Last Updated: 14 April 2025
Keeping Your Garage Workshop Clean, Safe & Hygienic
The world has changed a lot in recent years, and while we may no longer be living in the height of a global pandemic, the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety in garage workshops remains more vital than ever. Whether it's protecting your team, your customers, or simply enhancing the professionalism of your service, a well-managed and sanitary workspace reflects positively on your business.
This article draws from best practices recommended by industry leaders including the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), and the Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA).
Does My Garage Need to Conduct a Health & Safety Risk Assessment?
Absolutely. Risk assessments aren’t just a formality—they're a proactive way to identify potential hazards and take meaningful action. You’re probably doing mini risk assessments every day without realizing it. The formal process just puts those instincts into writing.
Start by identifying people who may be at risk—staff, customers, suppliers, or delivery drivers. Think about areas of close contact or shared surfaces: reception desks, restrooms, waiting areas, customer vehicles, tools, or shared kitchen appliances. Once identified, take steps to reduce those risks—through improved layout, cleaning schedules, or simple hygiene policies.
Goals of Implementing Better Hygiene & Safety Standards
- Maintain a safe and responsible environment for both employees and customers.
- Demonstrate your commitment to health and safety through visible, professional practices.
- Support staff education and ongoing training on hygiene and safe work habits.
- Protect vulnerable individuals with tailored support (e.g., remote work or task adjustments).
- Encourage consistent communication using posters, toolbox talks, or digital updates.
- Create clear protocols for how customers and staff should interact in your workshop.
- Ensure delivery personnel and third parties follow safe drop-off or contactless procedures.
- Establish clear guidelines for handling illness or injury in the workplace—be it COVID, flu, or otherwise.
Best Practices for Workplace Hygiene & Sanitisation
- Routine Cleaning: Surfaces like counters, door handles, tools, keyboards, and payment devices should be cleaned regularly.
- Vehicle Sanitation: Disinfect common touchpoints inside vehicles (steering wheels, gear sticks, seats) before and after work is completed.
- Hand Hygiene Stations: Provide hand sanitizer at key points—entryways, desks, workshop bays, and restrooms.
- Paper Towels Over Hand Dryers: Paper towels reduce airborne particles and are preferred over electric hand dryers.
- Tool Cleaning: Disinfect tools before and after use—especially if shared between technicians.
- Ventilation: Keep bays and doors open whenever possible to improve airflow and reduce airborne contaminants.
Clear Communication & Training
- Display hygiene protocols and safety posters prominently.
- Provide clear pre-visit instructions to customers.
- Train new or returning employees thoroughly.
- Use digital communications (emails, videos, texts) to share updates or expectations.
Physical Space Management
- Reception Layout: Keep it clutter-free, well-ventilated, and easy to navigate.
- Workshop Zones: Assign technicians specific bays to reduce tool sharing or congestion.
- Customer Access: Where possible, operate by appointment to manage foot traffic.
- One-Way Systems: In high-traffic areas, consider using floor markings to direct flow.
- Contactless Key Drop: Provide a secure dropbox for customers dropping off vehicles.
Use of PPE & Protective Gear
- Gloves, masks, or eye protection should be provided where appropriate.
- Disposable interior vehicle covers (seat, wheel, gearstick) can boost customer confidence.
- Perspex barriers at reception desks offer long-term protection from airborne irritants.
- Ensure a proper fit and quality for any PPE issued to staff.
Go Digital Where Possible
- Accept electronic payments to reduce physical contact.
- Use digital booking forms and service updates via email or SMS.
- Offer vehicle collection and delivery services when feasible.
- Use live video or photo updates to communicate vehicle condition or work progress.
Supporting Your Team
- Shift patterns help reduce overcrowding.
- Vulnerable employees are given additional protections or alternative duties.
- You actively check in on staff wellbeing and encourage open dialogue about safety.
Final Thoughts
Your garage workshop is more than a place of work—it’s a space of trust. By maintaining clean, hygienic, and safe standards, you show respect for your team, your customers, and your craft. These aren’t just pandemic-era practices—they’re habits of a well-run modern business.
Further Reading & References
Written By:
Jason Pengelly
Jason has been writing for Garage Equipment Online for over 9 years and is a specialist content editor for many other web properties. You can find his work across myriad industries and his content currently holds over 300 page 1 rankings on Google.
URL: https://www.garageequipmentonline.com/