August 2014
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CONTENTS Vol. 22 No. 8
AASP 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. All rights reserved. To keep its readers better informed, AASP News allows its columnists to fully express their opinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Cover image, pg. 8: © www.thinkstockphoto.com/ffennema.
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 ..............................6 Aluminum Repair: Are You Ready? by Kevin Martin, AASP-MN Associate Division Director
AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS 2014 - 2015
LOCAL NEWS ....................................................................8 PRESIDENT Jerald Stiele
NATIONAL NEWS ................................................................11 IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Dan Sjolseth, AAM SECRETARY-TREASURER Tom Gleason
F.Y.I. ..............................................................................14 Reminder: Changes in State Law Impact MN Employers
COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Joyce Weinhandl
COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S) ....18 MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Greg Kasel, AAM
Heat, Fans and Cords by Janet L. Keyes, CIH, C.H.E.S.S., Inc.
ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Kevin Martin COLLISION SEAT Mike Cox, AAM Jim Siegfried, AAM
CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP! ..........................................22 AASP-MN and Certegy Partnership
MECHANICAL SEAT Wayne Watson
STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judell Anderson, CAE, AAM OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jodi Pillsbury MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Tom Kluver PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110 PHONE: 973-667-6922 • FAX: 973-235-1963 ADVERTISING: 800-991-1995 • tgp5@verizon.net PUBLISHER: Thomas Greco (thomas@grecopublishing.com) ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Norman Morano (tgp5@verizon.net) MANAGING EDITOR: Alicia Figurelli (tgp2@verizon.net) EDITOR: Joel Gausten (tgpjoel@verizon.net) ART DIRECTOR: Lea Velocci (lea@grecopublishing.com) OFFICE MANAGER: Sofia Cabrera (tgpbrandi@verizon.net)
ADVERTISER’S INDEX
aaa Auto Salvage ................................4 Adamson Motors ................................10 AmeriPride ..........................................20 Buerkle Hyundai ..................................16 Choice Auto Rentals ............................17 Dentsmart............................................18 Inver Grove Ford..................................21 Inver Grove Honda / Inver Grove Toyota ..19 Jack McClard ......................................4 Keystone..............................................16 Lowell’s PCE........................................11 Luther Hopkins Honda ........................10 Maplewood Toyota ..............................17 AASP News
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Mercedes Benz of Maplewood ............21 Mills Parts Center................................7 Morrie’s ..............................................15 Motorwerks BMW................................IBC Motorwerks Mini ................................IBC MPA ..................................................................12-13 NAPA ..................................................7 Rosedale Chevrolet..............................20 Roseville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram ........7 Straight & Square................................19 Toyota Group ......................................3 United Fire Group................................OBC West Bend Insurance ..........................IFC August 2014 5
ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Aluminum Repair: Are You Ready? by Kevin Martin, AASP-MN Associate Division Director
It seems the old adage “the only thing that is constant is change” rings so true in the automotive business. The changes we continue to see with the influx of aluminum are just the start of the structural changes we will see and experience. These changes are quickly forcing businesses to add capital equipment. Working for a large corporation (PPG), we have a set budget for capital equipment that goes to maintain, repair, replace and add equipment. That is not as easily done with small businesses. But should it be? I read an article last year that collision shops will need to be doing $1.5 million to $2 million annually to be able to absorb expenses necessary to keep up with equipment changes required to work on late-model vehicles. We are seeing more and more evidence of that. So what is driving all of these changes? A government initiative called Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE). A quick Google search provides hundreds of links with detailed explanations of the requirements and timelines. We are in the early phases of the timeline. The long-term goal of CAFE standards calls for automakers to achieve a combined average of at least 54.5 miles per gallon across all of their new car and light-duty truck lines manufactured in 2025 and beyond. More fuel-efficient engines are only part of what the OEMs plan to comply with the standards. Among some of the common materials used to manufacture vehicles, aluminum holds the most promise to help automakers meet the new fuel-economy standards. Manufacturers are introducing more aluminum than ever before because of its impact on fuel efficiency. As I visit shops, I am shocked by how much aluminum is already in use on common vehicles. Most high-production
Photo courtesy of Audi of America
vehicles to this point have all been confined to specific panels made of aluminum, making repairs somewhat simple by replacing the damaged panel. As we see aluminum move into mass-produced vehicles led by the move to the Ford F-150 platform, the stakes now rise significantly. “Aluminum has a strength-to-weight ratio that meets engineering and safety needs, is durable and is a material that designers are comfortable working with,” said Matthew Dionne, president of Hydro’s Extrusion North America unit. Pressure to increase fuel efficiency is inspiring automakers to be creative, Dionne adds. “You’re seeing aluminum move from relatively simple uses, like seat tracks, brackets and hoods to more sophisticated structural applications. Advances in fabrication and finishing are moving aluminum parts from internal, functional uses to external applications that are visible to the consumer.”
