Your Champion. Your Ally. www.aaspmn.org
CONTENTS Vol. 30 No. 7
AASP-MN News is the official publication of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota, Inc. 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102 Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 Fax: 612-623-1122 email: aasp@aaspmn.org website: aaspmn.org. To keep its readers better informed, AASP-MN News allows its columnists to fully express their opinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP-MN News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. ©2021 All rights reserved. Cover image www.istockphoto.com.
AASP of Minnesota is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving the state’s automotive service industry and the success of its members.
ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE.................................4 Our Values by Loren Feldkamp, AASP-MN Associate Division Director
AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE.....................................................................6 Washington Case Raises Concerns for Repair Shops Across the Country by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist
PRESIDENT Tom Archambault
LOCAL NEWS..................................................................................8
2021 - 2022
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Matt Feehan SECRETARY-TREASURER Jesse Jacobson COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Lee Schlosser MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Jeremy Nordgren ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Loren Feldkamp COLLISION SEAT Travis Doyle MECHANICAL SEATS Mike McLynn Tony Newman
STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judell Anderson, CAE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jodi Pillsbury PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110 PHONE: 973-667-6922 FAX: 973-235-1963 PUBLISHER Thomas Greco | thomas@grecopublishing.com SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli | alicia@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Joel Gausten | joel@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL & CREATIVE COORDINATOR Alana Bonillo | alana@grecopublishing.com OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco | donna@grecopublishing.com PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Joe Greco | joe@grecopublishing.com www.grecopublishing.com
NATIONAL NEWS............................................................................10 INSURANCE I.Q. ..............................................................................11 Workers’ Compensation: Frequently Asked Questions D.E.G. ESTIMATING TIPS .................................................................14 COVER STORY ................................................................................16 The EV Revolution: Exploring the Next Wave of Service and Repair - Part Three by Joel Gausten COMPLETE HEALTH , ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.) .....................................................................................18 The Hierarchy of Controls by Janet L. Keyes, CIH and Carol A. Keyes, CSP CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS! .........................................22 Assure Business Success by Hiring the Right People! AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFITS ........................................................22 UPCOMING EVENTS
September 28, 29, 30 Race for Automotive Education ProKart Indoor Racing Burnsville ADVERTISERS’ INDEX AAA Auto Parts...................................................4 A-Con Recycling..................................................8 Aramark..................................................................17 C.H.E.S.S..................................................................19 Dentsmart..............................................................21 Inver Grove Honda/Inver Grove Toyota......14 Jack McClard.........................................................7 Keystone................................................................11 Maplewood Toyota.............................................20 Mopar Group ........................................................20
AASP-MN News
Morrie’s ..................................................................6 MPA..........................................................................IBC Proven Force.......................................................OBC Reliable Automotive Equipment...................12-13 Rosedale Chevrolet.............................................17 Sherwin Williams..................................................IFC Spanesi....................................................................15 Straight & Square.................................................5 Toyota Group.......................................................7
July 2021 | 3
ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
Our Values By Loren Feldkamp AASP-MN Associate Division Director
Thank you to all AASP-MN members and guests who attended the AASP-MN Leadership Conference at Nicollet Island Pavilion on May 20. We enjoyed seeing everyone there that day.
On May 19, the AASP-MN Board of Directors, along with Judell and Jodi, participated in a leadership strategic session facilitated by conference keynote speaker Sam Silverstein. Sam encouraged and coached us to
consider and develop descriptions of our Alliance values, based on our association’s mission and beliefs. The Board and the leadership team worked hard to develop and describe our values. Judell exhibited her usual outstanding leadership skills by tweaking and enhancing some of the descriptions, as did Sam Silverstein. Our final product is listed below. These values have been documented and will be shared over the coming years with membership and leadership. Please review so that you are familiar with our values and contact any of our Board members or leadership team with any comments or questions. Appreciation: Each member is important. We value members’ time, commitment and contributions – whether large or small – for the benefit of all. Collaboration: We work with one another for the betterment of the automotive industry, recognizing that our collective ideas and experiences are stronger than any one individual’s. Commitment: We believe in our mission. We stand with and support the industry and our members by providing resources to help them achieve their goals and long-term sustainability. Connection: We come together around a common purpose while welcoming and accepting different viewpoints. We value everyone for who they are and what they bring to the organization. Focus: We prioritize our work. We do not allow daily distractions and short-term challenges to take our vision away from our objectives and longterm goals. Integrity: We do the right thing for the right reason. We are respectful, honest and transparent and can be counted on to do what we say we are going to do. Professionalism: We strive for continued on pg. 21
