Bodyshop April 2010 by Media Matters

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The Annual Waterborne Supplement Plus: The 2010 Recyclers Directory Digest

CANADA POST CANADIAN PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40069240

Bodyshop CANADAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

contents

April 2010 l Volume 40, Issue 2

Features 13

The Annual Waterborne Supplement The legislation debate is a thing of the past, so what comes next? Take a look at our latest practical guide to waterborne conversion for the latest news, equipment trends, and tips.

High-Voltage Hazards Are you equipped to handle the next generation of hybrid vehicles? In this unique hazardous materials update, find out what you need to know before starting this job.

Using Recycled Parts As a companion to our annual recyclers directory, we asked the technical pros at I-CAR what they thought about the business of recycled parts.

Cover Story

Social Settings From opening the lines of communication with your community and your industry partners, to search engine optimization and free promotion, find out how you can get into the world of social media.

In Every Issue 4 6 28 28

Viewpoint News Products Advertiser Index

29 29 30

Subscription information Internet Directory From the publisher

visit us at bodyshopbiz.com In the next issue: Our annual Bodyshop of the Year Award, business software solutions, waterborne painting techniques and more. www.bodyshopbiz.com l April 2010 l Bodyshop 3

Bodyshop CANADA’S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

viewpoint

Why Green is the New Black Last year in our April issue, I talked quite a bit about the environmental issues surrounding the collision repair industry and the exciting marketing opportunities that existed at the grassroots level for anyone who was willing to be an early adopter of some of the latest and greenest technologies. Well, fast forward one year, and some opportunities are still there, but some of the proverbial low-hanging fruit is now on the next branch up. With the longawaited passing of waterborne legislation, the government took away that marketing gimmie, in that it’s not really possible or advisable to market your environmental bona fides any longer, solely on the back of your shop’s conversion to what is now (or will soon be) a mandatory product. In essence, the motto would go from “We’re proactive and environmentally conscious” to “We obey the law.” As you can see, one has a much nicer community feel to it, and the other isn’t really worth bragging about. So is that the end of your eco-focused opportunities? Well, yes and no. As with anything in advertising and promotions, it’s all a question of positioning and perspective, and that’s where the next, and frankly more profitable, phase comes into play: sustainability. More than just a tree-hugger buzzword, sustainability involves much more than just switching to a low-VOC paint product (although that helps); it’s a much broader concept that can get your shop firmly into the black, all while improving your green image with the community at large. Finding efficiencies, managing energy and water use, cutting down waste, and smart parts ordering are all a part of the sustainability mantra that can have a significant impact both on your bottom line and your shop’s ability to promote its social consciousness. Sure, nowadays just about anyone still in business can or will soon be able to fly their own green flag on account of

their legislated conversion to waterborne; but when that’s no longer a differentiator, how long do you think it will take insurance partners and the broader public to start looking a little deeper, and start expecting more? An important question for shop owners today who have been riding the waterborne bandwagon is what will they find? Will they find a truly environmentally conscious business, or will they find a company that has been touting the virtues of its greenness purely on account of a switch to lowVOC paint, while at the same time paying little attention to other obvious environmental factors? If they do, you can guarantee that mere lip service will translate into bad word of mouth. Fortunately, in this issue you’ll find a number of articles designed to help you on your way to a greener future. From our annual recyclers directory, loaded with contacts and businesses that are looking to become a more regular component of your repair cycle, to our annual waterborne paint supplement, there is plenty of information to go around, and that’s before you get to the online and social media marketing focus of this month’s cover story. In the end, it’s not so much that as a shop you will have to stop promoting your greenness in and around your local community (in fact it’s quite the opposite), as that the eco-consciousness bar, along with that low-hanging fruit, has been raised. Fortunately, it’s by chasing the new edicts of sustainability—about which we’ll be sure to keep you up to date—and actively promoting your progress through new and exciting media, that you’ll likely see the greatest impact on your bottom line. That’s how the new green can get you back to black. B J.D. Ney, Editor jdney@bodyshopbiz.com

EDITOR J.D. Ney 416-510-6839 jdney@bodyshopbiz.com PUBLISHER Andrew Ross 416-510-6763 aross@bodyshopbiz.com SALES MANAGER Jay Armstrong 416-510-6745 jarmstrong@bodyshopbiz.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Jim Petsis 416-510-6842 jpetsis@bodyshopbiz.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Steven Hofmann 416-510-6757 shofmann@bizinfogroup.ca ART DIRECTOR Choo Hwee Kuan PRINT MANAGER Phyllis Wright CIRCULATION MANAGER Selina Rahaman 416-442-5600 ext.3528 CUSTOMER SERVICE Roshni Thava 416-442-5600 ext 3555 VICE-PRESIDENT Alex Papanou PRESIDENT Bruce Creighton

BODYSHOP is published by BIG Magazines LP, a div. of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd. 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, ON M3C 4J2 Phone 416-442-5600 Fax 416-510-5140 Subscription rates: Canada – $39.95 (add applicable taxes) per year, $62.95 (add applicable taxes) for 2 years, single copy $7.00. USA and all other foreign – US$61.95 per year. U.S. single copy US$10.00. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, either in part or full, including photocopying and recording, without the written consent of the copyright owner. Nor may any part of this publication be stored in a retrieval system of any nature without prior written consent. US Office of Publication: 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304-1118. Periodicals postage paid at Niagara Falls, NY. US Postmaster: send address changes to Bodyshop PO Box 1118, Niagara Falls, NY 14304-1118. From time to time we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or service may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact us via one of the following methods: Tel: 1-800-268-7742 Fax: 416-4422191 E-Mail: privacyofficer@bizinfogroup.ca Mail to: Privacy Officer, Business Information Group, 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800 Toronto, ON M3C 4J2 ISSN 0045-2319 Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40069240 Return postage guaranteed. Send change of address notices, undeliverable copies and subscription orders to: Circulation Dept. — Bodyshop Magazine, 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, ON M3C 4J2 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Publications Assistance Program towards our mailing costs. PAP Registration NO.11024 Member of Member of Inc. Inc.

4 Bodyshop l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

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Paint cars faster than ever before. Speed up your operations and increase productivity with DuPont™ Cromax® Pro waterborne basecoat. With 1.5 coat coverage, wet-on-wet application and no flash time between coats, it’s easy to see why leading shops are making the switch to DuPont™ Cromax® Pro. And for even faster results, DuPont™ ColorNet® Color Proofing can give you great color matches before a single drop of paint is mixed. Just a few of the ways that DuPont Refinish can help you reach your operational goals today— while getting ahead of tomorrow’s environmental regulations. To learn more about increasing your productivity visit www.cromaxpro.dupont.com or speak with a DuPont Refinish waterborne conversion specialist at 1.800.668.6945, prompt 5.

