Vehicle repair garages are expected to have suitable health and safety documentation in place to help manage risks associated with workshop activities, equipment, hazardous substances and vehicle movements. Under UK health and safety law, the exact level of documentation will depend on the size of the business, number of employees and the type of work being carried out.
In practice, garages are generally expected to keep documents that demonstrate risks have been assessed and that reasonable safety arrangements are in place for staff, contractors and visitors.
Typical documents for a vehicle repair garage include:
- A Health and Safety Policy
- Workshop Risk Assessments covering repair, servicing and vehicle movement activities
- COSHH assessments for oils, fuels, brake cleaners, solvents, paints and other hazardous substances
- Vehicle lift inspection and maintenance records
- Fire safety documentation and emergency procedures
- Training records for technicians and workshop staff
- PPE procedures and equipment checks
- Accident and incident reporting records, including RIDDOR where applicable
- Electrical equipment inspection and maintenance records
- Contractor and visitor safety arrangements where relevant
Additional documentation may also be needed for higher-risk activities such as welding, spray painting, battery charging or work involving electric and hybrid vehicles.