4 | July 2021
AASP-MN News
AASP-MN News
July 2021 | 5
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist
Washington Case Raises Concerns for Repair Shops Across the Country
AASP-MN staff periodically comes across legal cases that are relevant to the operation of member repair shops. Just recently, Judell asked us to review and comment on a case from the State of Washington which involved the failure of a franchisee of a national auto repair chain to properly inspect a vehicle which was later involved in a serious accident. In this instance, the failure to act on the part of the franchisee resulted in the franchisor being deemed liable for the negligence of its franchisee. In our initial analysis of the case, we thought that this was a pretty straightforward negligence case. The franchisee failed to properly inspect and warn the customer of a tire in need of replacement. The tire failed. The vehicle rolled. The driver and passenger sustained serious injury and the national company – the franchisor – was brought into the case under the Doctrine of Respondeat Superior. The Doctrine of Respondeat Superior makes an employer or principal liable for the wrong of an employee
6 | July 2021
or agent if the wrong was committed within the scope of employment or agency. While this analysis is helpful, your AASP-MN staff asked us to dig deeper to provide advice regarding the responsibility among repair shops – especially for those of you who operate multiple sites. We were also asked to consider what liability arises as a result of vehicle inspections that you provide to customers as part of your service plan. Just as the national franchisor in the Washington case was held responsible for the negligent inspection by a franchisee shop, the parent company of an organization with multiple locations will not be able to isolate itself from the negligent acts or failure to act of an individual shop. Additionally, once an inspection program is established, a repair shop must carefully train staff who have vehicle inspection responsibilities to ensure that they are providing the service a customer might reasonably expect to receive based on representations by the company. continued on pg. 21
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July 2021 | 7
LOCAL NEWS AASP-MN Defines Its Values On the day before the Leadership Conference in May, your AASP-MN Board and staff spent the afternoon with conference keynote speaker, Sam Silverstein, to identify the core values of the association. Silverstein explained that the association’s mission defines its purpose – why we exist – while its values define how we will work towards that mission. The organization’s culture is also defined through its values. After sharing this foundational knowledge, Sam guided the group through an exercise to help us identify and define the values of the Alliance. Here is the result of that work: Appreciation: Each member is important. We value members’ time, commitment and contributions – whether large or small – for the benefit of all. Collaboration: We work with one another for the betterment of the automotive industry, recognizing that our collective ideas and experiences are stronger than any one individual’s. Commitment: We believe in our mission. We stand with and support the industry and our members by providing resources to help them achieve their goals and long-term sustainability. Connection: We come together around a common purpose while welcoming and accepting different viewpoints. We value everyone for who they are and what they bring to the organization. Focus: We prioritize our work. We do not allow daily distractions and shortterm challenges to take our vision away from our objectives and long-term goals. Integrity: We do the right thing for the right reason. We are respectful, honest
and transparent and can be counted on to do what we say we are going to do. Professionalism: We strive for excellence in all that we do. We apply best practices, meet high standards and take pride in our work. We hope these values resonate as much with you as they do with us! Along with our mission statement, these core values will be utilized to guide all that we do, including decision making and strategic planning. If you have any questions or thoughts to share, please feel free to contact the office at (612) 623-1110 or aasp@aaspmn.org. Attention AASP-MN Members! Complete Your Member Profile The AASP-MN website was designed to help you seek out other AASP-MN members when looking for services, tools/equipment or general advice and has search capabilities to facilitate those connections. However, in order for the search results to include information about your shop, you must complete your member profile on the website. To do that, go to aaspmn.org and click on the “Members Only” button in the upper right corner. You will be prompted for a username and password. (If you don’t know this information, contact the AASP-MN office.) Once you are logged into the site, click on “Members Only” on the navigation bar. A drop-down menu will appear. The first option on that menu is “My Profile.” Click on the “My Profile” option to update your company profile. Once you’ve completed your profile, hit the save button at the bottom of the page. Please take the time to check
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out all of the great information and resources on the AASP-MN website, including: Information about: • Association news • Member benefit programs • The Get to Know Your Neighborhood Auto Repair Pro campaign • Current and past legislative activities and find your legislators • Industry training and upcoming events Member shops, tools and equipment: • Search our database to find a member shop in your area, see what diagnostic or other equipment they own, what repair information they subscribe to, which management system they use and more! Our extensive database was designed to help members connect with – and be a resource to – other members. So, be sure to login and complete your member profile! Resources/links: • Regulation of Claims Practices & Prohibition on Insurers Statutes • Truth in Repairs Act • Insurer Unfair Claims Practices Report • MN Motor Vehicle Damage Disclosure & Reporting Requirements • P-Pages, DEG & other estimating resources • OEM service information • MPCA Fact Sheets and other regulatory compliance information Sample documents: • Complaint Letter to Department of Commerce
Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) MNCARS is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by AASP-MN. Its sole purpose is to promote careers in the automotive industry, recruit young people into the state's college-level automotive service and collision repair programs and, ultimately, into industry workplaces.