Aluminum has several unique characteristics compared with other vehicle materials, such as steel. Repairing the heat-sensitive material requires use of advanced repair techniques and methods. For shops, that means updated training and equipment. But in addition to knowledge, your shop floor must have the space to make the repair. Aluminum repairs can’t be treated like any other, and definitely require updates to your facility - most notably, installation of a clean room. The following are a few other examples of required tools/equipment that are common amongst most of the OEM manufacturers: • Clean Room - required for aluminum work, it helps minimize the risk of the aluminum being contaminated by other materials in the shop. • MIG welding requires precision in the shielding gas mixture and travel speed. Tesla, Mercedes and Audi-certified shops have very detailed specs on the type and brand of equipment required. • A duplicate set of tools to be used exclusively with aluminum panels (to prevent galvanic corrosion). • Aluminum dust is explosive. So the shop must be equipped with extra safety equipment like an explosion-proof vacuum cleaner. • A designated set of frame equipment. Example: Tesla provides repair specs exclusively to Carbench-equipped frame shops. Audi only approves Celette. A complete Carbench or Celette setup will cost around $130,000. • Trained/certified technicians - aluminum conducts heat much better than steel, which makes the process of heating for repairs very different. continued on pg. 20
Welcome New Members: JUNE 2014 Boulevard Collision Golden Valley 6 August 2014
Chapman’s Auto Repair Milaca
New Central Auto Body Minneapolis
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Ultimate Car Care Inver Grove Heights
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LOCAL NEWS 132 golfers and 25 sponsoring companies enjoyed a beautiful day golfing and socializing at the 20th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing at Tartan Park Golf Course in Lake Elmo on Tuesday, June 17. With a score of 60 (12 under par), this year’s winning team members were:
20th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing Highlights
Thank you to the following companies for sponsoring holes during the event: aaa Auto Parts Action Auto Parts AmeriPride Services Axalta Coating Systems BASF CBIZ AIA Dent Impressions Enterprise Rent-a-Car FinishMaster & Auto Plus Hertz Corporation Kent Automotive LKQ/Keystone Automotive Lowell’s Performance Coatings Meadowbrook Insurance Midwest Parts Advantage National Coatings & Supplies O’Reilly Auto Parts Pam’s Auto, Inc. Pro Paint Pump & Meter Service Sherwin-Williams Suburban GM Parts Wakeman Equipment
Joe Hernandez, LKQ/Keystone Jesse Jacobson, Heppner’s Auto Body Jim Dow, LKQ/Keystone Joe Fleischhacker, 3M
In addition, Dave Williams (Hopkins Auto Body) and Darren Heairet (Walser Automotive), both pictured below right, hit a Hole In One, which really added to the excitement of the day! A raffle/fundraiser was held during the event to support AASP-MN’s Political Action Committee (PAC) fund. The raffle raised over $1,300 for the fund, including $350 that was re-donated by this year’s very generous raffle winner, Bruce Tschida, (Lake Marion Collision).
Photos, clockwise from top left:
This year’s winning team; Hole In One winners Dave Williams and Darren Heairet; the very popular Pro Paint Bloody Mary bar; raffle winner Bruce Tschida poses with AASP-MN Executive Director Judell Anderson and membership coordinator Tom Kluver.
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In addition, AASP-MN would like to extend a very special thank you to PPG Automotive Finishes for its event sponsorship; Suburban Chevrolet and Dent Impressions for sponsoring Hole in One contests; and Pro Paint for sponsoring the Bloody Mary bar. Your support is greatly appreciated by all who attended!
