EV Safety in Auto Workshops

Automotive workshops need to adapt to the changing environment to ensure the safe and effective servicing of electric vehicles.

Training and competency

Businesses must ensure that their workers undergo comprehensive training in electric vehicle systems, including battery technology, high-voltage components, and safety protocols. Having workers upskilled in this area will enable them to handle EVs confidently.

As SA’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle Training Centre, the MTA offers a range of training options to cover the above requirements and much more. Below are the courses currently on offer on offer in South Australia and available for Northern Territory MTA members and industry to attend:

• Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle – Operations & ServicingHybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle - Operations & Servicing - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

• Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle – Depower & ReinitialiseHybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle - Depower & Reinitialise - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

• Qualified Technician to Automotive Electrician ProgramMTA Qualified Technician to Electric Vehicle Technician Program - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

Safety equipment

In addition to training, workers need to be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate clothing. Furthermore, workshops should invest in insulated tools designed for electric vehicle repairs to minimise the risk of electrical shocks.

As stated in the Australian Standard 5732:2022, it is also recommended to have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 200 m of the designated working area.

Businesses should purchase an Insulated Rescue Hook which is an essential piece of safety equipment used to grasp an electrocuted person by the waist and bring them back to a safe area without putting other workers at risk. Whilst the hooks are designed for electrical shocks occurring at substations, they are equally applicable to shocks that may occur from EVs.

Safe work procedures

Businesses must develop safe work procedures that describe the tasks involved, identify the hazards and document how the task is to be performed to minimise the risks.

Relevant procedures will depend on the type of work being undertaken; examples include:

• Defining the type of work that may be undertaken within the repair facility and the designated person/s responsible for undertaking or supervising this work

• How to isolate, depower and test the electrical system prior to undertaking work

• Limiting unauthorised access by displaying signage and/or creating exclusion zones when undertaking work on the electrical system

• How to manually move a vehicle within the workshop, such as with the aid of a trolley jack or wheel jacks to prevent rotation of the drive wheels

• Emergency procedures in the event of electric shock, arc flash, fire or contact with battery electrolyte

Workshop setup

Automotive workshops will also need to be modified to accommodate electric vehicles. The recommended accommodations are as follows:

• Designate specific work areas for electric vehicle maintenance

• Install clearly marked high-voltage signage

• Ensure the availability of electric vehicle-specific tools and equipment

• Install barriers to prevent untrained/unauthorised people from accessing these areas

Emergency response planning

Develop and regularly review emergency response plans for electric vehicle incidents. Ensure that all staff members are familiar with emergency disconnect procedures and evacuation routes in case of a highvoltage system malfunction or fire.

Businesses are encouraged to collaborate with their local emergency services to ensure they are adequately trained and equipped to handle electric vehicle incidents.

Vehicle inspection procedures

Implement thorough inspection protocols for electric vehicles, including:

• Checking the condition of the battery and high-voltage components

• Identifying and addressing potential safety hazards before initiating any repairs

• Verifying that all safety systems are functioning correctly after service

Charging station safety

If your workshop offers EV charging station installations or maintenance, adhere to safety guidelines:

• Verify the integrity of charging cables and connectors regularly

• Provide clear instructions for customers on safe charging practices

• Follow manufacturer guidelines for installing and servicing charging infrastructure

Regular safety audits

Conduct regular safety audits to identify and address potential hazards in the workshop. This includes checking the condition of safety equipment, reviewing policies/procedures, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

The MTA encourages members to be proactive in their approach to electric vehicles. By investing in staff training, infrastructure and emergency response planning, members can confidently navigate the influx of electric vehicles into Australia.

If MTA SA/NT members are looking for assistance with any of the above, including organising a WHS Audit of their premises, please contact our Workplace Relations Team on 8291 2000. For EV training inquiries, please contact our helpful customer service team on 8241 0522.

www.members.mtasant.com.au/ workplace-services