Take advantage of the resources in the MotorMouth toolbox at https://carcareers.org/motor-mouth/. Get out and get active in your local community promoting industry careers!
AASP-MN News
• • • • •
Loaner Car Agreement Repair Authorization form Notice of Hazardous Defects Assignment of Insurance Proceeds Sheriff’s sale instructions and documents
Consumer info: • Find a Member Shop • Choosing a Repair Shop • Warranty Information • About Service Contracts • After an Accident • Treated unfairly by an insurance company? • Vehicle Maintenance • Safety Information Other: • Automotive career and scholarship info • AASP-MN News Magazine – Check out the current or past issues of the association’s monthly magazine, AASP-MN News. And, much more! 26th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing Highlights 122 golfers and 21 sponsoring companies enjoyed a beautiful day while golfing and socializing at the 26th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing at Majestic Oaks Golf Club in Ham Lake on Wednesday, June 16. The competition was fierce, but the teamwork of the following golfers earned them the First place trophy with a score of 59. (13 under par). They were: • Joel Benolken, Fix Auto • Gavin Olson, Only One Auto Glass • Derek McCoy, Farmers Insurance • Matt Akin
Getting ready to hit the course.
Executive Director Judell Anderson and President Tom Archambault selling "Split the Pot" raffle tickets.
The Fairway Collision/Bill’s Auto Body team (L to R: John Ritter, Troy Heir, Wayde Houle & Steve Hall)
Thank You Year-Long Sponsors The following companies have made sponsorship commitments for AASP-MN’s educational programming and other activities in 2021:
Platinum Fix Auto LKQ-Minnesota Lube-Tech & Partners
First place team (L to R): Gavin Olson, Joel Benolken, Derek McCoy. Not shown: Matt Akin.
Gold AASP National Auto Value Parts Stores/APH Axalta Coating Systems CBIZ AiA FinishMaster Podium PPG Automotive Finishes United Fire Group Silver aaa Auto Parts AmeriPride Services Colonial Life Enterprise Rent-A-Car O’Reilly Auto Parts PAM’s Auto, Inc. Sherwin Williams Single Source/National Coatings Suburban Chevrolet
The Second place team came in at 12 under par. They were: • Chad Bijou, Waconia 1 Collision • Chris Beckwith, Waconia 1 Collision • Dillon Koncan, Credit Acceptance • Steve Willey, Enterprise Rent-A-Car In addition, AASP-MN conducted a split the pot raffle which raised $1,020 to support MNCARS and its initiative to get students into Minnesota’s automotive technical programs.
Bronze C.H.E.S.S. Twin Cities Auto Glass Second place team (L to R): Chris Beckwith, Chad Bijou, Steve Willey, Dillon Koncan.
AASP-MN News
July 2021 | 9
NATIONAL NEWS
might cost and where to buy products or have repairs performed.
www.langmarketing.com Digital Natives Are Reshaping the Aftermarket Digital Natives (Americans born during the age of digital technology) differ significantly from earlier generations of Americans in terms of how they seek information and make decisions concerning vehicle repair. Born after 1980, Digital Natives span the Y (millennials) and Z generations. They differ significantly in key aftermarket attitudes from Baby Boomers and Generation Xers, who are Digital Immigrants born between 1946 and 1980. Digital Natives and Digital Immigrants While Digital Natives have grown up with personal computers, the internet and all the other trappings of the digital age, Digital Immigrants have had to acquire digital knowledge after their formative years. Digital Natives are much more inclined than Digital Immigrants to use the internet to make buying decisions. Digital Immigrants, in contrast, generally are more comfortable with face-to-face, in-store relationships and using the telephone to acquire product and purchase information. Aftermarket Impact Digital Natives and Digital Immigrants differ in three major ways that affect their aftermarket behavior: use of the internet as the primary source of aftermarket information, preference for online transactions as opposed to face-toface purchases and the growth of platform buying. The internet is usually the first stop for Digital Natives to discover what is wrong with their vehicles, the cost of repairs, where to purchase parts (Do-It-Yourselfers) and how to install them, or where to have repairs performed (DIFM). Digital Immigrants (particularly Baby Boomers) are much more likely than Digital Natives to seek vehicle information directly from a repair outlet or parts store, through direct contact or by telephone. In-Store Shopping versus Quick-to-Buy (Online) While Digital Immigrants often see distinct differences between in-store shopping and Quick-to-Purchase (online) buying, the difference between these two experiences is less likely to exist among Digital Natives. Digital Natives often perceive little difference between Quick-to-Purchase (online) buying and in-store buying. The other advantages offered by in-store buying tend to not offset the advantages of the Quick-to-Purchase experience for Digital Natives, which include speed of transaction, variety of purchase alternatives and (in many cases) lower prices. In a similar fashion, Digital Natives are much less likely than Digital Immigrants to see an advantage in dealing face to face with parts stores or repair shops when making decisions about what is wrong with the vehicle, what repairs
10 | July 2021
