⚠️ Always prioritize safety. These checklists are guidelines, not substitutes for professional training. When in doubt, consult a certified mechanic.
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🛑 Safety First

Professional-grade safety checklists for every type of automotive work. Protect yourself, your tools, and your vehicle with our comprehensive pre-work protocols.

Required PPE by Task

Personal Protective Equipment checklist. Verify you have the correct gear before starting any work.

🥽

Safety Glasses

Side-shield impact resistant lenses for all mechanical work.

REQUIRED
🧤

Mechanic Gloves

Nitrile or leather gloves depending on task type and chemicals.

REQUIRED
🥾

Steel Toe Boots

Protect feet from dropped tools, heavy parts, and fluid spills.

REQUIRED
😷

Respirator

N95 or better for brake dust, sanding, or chemical fumes.

SITUATIONAL
👂

Hearing Protection

Earplugs or muffs when using impact tools, air compressors, or grinders.

SITUATIONAL
🔥

Fire Extinguisher

ABC rated extinguisher within arm's reach during welding or fuel work.

REQUIRED
🔼

Jacking & Lifting Vehicle

⚠️ HIGH RISK
✓
Park on level, solid concrete surface Never lift on grass, dirt, or asphalt
✓
Engage parking brake fully
✓
Place wheel chocks on opposite wheels Prevents rolling during lift
✓
Locate proper jack points in manual
✓
Position jack stands under rated support points
✓
Lift slowly until weight is on stands
✓
Test stability by rocking vehicle Never work under vehicle supported by jack alone
0/7 Done
🔋

Electrical System Work

⚡ MEDIUM RISK
✓
Turn ignition key to OFF position
✓
Remove key from ignition
✓
Disconnect NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal first Prevents short circuits to chassis
✓
Cover exposed positive terminal with insulator
✓
Wait 10 mins if working with airbag/SRS systems
✓
Have multimeter and wiring diagram ready
✓
Use fused jumper wires for testing circuits
0/7 Done
🧪

Chemicals & Fluids

☣️ HIGH RISK
✓
Ensure adequate ventilation (open doors/windows)
✓
Read Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for product
✓
Wear chemical-resistant gloves
✓
Have eyewash station or water source nearby
✓
Use proper catch pans for fluid drainage
✓
Keep fire extinguisher accessible
✓
Dispose of fluids at certified recycling center
0/7 Done
🛞

Brake System Service

🛑 HIGH RISK
✓
Wear N95 mask (brake dust contains carcinogens)
✓
Clean parts with brake cleaner only
✓
Check brake fluid level before bleeding
✓
Use correct fluid type (DOT 3/4/5.1)
✓
Do NOT pump brake pedal if system is open
✓
Test brakes at low speed before highway
✓
Inspect lines for cracks or leaks
0/7 Done
⚙️

Engine Bay Work

🌡️ MEDIUM RISK
✓
Let engine cool completely before touching
✓
Remove loose jewelry, watches, and rings
✓
Wear long sleeves to prevent burns/abrasions
✓
Keep long hair tied back
✓
Do not wear loose clothing near fans/serpentine belts
✓
Use scan tool to clear codes before diagnosing
✓
Have rags ready for oil/coolant spills
0/7 Done
💨

Exhaust System

☠️ HIGH RISK
✓
NEVER run engine in enclosed garage Carbon monoxide is odorless and lethal
✓
Ensure exhaust pipe is open to outside
✓
Wait 1 hour for exhaust to cool before touching
✓
Wear thick leather gloves
✓
Use penetrant on rusted bolts 24h before work
✓
Check for leaks after reassembly
✓
Support exhaust weight with jack while working
0/7 Done

What to Do in Emergency

If an accident occurs, stay calm and follow these steps immediately. Your safety is the absolute priority.

1

Stop Work Immediately

Drop tools, step back from the vehicle, and assess the situation. Do not attempt to fix while injured or in panic.

2

Secure the Area

Turn off ignition, disconnect battery if possible, and move flammable materials away from fire sources.

3

Treat Injuries

Apply first aid for cuts, burns, or chemical exposure. Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes if exposed to fluids.

4

Call for Help

Call 911 for severe injuries, fires, or carbon monoxide exposure. Do not wait to see if symptoms worsen.

🆘 Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services 911
Poison Control 1-800-222-1222
AutomotiveDIY Help 1-800-DIY-CARS
Local Garage (Find Nearby) Search

Download Printable Safety Pack

Get all our safety checklists in a beautiful PDF format. Laminate them and keep in your garage for quick reference.

📥 Download PDF Pack
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