Work environment safety and ergonomics on the road

Few trades have as changing a workplace as roadside assistance. One day you stand in a lit workshop, the next you are on your knees in the emergency lane on a motorway while traffic rushes past in the dark and rain. Therefore safety and working environment is not something you read once and forget — it is a way of working.

§The most dangerous factor: traffic

The greatest risk for a breakdown service provider is not the broken-down car — it is other cars. Working close to moving traffic involves real danger and therefore barriers, positioning and visibility are crucial.

• 01Always wear visible work clothes with reflectors so you are seen in the dark and bad weather
• 02Place your vehicle as a screen between you and traffic where possible
• 03Place warning triangle and use rotating/flashing warning lights
• 04Have an escape route in mind — never stand trapped between two vehicles
• 05Be extra alert on motorways, where speed makes reaction time short

§Physical stress and ergonomics

Auto Assistance is physical work. You pull heavy chains and wires, lift wheels, couple recovery equipment and often work in awkward positions next to a damaged vehicle. Over time, it can wear on your back, shoulders and knees if you're not careful.

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Use your legs not your back when lifting. Keep the load close to your body avoid twisting with weight in your hands and use tools — jacks spars ramps and the truck — instead of pulling hard with muscles. The gear you have on the car is there to spare your body.

Sparing work positions

Kneel on a knee pad instead of bending over for long periods. Change position frequently. A single bad working posture rarely causes damage but the same movements day after day for many years can cause wear. Think long-term.

§The weather and the physical environment

You work in all kinds of weather — cold, heat, rain, snow and wind. It places demands on both clothing and concentration. Cold makes fingers slow and attention dull; heat and dehydration tire. Dress for the conditions and take breaks so you stay sharp.

§Chemistry, fire and electricity

Fuel, oil and battery acid are part of everyday life and electric cars add high-voltage systems to the picture. Incorrect handling can cause burns, poisoning or fire. Follow procedures, use the right personal protective equipment and know where the fire extinguisher and first aid equipment are — even in other people's vehicles.

§Mental work environment

You encounter people in stressful situations — stranded, frustrated, and sometimes shocked after an accident. It requires patience and composure. A good psychological working environment is also about being able to talk to colleagues about difficult experiences and having clear agreements about shifts so you don't burn out on irregular hours.

“The most important tool on the car is your own safety. If you don't get home safely you help no one tomorrow.”