Shift to Platform Buying Platform buying is a hot-button for millennials with its speed of use, wide range of buying opportunities, generally lower prices and one-stop shopping. In searching for vehicle service, electronic platforms provide consumers with access to many different repair outlets and parts choices, which, in turn, can provide different pricing and other consumer benefits. Some platforms are specific to vehicle repair (e.g., Openbay, RepairPal, etc.), and other platforms such as Amazon offer access to a wide array of products and services. Amazon as an Aftermarket Platform and Search Engine Millennials love and trust Amazon. It has become a powerful search engine that provides buyers with a wide array of automotive products and a growing selection of automotive repairs. Amazon, as an aftermarket electronic platform, can provide a level of trust for consumers that they likely could not individually develop with specific repair outlets or parts outlets from which they might make an aftermarket purchase. o2o Growth The growth of online-to-offline purchases (o2o) reflects the increased use by consumers of the internet, especially platforms, to make a wide range of buying decisions. It is inevitable that Digital Natives, driven by their values and purchase preferences, will continue to increase their use of digital platforms (such as Amazon) to research and purchase vehicle parts and services in the future. Six Major Takeaways: • Digital Natives span two generations born after 1980 (Generations Y and Z). Digital Immigrants and Digital Natives differ from each other in three major ways that affect their aftermarket behavior. • Platform buying has become a hot-button for millennials by offering speed of use, a wide range of buying opportunities, generally lower prices and onestop shopping. • Millennials are in love with Amazon. They trust it as a transaction platform, and they also appreciate the wide variety of purchase options Amazon provides. • Platforms, especially Amazon, have become search engines, offering buyers a wide selection of products and services. • Amazon, as an electronic platform, can provide consumers with a level of trust that they likely could not establish individually with specific repair outlets or parts outlets from which they might make an aftermarket purchase. • The growth of online-to-offline purchases (o2o) reflects the consumers’ increased use of platforms to make a wide range of buying decisions. See the soon-to-becontinued on pg. 21
AASP-MN News
INSURANCE I.Q.
Workers' Compensation: Frequently Asked Questions What benefits are available under workers’ compensation? Workers’ compensation benefits are available to employees who are unable to work because of a workrelated injury or illness. The injured employee will be indemnified for lost wages as a result of the work-related injury if he or she is not medically authorized to work. Typically, lost time benefits are a percentage of the injured employee’s pre-injury wage. In addition to all medical expenses related to the treatment, rehabilitation is also typically covered. What is a waiting period? In Minnesota, the workers’ compensation waiting period starts on the first day of any lost time and is three calendar-days long. Wage-loss benefits for an injured worker are not paid for the waiting period unless the disability continues for 10 calendar-days or longer. What is the disability date for occupational disease? The date of injury is set by the first time an employee loses time due to the injury or disability. This time may be paid or unpaid.
What is an IME? An independent medical exam (IME) is a medical exam of the injured worker by a medical professional other than the treating doctor who conducted the original examination of the injured worker. An insurance company or employer is entitled to an IME to challenge the treating physician’s diagnosis, the recommended treatment plan or whether the injury is work related. What happens if parties have a dispute that cannot be resolved? Workers, employers and insurance carriers may file an application for hearings to resolve disputes. Employees file most hearing applications. The application notifies the state of the dispute and initiates the legal process. Legal disputes can be settled by stipulation, arbitration and proceeding with a formal hearing. For more information on workers’ compensation benefits, please contact Brad Schmid at (763) 549-2247.
AASP-MN News
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July 2021 | 11
ESTIMATING TIPS CCC/MOTOR: Guide to Estimating 2020/2021 Revision – DEG users can now find an updated version of the MOTOR Guide to Estimating (GTE) in a downloadable PDF document link in the “Estimate Toolbox.” All changes in the current GTE document are marked in blue text. DEG users can find this document by visiting degweb.org > Click on “ESTIMATE TOOLBOX” in the navigation bar and click on “CCC.” Users can select either of the updated 2020 links for MOTOR GTE and RACED GTE (Recycled Assemblies). Both links can be viewed and saved as a PDF. For the most up-to-date Guide to Estimating, CCC has a LIVE version available that’s easy to navigate and has a search function. Mitchell: Seam Sealer on Welded Panels – Not all estimating platforms handle seam sealer on welded-replaced panels the same. Mitchell addresses its unique approach in the MITCHELL CEG “Procedure Explanations” for the specific panel you are replacing. The following example is shown for a truck bed “Side Panel R&R.” Pickup Bed, Side Panel R&R includes to remove caulking/ seam sealer and replace caulking/seam sealer to obtain water sealing properties. Pickup Bed, Side Panel R&R does NOT INCLUDE labor for “Apply caulking/seam sealer for additional sound deadening and/or to replicate original factory appearance, texture or color.” Materials are NEVER included in published labor times.