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The Training Guru I-CAR and AIA pick their man T

he Automotive Industries Association of Canada recently announced that Andrew Shepherd has been selected as the new Collision Training Director, to oversee the delivery of I-CAR and partner training to the collision sector in Canada. With his extensive background in training and professional development as well as experience in association operations and national committee support, Andrew will be responsible for building the infrastructure in Canada to deliver, monitor, track, and grow training for all aspects of the collision repair industry. Additional duties will include strategic planning, partnership development, industry relations, business planning, data collection, committee and advisory group development, creation of a trainer network, and liaison with the I-CAR head office in the U.S. “Our priority in the short term will be to solidify and simplify the administration of the system, by bringing some more automation and Web-based access. Secondly, we’d like to expand geographically, particularly in B.C. where we’re a little slim, and in Quebec with more material in French,” says Shepherd. Support for the new posting is also apparent around the industry. “Andrew clearly demonstrated that there is a strong fit with his experience and his passion for execution and our industry needs. I am truly excited that Andrew is joining our industry and will lead the training and continuing education requirements for our industry at a time when we need it most,” states Larry Jefferies of CARSTAR Automotive Canada, a participant in the AIA I-Car Transition Committee. “AIA recognizes the diverse needs and priorities of its membership base

6 %RG\VKRS l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Andrew Shepherd

and is pleased to have been granted the opportunity to develop a program that significantly addresses the training needs of the collision sector. Andrew is passionate about training and eager to take up his leadership role with this project. We hope you will all join us in welcoming Andrew to the association as of March 8th,” adds AIA president Marc Brazeau. Following I-CAR’s 2008 decision to cease collision repair training operations in Canada as of 2010, a memorandum of understanding has been signed by I-CAR International and AIA Canada,

and a full license agreement designed to specifically meet the needs of the Canadian marketplace is in progress. AIA Canada will assume the management of the delivery of I-CAR products and services in Canada, and is committed to making the transition as seamless as possible for all parties involved. The launch date in Canada for I-CAR under the AIA umbrella will be May 1, 2010. Upon that launch, Shepherd told Bodyshop magazine that one of his chief goals for the program would be to provide top-quality human resources training through the I-CAR network. “I ran a similar program in the construction industry, and saw firsthand the impact that HR training can bring in terms of professionalism,” he says. “The professionalism of practitioners can be a tremendous motivator to attract new people to the industry, and well as in employee retention. So, in the near future, I’d like to see an integrated HR training kit as part of the overall toolbox, and the more easily accessible that training the better.” Keep checking the pages of Bodyshop magazine as well our website at www.bodyshopbiz.com for updates on this exciting new chapter in the Canadian collision repair industry.

Stay up to date at ZZZ 92&FRPSOLDQFH FRP

New Fixture at Fix Auto F

ix Auto Canada has announced the appointment of Manon Duplantie as president of the company. Recognized for her enthusiasm and leadership, Ms. Duplantie takes over the helm of the network of auto bodyshops in Canada, with 175 franchises in the country in addition to more than 75 other Fix Auto facilities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is with immense pride that I have accepted the position of President of Fix Auto Canada,â&#x20AC;? Duplantie says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since I joined the company in 1998, I have always put the accent on innovation and the search for new marketing concepts, with an eye to reinventing the image of the collision repair industry. I therefore plan to keep moving in the same direction, while continuing to capitalize on teamwork and the trust-based relationships that we have cemented over the years with our many business partners as well as our customers.â&#x20AC;? Duplantie joined Fix Auto in 1998 as a customer service representative. When she accepted that position, she had little idea of the stimulating career that lay ahead. She rapidly climbed the corporate ladder and in 1999 was appointed marketing manager of the insurance division for QuĂŠbec, and then sales manager for the entire province in 2000. She rose to vice-president, sales and marketing, in 2002 and, with her associate Guy Bessette, acquired countrywide franchise rights. Duplantie quickly gained widespread industry recognition as the Fix Auto networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preferred point of contact with insurers. She built a reputation as an effective mediator and achieved outstanding results. Indeed, in 2005 Akzo Nobel acknowledged her with its award as one of the Most Influential Women in the North American auto body repair industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always believed that good leaders must know how to convey their passion for the job and draw out their teammatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; talents,â&#x20AC;? she explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is what constantly drives me in my work, because at the end of the day, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the foundation of the reputation of a company like Fix Auto, where success hinges on quality of service and sound fundamental values.â&#x20AC;? Created in April 1992, the Fix Auto bodyshop concept today encompasses 250 garages across Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and France, offering a full range of collision repair services.

ICBC Looking into Toyota Claims According to a report from cbc.ca, British Columbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public insurer, ICBC, is taking a closer look at collision claims made by drivers of recently recalled Toyota vehicles. At press time, the automaker has recalled some eight million vehicles for a problem involving gas pedals sticking to the floor mats, causing unintended acceleration. Mark Jan Vrem, a spokesperson for the insurer, told the CBC that a dedicated adjuster will be reviewing the files to determine whether or not the defect had a hand in causing individual accidents involving Toyotas. He added that legal action against the automotive giant could be forthcoming, pending the results of the ICBCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investigation.

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8 %RG\VKRS l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

,Q WKH 6KDULQJ 0RRG The Automotive Recyclers Association Education Foundation (ARAEF), developer of educational programs and skill training for members of the Automotive Recyclers Association and the automotive recycling industry, has announced its collaboration with I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, a not-for-profit organization that provides training to the collision repair inter-industry. In a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the two organizations outlined plans for mutually promoting the level of knowledge and skills required to improve communication and educational exchanges between the automotive recycling industry and the collision repair industry. “Our planned partnership presents an enormous range of potential benefits to the automotive recycling and collision industries,” says ARAEF managing director Virginia Whelan. “This collaboration will undoubtedly result in new educational training tools and endeavours, with tremendous potential for innovation and far-reaching benefit.” Adds Jamie Jacobs, I-CAR instructional designer, “A mutual understanding of each other’s industries can go a long way in improving communications and meeting customer expectations. This agreement between the ARAEF and I-CAR is a big step forward toward this goal, and provides a commitment from both industries to continuing education with regard to the considerations for recycled parts usage during collision repairs.” The exchange between the ARAEF and I-CAR will improve communication and promote the value of education between automotive recyclers and collision repairers focused on the automotive collision claim and repair process.

$OOGDWD 5HOHDVHV 5HSDLU ,QIR :KLWH 3DSHU Repair information provider Alldata LLC has released a white paper discussing the need for collision repair facilities to obtain vehicle manufacturers’ OE repair information. “The people who build the cars have the final word on how to repair them after a collision,” says Dan Espersen, Alldata senior program manager for collision. “The manufacturers have very specific requirements about sectioning, weld types, panel attachment, handling new materials, hybrid safety, and a lot more. And every manufacturer has its own requirements.” Given how rapidly vehicle technology is changing, more and more collision shops are realizing that they need up-todate information for working on alternative steels, magnesium, aluminum, composites, and plastics.

In some cases, new adhesives are required to make repairs, rather than traditional welding techniques. According to the white paper, new and ever-evolving technologies, economic pressures, and requirements mandated by insurance company agreements all put enormous pressure on collision shops. With slim profit margins and labour rates held in place by market forces, increased productivity is becoming essential to survival. “This white paper resulted from talking to a lot of people who are living with today’s business and economic challenges, and from a very informative round table discussion held at the NACE conference in November,” says Espersen. “It confirmed for me what I already knew, that OE information can help mitigate a lot of the issues facing shops today.” For more information or to download the white paper, please visit www.alldata. com.

PPG MVP Business Solutions Conference

Collision repair professionals from throughout North America made their way to San Diego for the 2010 PPG MVP Business Solutions Conference. So did Bodyshop Magazine. Attendees were treated to top-drawer business training sessionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rex Houze talked about what it takes to win, and Mike Gunnells and David Knapp provided an Introduction to X-Ray Repair Planning, to name just twoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and a little entertainment too. More pics at www.bodyshopbiz.com.

www.bodyshopbiz.com l April 2010 l Bodyshop 9

cover

The Marketing Report

Social

Settings

Grinding out a social media marketing strategy By: J.D. Ney

hen Bodyshop examined the idea of green marketing just one year ago, the direction seemed obvious. Shops across the country that had been early adopters of waterborne technology had a story to tell, and that story was their environmental conscience and good corporate citizenship, well in advance of any looming government regulation.

