Mechanics Resources
Your health and safety matter
Comprehensive health, safety, and wellbeing guidance for transport mechanics. From physical health to chemical safety, we've got you covered.
Physical Health & Ergonomics
Mechanics regularly lift heavy parts, tools, and equipment. Proper technique is essential to prevent injury.
- •Always assess the load before lifting, if it's too heavy, get help or use equipment
- •Keep your back straight, bend your knees, and lift with your legs
- •Hold the load close to your body and avoid twisting while carrying
- •Use trolleys, hoists, or lifting equipment for heavy or awkward items
Workshop tasks often involve repetitive movements and awkward postures that can lead to musculoskeletal disorders.
- •Take regular breaks to stretch and change position
- •Use adjustable workbenches to avoid bending or reaching
- •Wear supportive footwear and consider anti-fatigue mats
- •Report persistent pain early, don't wait until it becomes chronic
Chemical Safety & PPE
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations protect you from exposure to hazardous substances in the workshop.
Common Hazardous Substances:
- Engine oils, lubricants, and greases
- Brake fluid and hydraulic fluids
- Solvents, degreasers, and cleaning agents
- Paints, thinners, and adhesives
- Welding fumes and metal dust
- Battery acid and antifreeze
Essential PPE:
- Safety glasses or goggles, protect eyes from splashes, sparks, and debris
- Gloves, chemical-resistant for oils/solvents, cut-resistant for sharp parts
- Respiratory protection, masks or respirators when working with fumes, dust, or spray paints
- Steel-toe boots, protect feet from falling parts and crushing injuries
- Overalls or coveralls, protect skin and clothing from contamination
COSHH Quick Checklist:
- ✓ Read safety data sheets (SDS) for all chemicals you use
- ✓ Store hazardous substances in labeled, secure containers
- ✓ Use ventilation or extraction systems when working with fumes
- ✓ Wash hands thoroughly after handling chemicals
- ✓ Report spills, leaks, or exposure incidents immediately
- ✓ Attend COSHH training provided by your employer
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Mechanics may work on vehicles involved in serious accidents. Seeing the aftermath can be distressing.
- •It's normal to feel shaken after working on a crash-damaged vehicle
- •Talk to a colleague, supervisor, or counselor if you're struggling
- •Don't bottle it up, trauma can build over time
- •Access DriverWell's crisis resources if you need immediate support
High workloads, tight deadlines, and physical demands can lead to stress and burnout.
- •Take your breaks, they're not optional, they're essential
- •Speak up if workloads are unrealistic or unsafe
- •Use DriverWell's mood tracker to monitor your wellbeing
- •Connect with peers on the support forum
Industry Organizations & Support
Professional body for the motor industry, offering training, qualifications, and career support for mechanics.
Visit IMI WebsiteUK regulator for workplace health and safety. Provides guidance on COSHH, manual handling, and workshop safety.
Visit HSE WebsiteMental health charity for the construction and related industries, including automotive workshops.
Visit Mates in MindMental health support and training for the transport and logistics sector, including mechanics and workshop staff.
Visit Working Minds