All Three Systems: Cleaning of Spilled Fluids – Cleaning of spilled fluids in the repair facility and the vehicle due to accident damage is NOT INCLUDED in all three estimating systems. Mitchell response DEG Inquiry 18351 “Thank you for your inquiry, cleaning spilled or leaked fluids caused by an impact has not been factored into the labor allowance.” CCC/MOTOR response DEG Inquiry 18350 “Clean-up of fluids leaked on the vehicle or the workspace caused by a collision is not included.” Audatex response DEG Inquiry 18349 “Because each vehicle´s collision damage is unique, Audatex labor values do not include time to clean spilled or leaked fluids.” CCC/MOTOR: Glass Run Channel Not included with Door Skin R&R – Two recent DEG inquiries, 18493 & 18494, identified that the labor associated with the door glass run channel(s) is NOT included in the door skin or door outer panel replacement. “MOTOR feedback: The run channel is NOT included with the outer panel. Items not listed as included are considered not included unless otherwise listed in a footnote.” Unless identified in the footnotes, DEG users are encouraged to submit inquiries for database corrections if door glass run channels are inaccurately identified as included without a footnote.
Note: The estimating databases are all intended to be used as a GUIDE ONLY - it is important to remember that the auto body professional performing the repair is in a position to thoroughly inspect, diagnose and identify the methodology and their unique cost of the vehicle damage repair. You can view these tips and others on the DEG website, DEGWEB.ORG.
14 | July 2021
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July 2021 | 15
COVER STORY
by Joel Gausten
THE EV REVOLUTION:
EXPLORING THE NEXT WAVE OF SERVICE AND REPAIR - PART THREE The previous two parts in this series explored the growing reality of electric vehicles (EVs) and views from the industry on their development and potential impact on the industry. Of course, the automotive community’s ability to repair and/or service these advanced vehicles will only be as strong as the training that facilities and technicians receive. This month, we present some avenues that collision repair and mechanical service professionals can take to learn more. With EVs becoming a growing interest and concern, I-CAR has stepped up to provide education and resources aimed to bring technicians up to speed. Below is a small sampling of the I-CAR EV-related courses currently available, with some developed and launched within the last handful of months: Hybrid Vehicle Identification & Damage Analysis This course explains the different types and parts of hybrid and electric vehicles. Hybrid vehicle identification and important safety procedures when inspecting electrified vehicles, including steps to disable a hybrid system and an overview of the cooling systems for a high-voltage battery, are also covered. Introduction to Electric Vehicles This course introduces the different types of EVs on the road today and identifies the unique parts of an EV and the purpose of those parts. Video is also included to highlight the steps for operating an EV for the first time. Understanding High Voltage Safety This is a course that explains the elements of electricity and the relationship between voltage, current and resistance with high-voltage systems. This course describes the effects of electricity on the body and lists the required PPE when working around high voltage. Electric Vehicle (EV) Initial Inspection & Handling This course discusses initial inspection and safety considerations for EVs upon arrival at a repair facility. Precautions and considerations for high-voltage batteries and systems and vehicle staging/handling of damaged vehicles are also covered. Electric Vehicle (EV) Damage Analysis This course reviews necessary safety precautions when working with EVs. It provides detail on an EV’s high-voltage components, safety precautions and relevant non-high-voltage parts.
Responding to the need for training in the EV arena, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has developed a Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist (L3) test designed to measure a technician’s knowledge of the skills needed to diagnose both high- and lowvoltage electrical/electronic problems (as well as other supporting system issues) on hybrid/electric vehicles. It is an extension of ASE’s Automobile Electrical/ Electronic Systems (A6) and Engine Performance (A8) tests and is available to students who have passed both the Automobile Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6) and Engine Performance (A8) tests. With COVID-19 restrictions finally lifting, industry members interested in exploring EVs will soon have an opportunity to hit the road for this information – and all roads are leading to Las Vegas. Held November 2-4 at the Sands Expo Center & Caesars Forum, the 2021 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) will feature EV training opportunities via “Hybrid & EV High Voltage Systems” (presented by Guy Vesco at NAPA Autotech) on November 3 and “Selling and Servicing Hybrids & Battery Electric Vehicles” (presented by Rich Cregar of Automotive Training Authority (ATA) on November 4. This November will also see the return of the SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), this year’s OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit is designed to influence attendees with content from innovators in automotive structural design and technology. This highly recommended event will feature distinctly different topics and discussions by companies and individuals with rich histories of producing sophisticated advancements in the automotive and collision repair fields. Not surprisingly, a special EV-related session for the Summit was being planned at press time. Although it may be some time before EVs become the predominant form of transportation in Minnesota and beyond, AASP-MN shops would do well to stay ahead of the trend by pursuing as many training and educational opportunities as they possibly can. In an industry of constant change, forewarned is always forearmed. Links: I-CAR: i-car.com ASE: ase.com AAPEX: aapexshow.com SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education: rde.scrs.com
16 | July 2021
AASP-MN News
WHAT'S WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE?