10 Bodyshop l April 2010 l www.bodysh opbiz.com

Facebook Friendly: Jamie Majer, Marketing Coordinator with South Barrie Collision, in Barrie Ontario. Photo by: Renee Kirk

cover

Fast-forward one year, and it’s not easy to make the same claims. Now that the new regulations have come into effect, the switch to waterborne can’t quite so easily be painted as a matter of mere eco-friendliness, nor will it remain a point of differentiation among shops for long. As a result, savvy marketers in the collision repair business have had to look elsewhere for new advertising frontiers, and new media in which to convey their messages. For some, that has meant a return to the tried-and-tested flyer, radio, and direct mail campaigns, but for others, it was time to look for something a little less traditional. For those like Jamie Majer, marketing coordinator at South Barrie Collision in Barrie, Ontario, the decision to focus at least some of the shop’s marketing efforts towards the newfangled world of social media, and in particular towards online stalwarts like Facebook and Twitter, seemed like an obvious choice. “My number-one responsibility as a marketing coordinator is to drive work in the door,” says Majer. “So while we just got into social media recently, it’s been on the brain for a while now. It’s certainly shown its relevance to other businesses, and they have proven that it can work. I like it, because it provides a way for us to reach our customer on a daily basis.” According to Majer, the customer in question changes depending on the strategy of the shop’s social media choices, which Majer admits has been something of a learning process. “With Twitter especially, we started out with a lot of short posts about safe driving tips and other suggestions like that, but then

realized that a significant percentage of our target market on Twitter was actually the insurance community,” she says. “So we adjusted our strategy, and now many of our posts allow us to stay visible in the eyes of the insurance brokers too.” Which isn’t to say that local drivers are ignored in favour of big insurance partners. “Understanding that the average bodyshop consumer desires to become more knowledgeable on the service we are providing, we use Twitter as an effective outlet to educate the end user with any pertinent industry information, or even articles on what to do in case of an accident,” says Majer. “Twitter and Facebook are excellent ways to build and maintain these growing relationships.” While maintaining relationships is certainly a significant part of what a strategic social media program can accomplish, consultants like Chris Sheehy, president of Autobody Consulting Group in Rhode Island, say that these new forms of online promotion can actually be much more powerful than that. What’s more, he says they will be absolutely vital in the future, as the younger generation starts to work its way into the collision repair market. According to Sheehy, constant activity on social media sites like Twitter not only raises your online profile it also increases your chances of being found by customers looking for service in your area. “In terms of search engine optimization, social media is huge,” says Sheehy. “If you play it right, a potential customer searching bodyshops in your area will type in the search and Continued on page 12

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FRYHU Continued from page 11

find your shop and its website—but they’ll also see all of this other stuff,” he adds. Of course, by “stuff” Sheehy is talking about all of the material you’ve provided to your online social media profiles. It’s stuff like Majer’s safe driving tips, or articles about insurance. It’s stuff like South Barrie’s Facebook fan page that features photos of the shop’s best fixes, and it’s other fun stuff Majer says is in the works, like local community news. “Ideally then, they’ll look at all of that material and think, ‘Oh, okay, this person is a part of the fabric of my community; I’ll support his business,” says Sheehy. Despite the positives, social media certainly has its detractors among those in the industry. In fact, according to a poll question posted on our website, bodyshopbiz.com, less than half of respondents said their shop had any kind of social media strategy at all, which is a huge mistake, according to Sheehy. “I’d say the industry has done a pretty good job at marketing to its current clients, like the baby-boomers,” he observes, “but there is a younger generation now that we need to pay attention to. That younger age bracket relies heavily on word of mouth, and more importantly, the kind of referrals and testimonials you get with social media. They simply won’t believe something that comes from a company website. They believe and interpret what others are saying about it. So, they’re very dependent on the Internet to get this information. If they can’t find you there, or find out what people are saying about you there, then they’re not going to get to know you.” Getting that conversation started is where Sheehy says social media opportunities like Facebook are most handy. By creating a Facebook page for your shop, you allow your customers and others in the area to get a look at your business, learn what you’re all about, and more importantly, allow customers and “fans” to use it as a forum for discussions. In short, you’re encouraging that sort of third-party endorsement, or online word of mouth, that the next generation seeks. “If I were a shop owner, I’d definitely want to have a Facebook page,” says Sheehy. “It gives you so many tools to search for and connect with local communities in your area, then reach out to them, friend them, open the lines of communication.” In terms of measurable success at the shop level, Majer says that although South Barrie’s Facebook involvement is still quite nascent, the response in the community has been undeniable. “The results of our Facebook page have been positive. We just recently started up a South Barrie Collision page, and our fans are climbing in numbers. On our site I post pictures of our favourite hits and fixes, educate the consumer on the products and services we can offer, and thus keep the channels of communication open. It’s just a great way to let the community know about some of the other services we can provide at the shop.” In the end, both Sheehy and Majer acknowledge that a social media strategy is not going to be an easy sell for everyone in the business. It’s a technology and a medium that demands attention and daily updates, a fact that can scare some people away. “To get all of the advantages, you have to have a complete profile that is consistently updated,” says Sheehy of both Facebook and Twitter. “I search around and see a lot of bodyshops who have a presence in this space, but I see an awful lot of oneliners, and if that’s all you have, then you’re missing out on the search optimization benefits,” he adds. 12 %RG\VKRS l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

What’s more, it’s a new technology aimed partially at a younger demographic, and that is bound to lose the interest of some owners and managers. “There’s definitely a generation gap, and so it was a bit of a hard sell,” says Majer. “But what I realized was that being on top of the latest marketing trends is another way we could position ourselves as leaders in the minds of both drivers and brokers. It’s a powerful form of free advertising.” At the end of the day, seeing as social media is inherently waste-free, carbon-free, VOC-free, and cost-free, this sort of marketing is certainly worth a look. And chances are, if you’ve got a younger staff member in the paint booth, on the desk, or anywhere else, you’ve probably already found a social media expert. Time to get the conversation started.

The Medium and Its Messages

MTW_ IZM [WUM WN \PM <_Q\\MZQVO MNNWZ\[ NZWU \PM \MIU I\ ;W]\P *IZZQM +WTTQ[QWV 1\¼[ QUXWZ\IV\ \W VW\M \PI\ _PQTM [WUM WN \PM XW[\[ IZM IJW]\ \PM [PWX¼[ J][QVM[[ IVL _PI\¼[ OWQVO WV QV[QLM Q\[ _ITT[ UW[\ PI^M U]KP UWZM ZMTM^IVKM \W \PM [PWX¼[ K][\WUMZ[ .ZWU JW\P \PM TWKIT LZQ^MZ IVL \PM QV[]ZIVKM JZWSMZ XMZ[XMK\Q^M \PM [PWX¼[ <_Q\\MZ [\ZI\MOa Q[ IKKWZLQVO \W UIZSM\QVO KWWZLQVI\WZ 2IUQM 5IRMZ ¹[\ZI\MOQKITTa XW[Q\QWVQVO W]Z[MT^M[ I\ \PM NWZMNZWV\ WN W]Z \IZOM\ UIZSM\ º • @SB_Collision: Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) have launched The Watershed Awards. • What’s New: In Brief [proceeds to give a link to an article in Canadian Underwriter magazine] • Posted speed limits are set for ideal road and weather conditions. It is up to you to reduce your speed in hazardous conditions. • Speeding.....It’s better to arrive late than not at all! • Feeling tired? Pull off the road and rest! • Always drive with your headlights on; a car is visible for nearly four times the distance with its headlights on even during daytime hours. • 33 percent of people who die in vehicle fatalities failed to buckle up. Please be safe and buckle up! • Talking on your cell phone while driving increases your chances of having an accident by 400%. Drive now...talk later! • South Barrie Collision Centre has repaired over 17 thousand vehicles back to pre-accident condition! WOW • SBCC quarterly newsletter is out! Get your copy today... send your email to infor@southbarriecollision.com • Broker course tomorrow at South Barrie Collision, I can’t wait!