Minnesota I-CAR/SkillsUSA Volunteer Committee Announces its 2014 Golf Outing
The Minnesota I-CAR/SkillsUSA Volunteer Committee invites golfers and sponsors to Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville on September 10, 2014 for a relaxing day of golf. All proceeds from the event go towards scholarships for future technicians, equipment for technical colleges and other collision industry training needs. The four-person scramble begins at 12:30pm, with dinner and awards following golf. Registration and payment for golfers and sponsors can be found on the golf outing’s website, www.icargolf.com. Register before August 15 for a substantial discount. Use this opportunity to market your business and support the industry while enjoying a round of golf with industry leaders. Those who can’t participate can help by providing door prizes or auction items by contacting tournament director Shawn Collins at smcollins@mmm.com or 612-508-8222.
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Two AASP-MN members will graduate from the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and receive the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation at the 2014 Industry Week event (NACE/CARS), July 28th – August 2, in Detroit, MI. They are:
Two AASP-MN Members to Receive AAM Designation
Perry Lindberg, Perry’s Auto Salon, Rush City Bruce Tschida, Lake Marion Collision, Lakeville
Congratulations, Perry and Bruce! To earn the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation, students must earn 120 credits by successfully completing AMI curriculum. AASP of Minnesota has purchased all of the AMI self-study programs for its members’ use. AMI charges $35 for each test taken and there is a $10 shipping and handling fee for us to ship the course out to you. For more information, contact the AASP-MN office at 612-623-1110.
A Reminder…
Elise Groenewold, an auto body student at Dakota County Technical College (Rosemount, MN), finished among the top three students in the national SkillsUSA Collision Repair Technology contest. The Conference was held June 23 - 27 in Kansas City, MO, where over 6,000 outstanding career and technical education students joined in the excitement of hands-on competition in 99 different trade, technical and leadership fields. Elise earned her spot in the nationals with dual wins at the state SkillsUSA contest held in March, where she took 2nd place in Auto Refinishing Technology and 1st place in Collision Repair Technology. Elise brought home a bronze medal in the national competition for Collision Repair Technology. The Collision Repair Technology competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in the following areas: Metal straightening, welding, plastic repair and structural analysis. The overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices were judged. The competitors also completed an interview, a written test on estimating and structural analysis and an ASE exam. SkillsUSA is the national organization for students in trade, industrial, technical and health occupations education. It sponsors the SkillsUSA Championships annually to recognize the achievements of career and technical education students and to encourage them to strive for excellence and pride in their chosen occupations. Congratulations to Elise and her DCTC advisors, Gerry Rainford and Scott Logan!
MN Student Earns Medal at SkillsUSA Championships
Thank You to our Sponsors!
Program Sponsors AASP National AkzoNobel Performance Coatings Auto Care Association Auto Value Parts Stores/APH Autoshop Solutions Bill Smith Foundation Carbench CARQUEST Dent Impressions Dentsmart PDR Keystone Automotive PPG Automotive Finishes WorldPac
Hospitality Sponsors 3M aaa Auto Parts AAA Minnesota/Iowa Aeromotive Services, Inc. AmeriPride Services AudaExplore Axalta Coating Systems BASF CBIZ AIA CCC Information Services Choice Auto Rental Dorman Products Hertz Corporation IDENTIFIX Inver Grove Ford Lincoln Keystone Automotive Lowell’s Performance Coatings Malco Products, Inc. Meadowbrook Insurance Midwest Parts Advantage Mitchell International Mitchell1 Noble Conservation Solutions Norton Automotive Aftermarket O’Reilly Auto Parts PAM’s Auto, Inc. Pro Paint Sherwin-Williams Suburban Chevrolet
YOU’LL FIND: • A link to the AASP-MN Facebook Page (Like Us!) • Info to order 2015 Automotive Calendars
YOU CAN:
AASP-MN WEBSITE!