1) The power cube (the green thing) isn’t listed for workplace use because it lacks overcurrent protection. 2) The device plugged into that is an outlet tester. If the outlet was correctly wired, the yellow and white lights would be lit up. But this has an open ground (probably because the extension cord is missing its grounding pin). We carry a large inventory of Medium Duty truck parts.
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AASP-MN News
July 2021 | 17
COMPLETE HEALTH , ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.)
The Hierarchy of Controls by Janet L. Keyes, CIH and Carol A. Keyes, CSP
If you could eliminate a hazard,
dark space under cars or they will use
the person using it. And it only protects
would you do it? The expected answer
jacks. Are those safer? I don’t think so.
if it is used correctly. It often is the most
is, “Of course I would!” But the real
We won’t ask you to eliminate all
cumbersome to use. And, the most
answer is, “It depends.” You weigh
hazards. That’s futile. A more practical
the trade-offs. Get rid of all flammable
approach is to use the hierarchy of
paint, and you eliminate the hazard of
controls. Eliminate the hazard if you
people doing noisy tasks are using
paint vapors starting a fire. Eliminate
can. Substitute – use something similar
hearing protection? If you think they
vehicle lifts, and you eliminate the risk
but safer. Use engineering controls
don’t need hearing protection, go
of a car falling off a lift. But you can’t
to separate people from the hazard.
talk to them. Do they need to stop
refinish cars if you can’t paint, and
Change the way work is done – use
what they’re doing to converse? If so,
nonflammable clearcoats are hard to
administrative controls. And if none of
hearing protection was needed. Why
find. Getting rid of vehicle lifts certainly
those will do the job, resort to requiring
aren’t they using it? It’s uncomfortable.
eliminates one potential hazard, but it
personal protective equipment.
It’s too hot. It’s too inconvenient.
replaces it with others. If employees AASP0720_CHESS.qxp_Layout 1 6/18/20 1:13 PM Page 1
Why is personal protective
difficult to enforce. Walk into your shop. How many
It didn’t seem that loud. See the
need to work under vehicles, they
equipment the last choice? It’s the least
problems with relying on personal
either will try to work in that cramped,
effective. It only protects one person,
protective equipment? Administrative controls are
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considered more effective than requiring personal protective equipment. How could you use that to control noise exposure? You could try to limit how long people spend at the noisiest tasks. That’s not very practical. But there are tasks and times when administrative controls are very effective. Frequent breaks or reducing production expectations during hot weather is an administrative control.
An AWAIR program by July 2020*
Annual Right to Know / Hazard Communication Training
A COVID-19 Prevention Plan by July 2020**
Where is your air compressor? Is it in a corner of the main shop? Or does it have its own sound-insulated room? If the latter, you’ve applied a very effective engineering control.
*By July 2020, automotive repair facilities must have A Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction (AWAIR) program **Essential businesses must have a written COVID-19 Prevention Plan
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Choosing quieter tools that have noise control built into them is an engineering control. Dust extraction systems used for sanding and buffing are engineering controls. Spray booths reduce fire hazards and can reduce employee exposure to paints – they count as engineering controls.
If you can
the dust. As long
substitute a less
as the cabinet
hazardous chemical
is maintained in
or a less hazardous
good condition (an
way of doing a task,
administrative control!)
you reduce the risk to
and used with a dust
employees. Using a vehicle
collection system, your
lift is a good substitute for
employee can blast away
relying on jacks and jack stands
without eye protection, without
and chocking wheels. The lift must
respiratory protection and without
be in good condition, have working
fear of being overexposed.
safety latches and be used correctly.