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AkzoNobel Launches Wanda Brand Website Wanda, one of the fastest growing car refinish brands of AkzoNobel, has launched a new website designed to provide distributors and bodyshops in North America a more in-depth product and communication resource. The new site can be accessed at www.wandarefinish.com. It was designed to service the growing brand, more than 250 distributors, and a wide array of customers by providing a destination for comprehensive product and support information as well as improved functionality. An array of up-to-date information includes products, sales support, purchase and distribution, answers to often-asked questions, and colour tools. The site features user-friendly navigation and easy

access to technical data, distributor information, and current Wanda promotions and activities. Wanda’s interactive distributor section with its enhanced installments to news, information, and sales tools will offer online training and testing, as well as online

PPG MVP Green Belt Training Coming to Toronto

building stronger processes and a process improvement culture. • Shop tours and assignments to reinforce the understanding and confidence critical to successful implementation.

PPG’s MVP Business Solutions Green Belt Training event in Toronto, Ont., is being held June 7 to 10. The four-day intensive training, available to owners and managers of collision repair centres using PPG Refinish products, teaches the practical applications of Lean Six Sigma principles to improve quality, speed, cost, performance, and competitiveness for vehicle repair facilities. MVP Green Belt Training includes: • Success factors that enable organizations to thrive in rapidly changing environments. • Simulation games to learn Lean Six Sigma fundamentals and what cycle time reduction means to the collision repair processes. • Practical application of Lean Six Sigma principles through X-Ray Repair Planning and fundamentals such as 5S and Workplace Organization. • Leadership and implementation modules that address the need for everyone in an organization to participate in WB

14 THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO WATERBORNE CONVERSION

Ingersoll Rand Provides Site Evaluations for Waterborne Paint Users Ingersoll Rand is offering site evaluations on complete compressed air systems for businesses and facilities moving to the use of waterborne paints. The compressed air and air treatment systems supporting paint booths will be evaluated by an Ingersoll Rand compressed air professional to ensure necessary requirements are met for the use of waterborne paints. The move to waterborne paint systems is an effective way to protect the environment without reducing quality and productivity. Waterborne paint systems lower the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, improving air quality and the environment. “The move to waterborne paint is becoming a requirement in many areas as more and more businesses are focusing on the environment,” says Matl

www.VOCcompliance.com

ordering, affording distributors access to Wanda’s reference materials and video demonstrations of procedures and processes for product applications. This section also features a message centre allowing distributors immediate access to important Wanda news and bulletins. “At the pace business moves in this day and age, having the ability to communicate with customers is essential. We are excited the new Wanda website gives us that and more,” says Mark Rapson, Wanda brand product manager. “The site will be a valuable tool for customer communication and interaction, providing a wealth of resources to help [our customers] advance their business.”

thew Smith, marketing manager for Ingersoll Rand. “An evaluation by Ingersoll Rand of [a shop’s] compressed air system will help ensure the same flawless quality of work following the move to waterborne paints. Only through a complete understanding and evaluation of the shop’s goals and needs, based on a site assessment, can decisions be made to make sure conversion costs are minimized.” The on-site evaluation will determine if the compressed air system is equipped to handle the additional air requirements for dryers as well as test the quality of the air to ensure that it is clean and dry, which is more critical than ever with the use of waterborne paints. Additionally, Ingersoll Rand compressed air professionals can make recommendations on ways to maximize reliability and improve the efficiency of a shop’s compressed air systems, thus helping to reduce energy costs. To find the local Ingersoll Rand professional nearest you, go to http://www. ingersollrandproducts.com/contact/ air/index.aspx.

Personal standard of perfection Where close isn’t good enough, Standox delivers high-quality German refinish products and leading-edge business systems to help your collision center meet challenges and archive higher levels of success - for maximum quality performance and reputation. With Standox, perfection is easy. Standox - a leader in Europe, successful throughout the world. www.standoxna.com Copyright© 2010 DuPont. Standox® is a registered trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

The Art of Refinishing

An Exemption To Every

Rule

Tertiary Butyl Acetate (TBAC): The Latest VOC-Exempt Solvent in Canada By Daniel B. Pourreau, Lyondell Chemical Company, a LyondellBasell company

n 2009, Environment Canada enacted a new VOC (volatile organic compound) regulation for automotive refinishing facilities. This is probably not news to most bodyshop owners, since the new regulation will affect almost every aspect of their operations, including a change from the use of solvent-borne to waterborne colour coats. What may have escaped notice was the VOC exemption of tert-butyl acetate (a.k.a. TBAC or acetic acid, 1,1–dimethylethyl ester), an ester solvent introduced by Lyondell in 1997 to replace VOCs and other exempt solvents in coatings and cleaners. Since the 2004 VOC exemption by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, TBAC has rapidly become an important compliance tool in the United States. TBAC is now VOC-exempt in 49 states and several California Air Districts and Counties. In 2005, Lyondell petitioned VOC/AB/BOD 4/3/09 2:37toPM Environment Canada addPage TBAC1to the list of exempt compounds in CEPA Schedule 1, and in 2009, Environment Canada added TBAC to the list of exempt compounds in the Automotive Refinish

and Architectural Coatings VOC Regulations. The new definition of VOC “excluded compounds” is as follows: “‘Excluded compounds’ means the compounds that are excluded under item 65 of Schedule 1 to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 as well as acetic acid, 1,1–dimethylethyl ester (C6H1202).” The exemption of TBAC is important because the number of practical and cost-

effective VOC-exempt solvents is very limited. Exempt solvents used in coatings and cleaners in the U.S. include acetone, PCBTF, methyl acetate, and TBAC. Because TBAC was exempted last and has not yet become fully exempted in California, it is not as widely used in the U.S. as acetone or PCBTF. However, the Canadian exemption and stricter VOC rules in Continued on page 18

VOCCompliance.com Your Source for the Best Information on the Low-VOC/Waterborne Refinish World VOCCompliance.com is an initiative of Sponsored by these fine companies:

16 THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO WATERBORNE CONVERSION

www.VOCcompliance.com

EMPTY PLASTIC BOTTLES? THERE’S SOMETHING IN THEM FOR YOU. Stewardship Ontario is an industry organization that is committed to building sustainable communities and a greener Ontario by helping businesses, like yours, recycle certain hazardous and special wastes efﬁciently and cost effectively.

As part of the Do What You Can program, we will arrange to collect and recycle these items directly from your automotive service centre – at no charge to you: • empty oil and antifreeze bottles • antifreeze • oil ﬁlters To ﬁnd out more about our Do What You Can program, call 416-919-5823.

Stewardship Ontario is a leader in the development and delivery of innovative and efficient recycling and waste diversion programs. This Do What You Can program is funded by the industries (our Stewards) that make and market these products. Visit us at: www.stewardshipontario.ca

dowhatyoucan.ca

Continued from page 16

automotive coatings; its drawbacks are high cost and unpleasant odour. TBAC also has a strong, fruity odour but is less expensive and less dense than PCBTF, resulting in lower formulation costs. Exempt solvent properties are listed in Table 1. TBAC is a medium-fast evaporating solvent (2.8 times faster than n-BuAc) with low water solubility (0.3%) and a flashpoint of 40°F (4˚C). It is an excellent replacement for toluene, xylene, n-butyl acetate, and other relatively non-polar, medium-fast-evaporating VOC solvents. TBAC is used predominantly in lowVOC, solvent-based automotive products, including primers, sealers, and undercoats; topcoats and clearcoats; activators/hardeners; and reducers. TBAC is also an effective solvent for degreasing and paint cleanup. It has been approved by the U.S. Department of Defense as a hand-wipe solvent and has been successfully tested by Raytheon as a replacement for MEK in cleaning and coating applications.

the 13 northeastern states that form the Ozone Transport Commission (OTC) provide a new incentive to use TBAC; its benefits compared to other exempt solvents used in refinishing products are discussed below.