• Update your company profile • Upload a photo of your business to your company profile • Order AASP-MN metal signs, shirts & plaques • Submit a classified ad to be added to the AASP-MN website
AND MUCH MORE! CHECK OUT WWW.AASPMN.ORG! AASP News
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NATIONAL NEWS
Celebrates 25 Years of Delivering Management Education to the Automotive Service and Collision Repair Industry This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Automotive Management Institute (AMI), the leading provider of management education for the automotive service and collision repair industry. The Institute currently offers more than 1,300 approved courses, a faculty of 300 approved instructors and the prestigious Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation. To date, its programs have attracted 230,000 enrollments throughout North America. The Institute was founded 25 years ago based on the concept that there was an abundance of technical education in the market, but very little industry-specific management education. At the start, AMI offered 26 courses taught by 10 instructors. Today, courses are offered on a range of topics including marketing and sales, operations and service, management and administration, financial management, personnel management and human resource development. Students can choose from several formats including webinars, online courses, DVD-quality downloads, self-study workbooks and traditional classroom settings. In the past 25 years, more than 1,700 students have completed 120 credits of education and graduated from AMI with the AAM designation. And 112 of them are in Minnesota! “In 1989, our founders had a vision – to make management education specifically tailored to the industry accessible to owners, managers and their staff,” said AMI Executive Director, Toni Slaton, AAM. “Since then, more than 700 AMI-approved courses are delivered annually at many of the industry’s largest events.” The Institute will celebrate its 25th anniversary with special events throughout the year, starting with the International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) and the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS), July 30-Aug. 1, in Detroit. For more information about the Institute, its curriculum, or EXCEL, please contact AMI at (800) 2727467 ext. 129, or visit the AMI website at www.AMIonline.org.
iATN Membership Exceeds 80,000 The International Automotive Technicians Network (iATN®, www.iatn.net) now has more than 80,000 active members, the largest number ever in the network’s 19-year history. Members are located in 160 countries and collectively share 1.9 million years of experience on iATN. “Although we’ve crossed the 80,000 member threshold, iATN members are the minority of the industry: they are the professionals who understand what it takes to survive in our increasingly challenging profession,” said Scott Brown, president of iATN. “Members here find that by networking with fellow professionals, they are continuously expanding their knowledge on systems, tools and best practices that often elevate their careers to the next level. iATN provides a platform that allows members to communicate with each other interactively by sharing case studies, solving vehicle problems and sharing tips that cover the gamut of challenges facing the automotive service industry.” The primary membership benefits of iATN include TechHelp, where thousands of automotive technicians from all over the world exchange information and ideas 24 hours a day. Members also have access to more than 20 different technical, shop management and auto industry web forums and the extensive iATN Knowledge Base. The Knowledge Base includes the FIX Database with more than 200,000 real-world vehicle fixes, Forum Archives with millions of iATN web forum discussions, and the Waveform Library with 35,000 waveforms, scan data images, component photos, and other vehicle specific images, documents and videos that have been uploaded to the network. iATN was founded in 1995 and is the largest online community of automotive technicians, repair shop owners and other allied service professionals in the world. For additional information about iATN, visit www.iatn.net.
IRS Releases Final Rule for Small Business Tax Credit in Affordable Care Act The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released the Final Rule on June 30 that governs the tax credit for small businesses offering health insurance benefits to their employees, extending it to those with 25 or fewer full-time employees (FTEs). The Final Rule largely follows the Proposed Rule released on Aug. 26, 2013, and includes these changes: • The maximum credit increases to 50 percent of premiums paid for small business employers. • To be eligible for the credit, a small business employer must pay premiums on behalf of employees enrolled in a qualified health plan offered through a Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace or qualify for an exception to this requirement. • The credit is available to eligible employers for two consecutive taxable years.
The number of FTEs is calculated by computing the total hours of service for the taxable year and dividing by 2,080. Additionally, there are three optional methods available for computing the total hours of service. The regulation also states that an employer’s premium payments are limited by the average premium in the small group market in the rating area in which the employee enrolls for coverage through a SHOP exchange. Additional information is available online at: www.irs.gov/uac/ Small-Business-Health-Care-Tax-Credit-for-Small-Employers. AASP News
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F.Y.I.
Reminder – Changes in State Law Impact MN Employers Increases in Minimum Wage Effective August 1, 2014, the minimum wage in Minnesota will rise over the next several years. The schedule is: • Large employers (an enterprise with an annual gross volume of sales of $500,000 or more) must pay a rate of at least: - $8.00 per hour beginning August 1, 2014. - $9.00 per hour beginning August 1, 2015. - $9.50 per hour beginning August 1, 2016. - The rate as adjusted for inflation, beginning January 1, 2018. • Small employers (an enterprise with an annual gross volume of sales of less than $500,000) must pay a rate of at least: - $6.50 per hour beginning August 1, 2014. - $7.25 per hour beginning August 1, 2015. - $7.75 per hour beginning August 1, 2016. - The rate as adjusted for inflation, beginning January 1, 2018.
