WVADA NEWS 19 The same principle applies to the parts department and vehicle lot. Employees may be lifting and moving parts, operating equipment, working around delivery vehicles or navigating large lots with constant vehicle movement. Identifying these risks before an incident occurs can help prevent injuries and reduce disruptions to dealership operations. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN EMPLOYEE IS INJURED? The absence of even one employee can have a ripple effect. In a dealership, losing an experienced technician or other key employee can affect scheduling, productivity and customer service. Other employees may work additional hours to keep up with demand, creating overtime costs and potentially increasing fatigue-related risks. There can also be longer-term consequences. A pattern of workplace injuries can affect employee morale and retention and may make it more difficult to attract qualified employees. Employees want to know that their employer takes their well-being seriously. A dealership known for putting safety first can demonstrate that its people are valued — not simply as employees, but as an essential part of the business. PREVENTION IS A BUSINESS STRATEGY One of the most effective ways to control the cost of workplace injuries is to prevent them. That starts with documenting incidents and near misses, identifying trends and regularly evaluating the dealership for potential hazards. Risk management means looking beyond what has already gone wrong and asking what could go wrong next. Could a customer slip in a service area? Is a walkway obstructed? Are employees following established procedures when moving vehicles? Is the equipment properly maintained? Are employees receiving the training they need to perform their jobs safely? Small corrective actions can prevent much larger problems. A caution sign near a wet floor, a clearly designated pedestrian route, proper storage of equipment or a routine inspection of vehicle lifts may seem like simple measures, but each addresses a potential hazard before someone gets hurt. Safety should not be viewed as a program that competes with sales, service or other dealership priorities. It supports them. A safe workplace helps keep employees on the job, protects customers and visitors, reduces disruptions and helps control the costs associated with workplace injuries. For new-car dealerships, the cost of inaction can be significant. Investing in safety today can help protect your employees, your customers, your reputation and your bottom line tomorrow.
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