Safety, Performance, and Cost Benefits Exempt solvents can be used anywhere VOC solvents can. However, as with conventional solvents, they must be carefully selected and blended so their properties meet the product requirements. For example, there is a limit to the amount of acetone or methyl acetate that can be used in a formulation because their very fast evaporation rates and water solubility can cause “blushing,” a surface haze caused by condensation of moisture into the coating, or other surface appearance defects. Due to its slower evaporation rate and low water affinity, TBAC-based coatings are easier to apply under a range of conditions and are less likely to result in surface defects than faster-evaporating solvents. TBAC is less flammable than either of the solvents by a significant margin. This reduces the flammability of coatings and cleaners, resulting in a safer work environment. PCBTF (para-chlorobenzotrifluoride) is another exempt solvent used in

Environmental Benefits Exempt solvents such as TBAC produce negligible amounts of ozone and respi-

Table 1: Properties of VOC-Exempt Solvents Solvent Properties

Acetone

Methyl Acetate

TBAC

PCBTF

67-64-1

79-20-9

540-88-5

98-56-6

Vapour pressure, Torr at 20°C

185

180

5.3

Electrical Resistance, Mohm

<0.01

4.0

23.8

Density, g/mL at 20°C

0.79

0.932

0.867

1.34

6.59

7.78

7.24

11.2

Evaporation rate, n-BuAc = 1.0

6.3

6.2

2.8

0.9

Surface tension, dyn/cm at 20°C

23.3

25.2

22.4

25.0

Solubility in water, %

100

0.3

<0.1

Flashpoint, ˚F (˚C)

-4(-20)

5(-15)

40(4)

109(43)

Flammability range, % (UEL-LEL)

10.2%

10.9%

5.6%

9.6%

PEL, TWA ppm

750

200

MIR, g ozone/g

0.40

0.07

0.20

0.11

CAS number

(lb/gal) at 20°C

18 THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO WATERBORNE CONVERSION

www.VOCcompliance.com

rable particulate matter. Environment Canada estimates that more than 5,000 tons of reactive VOCs are emitted each year from coatings and surface cleaners used in automotive refinishing operations in Canada. These emissions potentially produce 18,550 tons of toxic ozone when released in polluted urban environments, and an unknown amount of respirable particulate matter. The new regulations will reduce these emissions by an estimated 40%. However, the remaining VOC emissions still have the potential to produce 11,130 tons of ozone. Replacing these remaining VOCs with low-reactivity exempt solvents could further reduce ozone formed to 510 tons per year, a 95% reduction. This illustrates that the replacement of VOCs with exempt solvents in product formulations and operations is a very effective way to reduce the ozone formed from their emissions, without changing technologies or equipment. In addition, solventbased products do not require as much energy to dry as waterborne products, thereby reducing operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusions TBAC is a new VOC-exempt solvent for automotive refinishing operations in Canada. Products formulated with TBAC offer safety, performance, and cost benefits over those formulated with other exempt compounds. TBAC has an intermediate evaporation rate and broad solvency for resins, greases, and soils, making it a useful solvent for VOC-compliant coatings, reducers, and cleaners. Finally, lowVOC, solvent-based products are cost-effective tools for VOC compliance and can offer energy savings over water-based products and superior environmental benefits.

Promoting Careers in Collision Repair

Invest in your future, become a 2010 CCIF Skills Program Sponsor today!

For more information

Contact Leanne Blackborow, CCIF Skills Program Director, leanneb@skillscanada.com or (905) 535-1160

www.ccifskillsprogram.com

We support the CCIF Skills Program and wish to contribute financially in support of the following goals:

2010 Sponsorship

 Encouraging young, energetic people to choose careers in collision repair by promoting the Collision Repair Industry to students, parents and educators at Skills Canada Competitions across the country, and at events held by educational institutions or organizations supporting youth.  To create a strong industry presence at the 2010 Canadian Skills Competition that will be attended by 30,000+ students looking at career options in the skilled trades.  To establish Car Painting permanently as a skilled trade represented at annual Canadian Skills Competitions by funding the purchase of a transportable paint booth for use at Provincial/Territorial and Canadian Skills Competitions.  To install the CCIF Skills Program paint booth in a high-tech trailer, if funding can be obtained, allowing the resource to become portable and usable for promoting the industry through Skills Competitions, career fairs, training opportunities, and Try-a-Trade™ and Try-a-Technology demonstration events across Canada.  The creation of promotional materials to raise awareness of Collision Repair as a viable first choice career option.

$ 100

CON TR IB UT IO N L E VE L S $ 1000 $ 2500 $ 5000

$ 500

 Annual Contribution

$ 10,000

Other

 One-Time Contribution

 Quarterly Contribution Amounts Charitable Receipt Required?

Q1  YES

 NO PAYM E N T O PT IO N S

FAX (819) 771-5575

EMAIL aprila@skillscanada.com

MAIL Skills/Compétences Canada #205 – 260 St-Raymond Blvd, Gatineau,QC J9A 3G7 Attn: April Please make cheques payble to Skills/Compétences Canada and indicate CCIF Skills Program. CREDIT CARD ( Visa/MC )

Exp date

Please complete the following: COMPANY NAME

CONTACT NAME

COMPANY ADDRESS CITY

PROVINCE/TERRITORY

POSTAL CODE

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DATE

hazardous materials

High Voltage

Hazards

With the growing number of hybrids on the road, hazardous material now means more than just chemicals

ver since the requirement of wearing insulated rubber gloves, or lineman’s gloves, when working on hybrid electric vehicles was introduced in vehicle service information, there have been questions. Are these really the same gloves worn by those who work with high-voltage power lines? Are these gloves necessary, or are they overkill? Are these gloves only used for disabling and enabling high voltage? What does the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) say about the use of these gloves? This article from the technical gurus at I-CAR is designed to answer these questions.

Glove Requirement Toyota is clear on when insulated rubber gloves should be worn. The vehicle maker states that the gloves should be worn “whenever working near high-voltage components. High-voltage components include the highvoltage battery, system main relay, service plug receptacle and fuse, orange-coloured cables, inverter assembly, electric drive motors, DC-DC converter, and the electric air conditioning compressor.” In other words, the gloves are not just worn when disabling and enabling the high-voltage battery. There are several classes for insulated rubber gloves, from Class 00 to Class 4, depending

on the maximum use voltage that the gloves can withstand. It is generally accepted by vehicle makers that Class 0 gloves are a good choice when working on hybrid electric vehicles, as they are rated at 1,500 volts DC maximum use voltage. Class 0 gloves are solid black in colour. Why is the vehicle maker service information limited as to the care and testing of these gloves? Vehicle makers expect technicians to follow the instructions and requirements from the glove manufacturer. These are commonly printed on the box and the plastic bag the gloves are shipped in. Among the requirements printed on the bag label are the use of leather protective outers, testing requirements, and protecting the gloves from chemicals and other contamination. On the outside of the box, there are precautions to not store the gloves inside out, folded, or in direct sunlight. OSHA addresses the testing, use, and care of rubber insulating gloves in the Personal Protective Equipment Standard 1910.137, Electrical Protective Devices. There are more details in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard Specification for In-Service Care of Insulating Gloves and Sleeves.

Glove Label In the cuff portion of each glove, there’s a nonconductive label. As listed in the table, the label is coloured depending on the glove class. Information on the label may include the glove manufacturer, the class, and the rated maximum-use voltage. The AC voltage rating is only listed on the label, since these gloves are more commonly used when working with AC voltages. The label will also indicate if the

gloves are resistant to ozone (Type II) or nonozone resistant (Type I). The label may indicate the glove size. Insulated rubber gloves are not one-size-fits-all. They should be purchased based on the hand size of the technician who will be wearing them. For some glove manufacturers, there are only three choices: small, medium, and large. Other manufacturers offer half sizes, in inches. To find your measurement, lay your hand palm down on a flat surface and measure the circumference around your finger knuckles. Add one inch to that measurement, and that is your hand size for insulated rubber gloves.