If you want to keep doing a lot of
Given that, it is less likely to drop a
blasting, you could switch to wet blasting,
car onto an employee’s head than some
using pressurized water, with or without
poorly placed hydraulic jacks. Changing to
blasting media mixed in. The water isn’t
waterborne base coats is another example of
enough to create puddles, but it is effective at
substitution. The waterborne paints are not free
keeping dust levels down.
from hazards, but they greatly reduce the fire and
You could substitute a different blasting media
health risks.
than silica sand or coal slag. This is one of the easiest
Elimination is the most effective control measure, but
control measures to implement. Silica sand and coal slag
the hardest one to do. Do you need to use that chemical at
are the cheapest abrasives, but unless you’re doing a lot of
all? Can you stop doing that task?
blasting, the cost difference is insignificant - and a lot less
Do you have a sandblaster in your shop? How can we use the hierarchy of controls with that?
than the cost of lung damage. Maybe you can eliminate blasting altogether. Grinding
You could use personal protective equipment to
off rust has its own hazards, but it isn’t as noisy as blasting
protect against the noise, the very high dust levels and the
and doesn’t create the same lung hazard. Many shops have
particulates flying around. The only type of protection OSHA
figured out how to avoid this task completely.
allows for abrasive blasting is a type CE airline respirator – a
Abrasive blasting is just one example of using the
helmet connected to a clean air supply. We’ve never seen
hierarchy of controls. You can probably come up with more.
that type of respirator in auto shops. The hood we often see
Are you using a very corrosive wheel cleaner? Could you
does not provide enough protection against the dust levels.
switch to something that is not as nasty? Can you encourage
You probably limit how much time is spent blasting. That
employees to buy quieter tools? That could reduce the need
can be an effective control – if you aren’t using silica or coal
for hearing protection. Make personal protective equipment
slag (the black products). Coal slag contains a trace amount
your last line of defense when all the others aren’t quite
of beryllium, which can cause a progressive and disabling
enough. Don’t make it your first choice.
lung disease. Dust levels can be so high during blasting that only four minutes of blasting could result in overexposure to beryllium. Less than a minute can cause overexposure to silica. This administrative control may not be the best option. Instead of blasting out in the open, you could change the type of equipment. Cabinet blasters contain and capture
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July 2021 | 19
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AASP-MN News
ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
continued from pg. 4
continued from pg. 6
excellence in all that we do. We apply best practices, meet high standards and take pride in our work. As we now return to “post pandemic” normalcy in our society and our businesses, I wish you all the best in everyday life and business success in future months and years.
The Doctrine of Respondeat Superior applies in the employeremployee relationship just as it did in the franchisor-franchisee relationship in the Washington case. The underlying message is that shops are well advised to carefully monitor and update staff knowledge of vehicle conditions as part of your inspection program. It is also likely that any customer whose vehicle enters your shop for repair might reasonably expect you to notice and inform them of any flaws which could create a safety issue when they take their vehicle back out on the road. This also begs the question of whether repair shops should have customers sign off on a disclaimer verifying that the shop’s repair work was focused on a very specific set of mechanical or collision repairs and that the shop was specifically asked to complete repairs only to the extent requested and authorized by the vehicle owner. We have worked with AASP-MN in the past to prepare such disclaimers. We will be reviewing this issue with individual members in the coming weeks to determine if there is merit for the association to establish some parameters/disclaimers for inspection procedures.
NATIONAL NEWS continued from pg. 10 released 2022 Lang Aftermarket Annual for an analyses of consumer generational differences that are shaping eCommerce, o2o Auto Repair, Mobile Repair and other key aftermarket areas. Auto Parts Store Losses & COVID-19 The total count of Auto Parts Stores has changed over the past 10 years, with dramatic shifts in the mix of Jobbers and Retail Auto Parts Stores. Six Major Takeaways: • Two major types of Auto Parts Stores supply the car and light truck aftermarket: Jobbers and Retail Auto Parts Stores. • The mix of Auto Parts Stores (Jobbers and Retail Auto Parts Stores) has changed dramatically since 2010. • The Jobber population fell by approximately 600 between 2010 and 2019. At the same time, Retail Auto Parts Stores increased their number by more than 1,750. • Despite the decline in Jobber outlets, the number of Auto Parts Stores nationwide (Jobbers and Retail Auto Parts Stores) increased by approximately 1,150 between 2010 and 2019. • COVID-19 prompted the closing last year of over three times more Jobber stores than Retail Auto Parts Stores. This reflected differences in DIFM and DIY business volume and the impact on the respective performances of these two groups of Auto Parts Stores during a year when DIFM and DIY annual sales moved violently in opposite directions. • Lang Marketing projects that Retail Auto Parts Stores will climb to 55 percent of the total Auto Parts Store population by 2022, with Jobbers falling to a 45 percent outlet share.
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CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS!
