increase safety in these work environments.
Slips and Trips
20% of MVR injuries are caused by slips and trips. To prevent accidents, the HSE recommends the following safety precautions:
- Suitable footwear with non-slip, shock absorbent soles, oil resistant uppers and steel toe caps.
- Suitable flooring that is regularly maintained and has a non-slip surface.
- Gangways should be clearly marked and kept clear.
- Parts and Equipment should be tidied away and not cause obstructions in walkways.
- Suitable cleaning substances, equipment and procedures in the event of oil, grease or hazardous fluid spillages.
Heavy duty PVC is tough, durable, can withstand heavy loads and is ideal for MVRs. Its non-slip properties provide a safer working environment and can drastically reduce the risk of slips and trips.
Fire
Draining fuel tanks, flame, spark and heat generated repairs and exposure to flammable liquids are all fire risks in MVRs.
If a fire should occur, PVC flooring will char and burn out rather than spread the fire and will also reduce the release of toxic fumes.
Dust Contamination
Toxic substances can be released into the air, especially from sanding jobs in bodyshops. These dust particles can be inhaled, damaging the lungs or causing skin irritations.
PPEs such as overalls, gloves and respiratory masks should be worn to reduce exposure. However, PVC flooring can also reduce dust build-up and dispersal of harmful dust into the atmosphere.
Noise Pollution
Pneumatic tools, sanders and grinders used in panel beating and in MVR workshops have a particularly high decibel noise level.
Continuous, long term exposure to loud noise can permanently damage your hearing. This can range from tinnitus to irreversible hearing loss.
PVC flooring has insulating properties that help absorb and reduce noise levels in MVR areas.
Ecotile heavy duty PVC flooring is ideal for all types of MVRs. For more information our range of garage and workshop flooring, contact Ecotile today or visit us online.
CEO and founder James Gedye has established Ecotile as the leading provider of interlocking floor tiles to the UK and around the world. Founded in 1996 from his bedroom turned office, James has built Ecotile into a multi-million-pound business, with sustainability still at the heart of his vision.
Based in Luton, Bedfordshire, Ecotile remains a privately owned UK manufacturing company, precision engineering all products in a purpose-built ISO accredited factory.
Leading the company to 2 prestigious Queens Awards in 2017 for Enterprise for Innovation and International Trade, these accolades underline James’ desire to create the highest quality products and fly the flag for British manufacturing. Working directly with leading businesses for over 25 years, James’ Ecotile brand has become synonymous with trust.
Used by 1000s of leading businesses, trusted by the MoD and specified by contractors, Ecotile floor tiles can be found across the world.
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