Storage Proper storage is important to help keep the gloves in good condition. The gloves should be stored in a location as cool, dark, and dry as possible. The location should be as free as practicable from ozone, chemicals, oils, solvents, damaging vapours or fumes, and away from electrical discharges and sunlight. Fluorescent light and sunlight are especially harmful to rubber. The gloves should be stored flat, not folded, and not in any manner that will cause stretching or compression. They should be kept inside a protective container or canvas www.bodyshopbiz.com l April 2010 l Bodyshop 21

hazardous materials

bag. The original box that the gloves came in is also a good storage compartment for the gloves.

Inspection Before Use OSHA requires that the technician who will use the insulated rubber gloves inspect the gloves for damage before each use, and immediately following any incident that can reasonably be suspected of having caused damage. If the inspection finds any of the following, the gloves should be discarded: • Hole, tear, puncture, or cut • Embedded foreign object • Ozone checking, which looks like dry rot. Ozone checking is a series of interlacing cracks produced by ozone on rubber under mechanical stress. • Texture changes caused by swelling, softening, hardening, or becoming sticky or inelastic The gloves should be cleaned as needed to remove foreign substances. If any defect is found that might damage the insulating properties, such as spilled chemicals that do not wash off, the gloves should be submitted to a testing facility for testing. Minor damage to the gloves can be repaired, but only in the area between the wrist and the reinforced edge of the opening, called the “gauntlet area” of the glove. In this area, small cuts, tears, or punctures may be repaired by applying a compatible patch. Minor blemishes in this same area may be repaired with a compatible liquid compound. The patched area should have electrical and physical properties equal to those of the surrounding material. No more than three patches may be applied to one glove. Any gloves that are repaired should be retested by a testing facility before they are used. OSHA also specifies that an air test should be done in the field before each use, and at other times if there is cause to suspect any damage. The ASTM standard specifies that an air test can be done by holding the glove by the cuff and rolling the gloves gently toward the fingers to form an air pocket inside the glove. While the air is entrapped, check the gloves for 22 Bodyshop l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

punctures or checking, listen for escaping air, and hold the gloves up against your cheek to feel for escaping air. If the glove will not hold pressure, the glove is damaged and should not be used. The air test can also be done with a mechanical inflator. On the higher classes of gloves, an inflator is required because the gloves are too stiff to be rolled up by hand. Remove all jewellery before putting the gloves on. This is a common recommendation whenever working in a collision repair facility, but is of special importance here so as to not snag the gloves on rings or watches, etc., potentially damaging the gloves.

Protective Leather Outers Insulated rubber gloves should be protected while being worn with protective leather outer gloves. OSHA excludes the limited use of Class 00 and Class 0 gloves from this requirement. That is because for most industries, these lighter gloves are used where high finger dexterity might be needed to handle small equipment and parts, and leather outers might be too bulky. For most work on hybrid vehicles, however, leather outers are highly recommended by the glove manufacturers and vehicle makers. The leather helps prevent catching the rubber gloves on sharp sheet metal parts and frayed wiring, possibly puncturing the rubber. The leather outers should be exclusive for this purpose. Do not use the leather outers as general use gloves. The leather outers should be sized and shaped so that the rubber glove is not deformed. The top of the cuff of the leather outer should be shorter than the rolled top of the insulated rubber glove by at least 13 mm (1/2 in). The leather outers should be inspected just as often as inspection of the insulated rubber gloves. They should not have holes, tears, or other defects that affect their ability to give protection to the insulated rubber gloves. The inner surface of the leather outers should be inspected for sharp or pointed objects. Care should be taken to keep the outers away from oils, greases, chemicals, solvents, and other materials that may damage the insulated rubber gloves. This also goes for the insulated rubber gloves. Insulated rubber gloves are available from some manufacturers in kit form, which includes the leather outers and a canvas bag for storage.

Testing at a Testing Facility Insulated rubber gloves are tested before being sold, but that’s not the last test. The gloves

should be tested every six months by an official testing facility. Once the gloves are removed from the plastic bag they were shipped in, they start to deteriorate. So even if they are used only once, they will require retesting in six months’ time. If the gloves were purchased, but not put into use for several months, retesting may be required before the gloves are even used for the first time. OSHA states that the gloves may not be used if they haven’t been tested within the previous 12 months. Find the nearest testing facility by doing an Internet search for “glove testing.” The testing is the same no matter which facility you use. The ASTM standard includes requirements that every testing facility must follow. The standard requires that the testing facility: • wash the gloves. • do a preliminary inspection similar to what is done in the field. • do a more detailed inspection which includes turning them inside out and may include inflating them with air. • make any necessary repairs. • do an electrical test. Note in the table in that the electrical retest is at a higher-rated voltage than the initial test. The gloves are electrically tested while filled with water and immersed in a water bath. The test voltage is applied between one and three continuous minutes. Once the testing is completed, the test facility may note the date of the test directly on the gloves. Employers are required to certify that the gloves have been tested in accordance with OSHA requirements. This can be done by noting the results and dates of the test in a log, or by noting whether the test dates are printed on the gloves. The test facility we contacted does print the test dates directly on the gloves and maintains seven years of reports, which can be provided to the repair facility if ever needed.

Conclusion Class 0 insulated rubber gloves, or lineman’s gloves, are required whenever working near highvoltage parts on an electric or hybrid electric vehicle. There are strict requirements for using, protecting, storing, inspecting, and testing of these gloves. If you are a technician assigned to do work on one of these vehicles, become familiar with the glove requirements. B

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5HF\FOHG 3DUWV We ask the technical pros at I-CAR for their take

ollision repair facilities have various options for replacement parts when repairing collision-damaged vehicles. One option for consideration is that recycled, or salvaged, parts may be used to replace damaged parts. Recycled parts may be referred to by various names, including used, rebuilt, factory-rebuilt (mechanical parts), remanu-

factured, reconditioned, refurbished, relined, restored, repainted, or repackaged. Depending on the situation, using recycled parts may be a viable option for collision repairs. Recycled parts may be a consideration for an effective use of available parts. Additionally, there is an environmental benefit to using recycled parts. The decision to

use recycled parts should be made with all involved parties in agreement, including the vehicle owner, the insurer, and the collision repair facility. Be aware that some vehicle makers may not recommend the use of recycled parts for collision repair because of concerns about the condition of these parts. For example, some vehicle makers state that multiple factors can influence the quality of recycled parts, which include but are not limited to exposure to weather, improper removal or transfer of parts, or hidden structural damage (see Figure 1). Some vehicle makers have position statements regarding warranty claims if recycled parts are used.

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Other than restraint system parts, I-CAR does not have a position on the use of recycled parts. However, if a recycled part is being installed, there are specific criteria that must be met before installation. For example, do not install a recycled part that has unrepairable damage, corrosion that has caused pitting, improper previous repairs, and/or missing mounting locations. I-CAR does address recycled part preparation considerations. When installing a recycled sheet metal part, for example, clean the part to remove dirt, wax, grease, undercoatings, corrosion, etc. Make sure it is trimmed properly to fit. Recycled restraint system parts should not be used. Without knowing the condition of the vehicle, it is difficult to know if an airbag, for example, functioned properly during the last collision. Continued on page 26

Think

lean. UPCOMING PPG MVP EVENTS

“My favorite way to learn is by talking to other shop owners and managers who share the same concerns I do. Working together we can achieve things that none of could do separately. That’s the value MVP Business Solutions offers.” Tom Bissonnette Parr Autobody Saskatoon, SK

THE PPG MVP TEAM HAS FIVE UPCOMING EVENTS NOT TO MISS: • MVP Production & Cycle Time, April 21& 22 - Moncton, NB • MVP Roundtable, April 21 - Mississauga, ON • MVP Advanced Estimating, May 4 & 5 - Chatham, ON • MVP Art of Communication, May 18 & 19 - Mississauga, ON • Green Belt, Throughput Performance Training June 7 - 10 - Barrie, ON For more information and registration, visit www.ppgmvp.com.

recycled parts

Ordering Recycled Parts Depending on the recycled parts supplier, parts may have to be identified by category type when ordering. Category types include body, mechanical/electrical, and miscellaneous. Be sure the parts are appropriate for the vehicle make, model, and year, and any included options. A collision repair facility will likely be required to provide a VIN and option information to ensure the correct parts are ordered. Some recycled parts may be provided as an assembly. Be aware that certain parts may not be included with an assembly. For example, a door assembly may not include pillar-welded hinges. A fender assembly may not include mouldings, emblems, antenna, etc. Verify all parts that will be included with a recycled part assembly. Recycled parts should be provided in a usable condition, and should be appropriately cleaned before delivery to the collision repair facility. Before installation, verify the usability of the recycled parts and ensure that those parts will not compromise the repair of the vehicle.

