Lift Safety in the Automotive Industry Training Course

Automotive lifts are some of the most powerful tools in the shop, effortlessly hoisting vehicles weighing thousands of pounds. But when a tool this powerful is misused, the results aren't just inconvenient—they can be deadly, especially when gravity is involved. Nearly all incidents involving lifts—from a vehicle shifting or slipping to catastrophic failure—are preventable when shop personnel commit to the fundamental rules of safety.

Whether you’re working with a two-post, four-post, scissor, or in-ground lift, this course gives you the essential, non-negotiable practices that protect you and your coworkers. We cut straight to the core of the issue by focusing on the Three Pillars of Safety emphasized by the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI).

Are you absolutely sure you know the correct lift points for every vehicle? Do you know what to look for when performing a quick daily inspection—things like leaks, cracks, or unusual sounds—that could signal a failure before the vehicle even leaves the ground? And, most importantly, are you properly securing the vehicle so its weight rests on the mechanical locks, not the hydraulic system? That distinction is a life-saver.

This training goes beyond the basics to cover critical details, like understanding how removing a transmission can suddenly shift a vehicle’s center of gravity , and the importance of using high-reach auxiliary stands to maintain stability. We also review the serious consequences of improper maintenance and the absolute need for strict lockout/tagout during service.

Remember, employers must protect workers from recognized hazards under OSHA’s General Duty Clause, and a three-ton vehicle overhead certainly qualifies. This course ensures you have the practical steps—from proper load positioning to avoiding prohibited items like wood blocks as adapters —to keep yourself and your vehicles secure, supported, and safe. Stick to these basics, and the job runs smoother, and the shop runs safer.

This program is available with Spanish and French closed captions.