Editing Health and safety in the shop or garage (section)
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==Lifting and handling heavy objects== Lifting and moving parts around the garage/shop can get to be a real pain (in the lower back). A quality, well built engine hoist will work well for moving heavy parts such as engines, transmissions and axles. An overhead hoist or gantry can work well for lifting a frame or even removing the body off a car. It is important to use the right lifting gear for the job. Though this has been done more times than can be counted, using a 3/8" grade 3 bolt and a chain is '''not''' the safe way to move heavy items like an engine! Instead, use some sort of lifting fixture to lift the engine. Using lifting eyes or fixtures like those found on a factory installed engine works well. Combined with a high quality chain with hooks on each end, this will provide a much more secure way of lifting or transporting an engine. Other heavy or awkward objects like axles or automotive bodies should be moved with high quality nylon (or even kevlar) straps that are free from cuts, frays, or tears. In order to prevent damage to the straps and possible loss or damage to the load, do not wrap the straps around sharp objects or edges. If wrapping around sharp edges cannot be avoided, then place a layer (or several layers) of material such as heavy cloth or canvas between the strap and the item being lifted. ===Jacking and jackstands=== {{Warning|Never climb under a car that is supported by a jack without using jack stands, should the jack suddenly fail it could injure or kill. Also block tires front and back so they cannot move forward or backwards.}} Try to refrain from working under heavy objects. When this can't be avoided be sure to firmly support the load. When working under a vehicle that has to be jacked up, be sure to support the weight with jack stands or ramps designed to support the weight of the vehicle. Do not use the jack as the sole means of support. Always work on a solid, level surface and block the wheels to ensure the vehicle doesn't roll or fall off the supports. Make sure the jack/jack stands are designed to support the weight you will be raising. Unless on the road side, refrain from using a bumper jack as they are unstable and can push a car forward while jacking. When setting jack stands or car lifts, make sure that one person sets the lift points. If two different people set them, it is likely that they will be in different spots, possibly making the object unstable. When purchasing a jack or jack stands, price should not be the deciding factor. You want well built equipment that are rated for at least twice what you will ever use them for- after all, you are trusting your health and possibly your LIFE to them. ====Resources==== *[http://www.hotrodders.com/kb/jacks-lifts-dollies-stands Jacks, Lifts, Dollies, and Stands] *[http://www.hyjacks.com/H7.HTM Jack basics] *[[Hydraulic jacks]]
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