Recycled Parts Grading Recycled parts may be graded to indicate the condition of the part. Based on the Automo26 Bodyshop l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

tive Recyclers Association (ARA) standards, recycled parts are given an “A”, “B”, or “C” designation, depending on the effort required to make the part “like new.” The additional designations “X” and “NIQ” may also be used. Parts given an “X” designation are un-graded, due to a lack of information. Parts given an “NIQ” designation meet the damage unit guidelines to be classified as an “A” or “B” grade, but are downgraded to a “C” grade because of “negative information or quality.” Mechanical parts grading is based on time of use as measured by kilometres (km) or miles (mi) travelled. Based on ARA standards, a code to indicate the location, type, and units of damage may also be used. Damage types are identified by a letter designation (see Figure 3). Numbers are given to identify the location and

units of damage. The location of damage can be determined by referencing a damage locator diagram. On an ARA damage locator diagram, parts of a vehicle are divided into areas, with each area identified by a number. Using the code 5D2 as an example, the number “5” indicates the location of damage on the part. The letter “D” indicates the type of damage, in this case, a dent. The number “2” indicates the units of damage on the part. For more information on the grading process used by the ARA, go to www.a-r-a.org.

Conclusion Using recycled parts can be a viable option when repairing collision-damaged vehicles. To ensure that recycled parts will not compromise the repair of the vehicle, ensure that the parts are in a usable condition, and have been appropriately cleaned. Additionally, be sure that the parts are appropriate for the vehicle make, model, and year, and with included options. If recycled parts will be used, meeting the considerations and criteria mentioned in this article can help to ensure safe and efficient repairs. B

AkzoNobel on Sustainability

A Sustainability Crash Course By J.D. Ney

e’ve all heard sustainability will be the new environmental mantra over the next few years. With the shift to waterborne paints, Canadian bodyshops have made the first few steps towards the future of a sustainable industry, but many don’t know what to do next, how to get there, or why they should even bother. For that reason, Bodyshop magazine has partnered with AkzoNobel to bring you a series of articles over the next few months that will explore the concept of sustainability, figure out what it means for Canadian shops, collaborate on some real-life industry strategies, and show how your business can benefit and grow through smart, efficient, and sustainable business strategies. Consider these pages your Sustainability Crash Course.

Sustainability 101 To give us an overview of what sustainability means, we turn to Mike Shesterkin, manager, Sustainability and BPI Car Refinishes, Americas for AkzoNobel. Shesterkin offers-up a definition of sustainability that’s well known among its practitioners; it comes from Gro Harlem Brundtland. In 1987, Brundtland was chair of the UN’s World Commission on Environment and Development, and she defined sustainability as: “Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” Moving forward, Shesterkin focuses his working language a little more, with AkzoNobel’s own words. “AkzoNobel defines sustainability as ‘the simultaneous and ethical pursuit of delivering profitable economic growth, lowering our environmental footprint and developing the talent of our people.’” More interesting from a shop’s perspective, though, is not so much the what

Mike Shesterkin, manager, Sustainability and BPI Car Refinishes, Americas for AkzoNobel.

as the why and how. After hearing these definitions, questions like, “Why should I pay attention to this?”, “Why is it important for my business?”, or “How do I start?” immediately come to mind. Fortunately, Shesterkin says AkzoNobel is here to help. “Our goal is to become the company that shops think about first and foremost when it comes to sustainability,” he says. “We think we have something to offer here”. Shesterkin notes that the company is primed to launch a full suite of tools specifically designed with the collision industry in mind. “One thing we’re working on, and plan to roll out by the end of this summer, is a sustainability scan,” he says. “It’s a tool

that owners or managers can use to score their current operation in terms of its sustainability. It gives people a benchmark of where they stand, and then we can provide ideas and solutions that can be easily implemented to move that needle towards a greater commitment to sustainable business practices. What we see is collaboration with our customers to ideate ways to lead the industry and think of long-term operational strategies together. And,” he adds, “that’s not even saying anything about new product development, which we’re constantly engaged in.” Shesterkin notes that many of the initial strategies for working towards a more sustainable business are quick, easy, and cheap fixes, music to the ears of Canadian owners who have just invested heavily in waterborne-compatible equipment. “Sure, there are some challenges to sustainability if you’re not used to the processes, but I also think a lot of folks believe that being green is a costly thing,” he says. “That isn’t the case. There are quick and cheap efficiency and waste-reduction improvements that can be made right away. Basically, there is a whole lot of lowhanging fruit, so it’s very achievable.” In the end, according to Shesterkin, his involvement in the sustainability of the collision repair business is simply an extension of a company principle: “Our customer’s future first.” “At AkzoNobel, we work with our customers to provide the tools they need to succeed,” he says. “When it comes to the future of the collision business, sustainability will play a big role, and we think we’re uniquely positioned to help our customers stay ahead of the curve.” To keep ahead of that curve, be sure to check this space in our next issue, as we continue to tackle the issue of sustainability and how it ultimately leads to your profitability www.bodyshopbiz.com l April 2010 l Bodyshop 27

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)OXRUHVFHQW '\H 1HZ ,PSDFW :UHQFK Snap-onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new 3/8â&#x20AC;? Micro Cordless Impact Wrench (CT561) provides power and speed in a small package, delivering up to 50 ft.lbs. of max torque output while delivering 2500 RPM and 3,000 blows per minute to get the job done quicker. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The wrench weighs only 1.8 lbs, so positioning the tool is easy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal for a variety of restricted-access applications under the hood, in the cabin, or under the vehicle, because it fits into places that other cordless impact wrenches canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t,â&#x20AC;? says Rodger Isetts, product manager for Snap-on. The Micro Cordless Impact Wrench has an oversized forward/ reverse toggle-style trigger that allows technicians to operate the wrench with one hand, meaning less finger stress and strain. An integrated soft grip handle provides positive tool control for less fatigue. The glass-filled nylon housing delivers durable high impact strength for longer tool life. The removable 7.2 volt battery charges quickly to eliminate downtime. It uses the same battery and charger as the popular CTS561 series of cordless screwdrivers and the CTLED566 cordless LED flashlight. Snap-On 877-SNAPON-2 (877-762-7662) www.snapon.com

Tracer Products has developed a state-of-the-art fluorescent dyeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;TP-3405CS Dye-Lite All-In-One dyeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which greatly improves leak detection in all oil and oil-based fluid systems, including gasoline and diesel engine oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, automatic transmission fluid, and power steering fluid, as well as hydraulic and lubrication fluids. This dye has proven to be 100% effective with all UV and blue light lamps. TP-3405CS Dye-Lite All-In-One dye assures optimum leak detection because it actually contains two fluorescent dyes: one fluoresces best under UV and the other under blue light. Whatever type of inspection lamp is used, All-In-One dye will glow brilliantly and spotlight every leakâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even a pinholeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in a system. Dye-Lite All-In-One dye is safe and easy to use. Just one bottle of dye per application is all you need. The dye is circulated through the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fluid system, and will escape with the host fluid through the tiniest leak. When the system is scanned with a highintensity Tracerline UV lamp, the dye will glow brightly, spotlighting the exact location of every leak. All-In-One is available in standard and concentrated formulas. Tracer Products 1-800-641-1133 www.tracerline.com