Assure Business Success by Hiring the Right People! The Alliance’s Auto Employee Assessment System, offered in conjunction with Assessment Associates International (AAI), will help AASP-MN members identify employees that not only have the technical skills for the job, but also good motivation, work habits and people skills. How does it work? • Job candidates complete one of two questionnaires: • Service Advisor/Estimator • Technician - including mechanical, body or painter • Candidates are assessed on motivation, attitude, dependability, initiative and other “soft skills.” • Assessments are completed over the internet, at any time of day or night and results are emailed to the employer within minutes of questionnaire completion. • Scores are presented comparing the candidate to current, successful AASP-MN member employees. • Shops use the information to identify candidates that are a good fit with their work environment. • AASP-MN has validated these assessment tools, demonstrating their accuracy, fairness and legal defensibility.
Why use it? • Enhanced employee effectiveness and fit with your work environment. • More good hires and less turnover. • Immediate results - a better bottom line for your shop. • Objective, valid and defensible hiring tool. • It is affordable! AASP-MN member pricing is 50 percent off retail price and starts as low as $15 per assessment. Here’s how: Contact Nate at Assessment Associates International at (952) 854-6551 or nate@aai-assessment.com.
AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS PROPERTY/LIABILITY AND WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE CBIZ AIA Contact: Brad Schmid 763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com CBIZ AIA and United Fire Group (UFG) have created a program for members that includes a special premium discount, exclusive coverage and potential safety group dividend. CBIZ AIA can present quotes from multiple carriers and, as an added bonus, offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Business Planning Professionals Contact: Dennis Begley 612-308-6577 / dennis@begley-group.com Business Planning Professionals will provide AASPMN members with quotes from multiple carriers for life insurance, health insurance, long-term care and disability insurance. EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY BENEFITS Colonial Life Contact: Deb Ferrao 612-600-4135 / deb.ferrao@coloniallifesales.com or Tracy Bailey 612-801-0139 / tracy.bailey@coloniallifesales.com Dedicated representatives can help members transform their benefit package with competitive rates, value added services at no cost and complimentary legal document preparation service. Colonial Life has the tools and flexibility to create a plan to fit everyone’s needs. UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES Aramark Contact: John Majchrzak 612-670-4034/ majchrzak-john@aramark.com Discounted pricing to members on rental of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Purchases are also discounted. Members receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their business with AmeriPride/Aramark each year. CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Association BankCard Services Contact: Mac Hardin 952-933-2026 / mach@retailfinancialservices.biz Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipment is also available.
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LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick 800-496-6789 Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assessment and consultation (some restrictions apply) with an attorney who specializes in the area of law that is the subject of the call. WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Autoshop Solutions Contact: Tony Mercury 919-267-1731 / tony@autoshopsolutions.com Autoshop Solutions has developed the most cuttingedge marketing platform for AASP members. Really Powerful Marketing (RPM) is an all-in-one program that bundles your website, pay-per-click, search engine optimization, social media, and much more! With five levels of RPM to match your budget, goals, and competition, it’s built to drive your shop forward! REPAIR SHOP PRODUCTS/SERVICES DISCOUNTS CARS COOPERATIVE Contact: Stephenie Sheppard 405-547-4077 / membersupport@cars.coop Members receive discounts on a variety of products and services they use every day! From discounts on paint and rental cars to office supplies and phone services. Over 50 programs available! INFORMATION PROVIDERS Mitchell 1 Contact: Mitchell 1 Representative 888-724-6742 Mitchell 1 offers AASP members special discounts on the Mitchell 1 family of integrated software tools. Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative 800-238-9111 AASP members receive a 15% discount on any Mitchell RepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visit ww.w.mitchell.com/ products-services/collisionrepair-shop-solutions/cloud-estimating for more information. TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE IDENTIFIX 800-288-6220 Members enjoy discounted prices on the industry’s #1 technical information hotline, Direct-Hit.
AASP-MN News
CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services 877-520-2987 Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments. AUTO EMPLOYEE ASSESSMENT Assessment Associates International Contact: Nate Page 952-854-6551 / nate@aai-assessment.com Designed to help facilitate and enhance hiring decisions. AASP-MN members receive 50% off retail price, starting as low as $15 per assessment. BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury 612-623-1110 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discounted rates on printed business forms and calendars. SAFETY COMPLIANCE Complete, Health, Environmental & Safety Services, Inc. Contact: Carol Keyes 651-481-9787 / carkey@chess-safety.com AASP-MN members receive a 20% discount on Safety Data Sheet Management (SDSLinks), Right to Know(RTK)/Hazard Communication program customized for your facility and monthly safety reminders, and other safety, OSHA or environmental assistance. PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Carrie Hobrough 612-436-4620 / chobrough@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll products and services (excluding 401k). BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Members receive a 20% discount on one-on-one sales and management coaching programs (covering financial planning & analysis, strategic marketing, leadership and personnel development) without long-term commitments. Members also receive a 20% discount on monthly sales & management webinars as well as a 20% discount on all 180BIZ advisor training programs.
AASP-MN News
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