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Mohawk now offers swing arm lifting pads that attach to the swing arm and not just the slider. These lifting pads give access to lifting points on a new range of vehicles, are available with steel or rubber tops, and are ALI/ETL certified to meet the one and only ANSI/OSHA nationally recognized safety standard. Mohawk two-post side-by-side lifts are available in capacities of 7,000 to 30,000 lbs. Mohawk Lifts 800-833-2006 www.mohawklifts.com

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Innovative net sanding products for exceptional surface finishing. Mirkaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family of net products include discs, sheets and rolls. X X X N J SL B DP N

28 %RG\VKRS l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

CCIF Skills

19,20

www.ccifskillsprogram.com

Collision Solution Network

www.csninc.ca

Comairco

www.comairco.ca

DuPont Performance coatings

5,15

www.cromax.dupont.com

Filco Termomeccanica North America

www.filcoinc.com

H&S Auto Shot

www.hsautoshot.com

Lord Fusor

www.lord.com

Maaco

www.maaco.ca

Mirka

www.mirka.com

Pioneer Steel

www.pioneersteel.ca

PPG Candada

www.ppgrefinish.com

Rondex Limited

www.rondex.ca

Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes 32

www.sherwin-automotive.com

Stewardship Ontario

www.stewardshipontario.ca

Automotive Internet Directory

Visit these companies directly at their web addresses or check out the growing list of Hot Links at www.autoserviceworld.com. To find out how your organization can be included in this directory and on the web, contact aross@jobbernews.com

REFRIGERANT

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

Duracool Refrigerants Inc. www.duracool.com Nationally Distributed by: Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc. The Leaders in Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Technology Guaranteed In writing not to harm any Mobile A/C System You can feel the Difference that Quality Makes “Our Formula Never Changes”.

Goodyear Engineered Products www.goodyearep.com/aftermarket www.goodyearbeltsandhose.com The officially licensed belt of NASCAR. Gatorback, the quiet belt. You can never replace Goodyear quality. NGK Spark Plugs Canada Limited www.ngksparkplugs.ca The World Leader in Spark Plugs, Oxygen Sensors and Ignition Wire Sets. Used by 87% of the World’s OE Manufacturers

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

The E.R.I. Group www.theerigroup.com Canada’s Premier Machine Shop Buying Group

Kerr Machine Shop Group Inc.

AIR LIQUIDE CANADA INC. www.airliquide.ca Your one-stop shop for all your industrial gases and welding supplies.

S.B International Inc. www.sbintl.com “We keep engines humming”

www.kerrmachineshopgroup.com Buying group for machine shops and performance shops.

WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTORS & BUYING GROUPS

HAND CLEANERS

Bestbuy Distributors Limited

GOJO Industries, Inc. www.automotive.gojo.com GOJO is a leading manufacturer of skin care products and services for many marketing including automotive and manufacturing. GOJO continues to pursue a commitment of creating well-being through hand hygiene and healthy skin.

WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTORS & BUYING GROUPS

www.bestbuyautoparts.ca Independent buying group and warehouse distributor that allocates its profits to member shareholders and provides unbeatable value for independent jobbers.

%RG\VKRS CANADA’S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

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In Toronto area, please phone (416) 510-6829 • Others 1-800-268-7742 • U.S.A. 1-800-387-0273

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www.bodyshopbiz.com l April 2010 l %RG\VKRS 29

from the publisher

WALKING AWAY Nobody with a heart can argue that the consistent decline in personal injuries and fatalities from vehicle collisions is anything but good news. The most recent information out of the U.S. regulators pegged the drop in fatalities to the lowest in more than half a century. And furthermore, when held up against the significant rise in miles driven, the fatality rate is even more astoundingly small: 1.16 per 100 million vehicle miles travelled (VMT). This is truly an incredibly small number. In Canada we have seen a similar drop. Most strikingly, fatalities from crashes dropped by a third from 1987 to 2006, the most recent number available, while serious injuries dropped by nearly half. In a nutshell, people are being killed and injured less often, and less severely when they do crash, which they’re also doing less of. Regulators are quick to point out the impact of programs designed to curb impaired driving and bolster seatbelt use—a much bigger problem in the U.S. than in Canada—but it is an inescapable fact that the technology of the cars we travel in has immensely improved our chances of walking away from a crash unscathed (or nearly so). Years ago I studied similar stats regarding a different kind of crash: those occurring in motorsport. I know there are a lot of F1 fans within the trade; I attended my first Canadian F1 GP in 1967. Racing in those early days was very dangerous stuff. Between 1963 and 1967, there were a mere 50 F1 Grand Prix events. There were 47 accidents in all, less than one a race, but these resulted in two injuries and three driver fatalities. That is an astoundingly bad ratio by today’s standards, where we have become accustomed to drivers walking away unhurt from some of the most violent crashes we can imagine. It was this reality that prompted people like Jackie Stewart, still racing at the time, to be among the first few to push for greater safety. Their efforts were not in vain. In contrast to the 1963 to 1967 time period, fatalities declined even as the number of races and accidents both increased. In the 80 Grand Prix events held from 1988 to 1992, there were 305 accidents, and only one injury. There were no fatalities. If one were to apply the mid-’60s accident-to-fatality ratio to this number of accidents, there would have been 20 drivers killed, nearly an entire grid. Certainly many of the advances were made to the cars and to the circuits to achieve this change. It is also true that motorsport can never be entirely safe, but the unlucky few would have had a great deal more company had not changes been instituted. Many of those safety advancements have found their way into today’s cars—which is one reason we find ourselves where we are today. For the collision repair industry, the declining accident statistics do not necessarily mean that it is a declining industry in dollar terms, of course. What it does mean is that it is an industry facing change. We will see the change at the light and heavy damage ends of the crash spectrum. Fast repairs are already being redefined to single-digit hours, while heavy damage requires an in-depth understanding of what can be fixed and how, and what can’t without compromising post-repair safety. The imperative for this industry has to be to allow the driver and passengers to walk away from the next accident, too. Making sure that happens is no accident. B Andrew Ross aross@bodyshopbiz.com

30 Bodyshop l April 2010 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

feeling isolated?

Connect with the leading group of experienced collision repair professionals. CSN Collision & Glass offers national presence while maintaining community independence. Our foundation is built on years of providing the highest quality repairs and exceptional customer care. We are DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE.

Make the RIGHT connection.

For more information visit:

CSNinc.ca Collision Solutions Network 377 Evans Ave, Suite 102 Toronto, ON M8Z 1K8 866 400 4CSN

process

™

Fast Greens With Air-Dry Technology

Since switching to SherwinWilliams’ HP Process and the AWX waterborne basecoat system, we have finally realized the results we want. The HP process used with AWX is lean and green.

— Phil McNaul | Miller’s Collision Services Fort Erie, Ontario

Don’t putt around, it’s actually easy being green – just call 1-800-798-5872.

sherwin-automotive.com

On the golf course, fast greens are hard. In the collision shop, being fast – while being green – is hard, too. So how do you speed up production while doing the right thing when it comes to the environment? With the new HP Process™ from Sherwin-Williams, now you can. Bill Gooder (Left) Paint Technician

Phil McNaul (Right) Collision Services Manager

The HP Process uses proprietary Air-Dry technology to remove the need for baking. It achieves a fast cure time at ambient (70-75°F) room temperatures, allowing for same-day repairs. In fact, its HPC15 Clearcoat can achieve a 15-minute cure that can be sanded, polished and even delivered to the customer. The HP Process not only benefits the environment by reducing a shop’s carbon footprint, but it impacts the bottom line by lowering energy costs and helping paint more cars, faster. The HP Process stands for higher productivity, higher performance, higher profits, a healthy planet – and especially a happy painter.