The law also provides minimum wage raises for the 90-day training wage (for employees 18 and 19 years old), and establishes a youth wage (for workers under 18) and a special wage schedule for certain hotels, motels, and resorts with a summer work travel exchange visitor program.
21 or more employees, and employees are subject to minimum prior service and hours-worked requirements.
Changes to the Minnesota Human Rights Act • “Familial status” is a new protected class for purposes of employment. • “Familial status” is “the condition of one or more minors being domiciled with (1) their parent or parents or the minor’s legal guardian or (2) the designee of the parent or parents or guardian with the written permission of the parent or parents or guardian.” The prohibition against discrimination based on familial status also protects pregnant women and anyone “in the process of securing legal custody of an individual who has not attained the age of majority.” • Labor organizations, employers and employment agencies are all prohibited from discriminating on the basis of familial status. Employees and applicants cannot be required to provide information regarding their familial status. • Includes an appropriation for enforcement of the act.
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2014: Minnesota Parenting Leave Law • Amends the Minnesota Parenting Leave Law to provide 12 weeks of unpaid leave (up from 6) for pregnancy Women’s Economic and parenting, and brings Security Act MN law generally into On Mother’s Day, May 11, accordance with the federal Governor Dayton signed MinFamily and Medical Leave Act nesota’s new Women’s Economic with respect to eligibility for Security Act into law. Employers leave. Expands use of leave to should take note of the following cover prenatal care, incapacity provisions, some of which are effecdue to pregnancy, childbirth or tive immediately. related health conditions for Minnesota employers should female employees only. revisit their employment policies to • Modifies requirements ensure that they comply with these Timetable: Changes to MN Parenting and Sick Leave Laws regarding timing of leave, provisions. This law may require which may now begin anytime within 12 months after the birth changes to handbook policies or other employer rules regarding equal or adoption of a child, or within 12 months after the child employment opportunity, workplace accommodations, break time, leaves the hospital, if the child remains in the hospital longer parenting leave and sick leave. than the mother. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: Pregnancy Accommodations Use of Paid Sick Leave • Requires reasonable accommodations including more • Expands use of employer-provided paid sick leave to cover frequent restroom, food and water breaks, seating and lifting care for an employee’s mother-in-law, father-in-law and limits for pregnant employees. Accommodations are grandchildren and in circumstances of domestic abuse, required to be provided to all pregnant employees under the sexual assault and stalking. law, without proof of medical necessity. • This provision does not require employers to provide paid • Employers are required to engage in the familiar interactive sick leave. process with respect to other requests for accommodation, based on the advice of a licensed health care provider or Nursing Mothers certified doula. • Requires that space provided for nursing mothers must be • The law specifically indicates that a temporary transfer to a shielded from view and free from intrusion, and include less strenuous or hazardous position may be required where access to an electrical outlet. This space cannot other accommodations are not possible. be in a bathroom or bathroom stall. • This law is part of Chapter 181 (not the Minnesota Human • Prohibits employers from retaliating against Rights Act), and is subject to the definitions therein, setting employees for asserting rights or remedies under forth which employees and employers are covered by the this section. law. For instance, this section only applies to employers with 14 August 2014 AASP News
• Creates a private right of action for violations of the section and authorizes enforcement by the Department of Labor.
Wage Disclosure Protection • Prohibits employers from taking action against employees who disclose wage information.
Equal Pay Certification • Employers will be required to obtain an Equal Pay Certificate to execute a contractor agreement with the state in excess of $500,000. • Applies to businesses with 40 or more full-time employees in Minnesota or the state where the business has its primary place of business. The law contains an undue hardship provision. • Includes appropriations for enforcement of the provision.
OTHER CHANGES: Unemployment Insurance • Amends Minnesota unemployment law to make it more likely that victims of sexual assault and stalking will qualify for benefits. • Provides unemployment compensation if “the applicant quit because domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking of the applicant or immediate family member of the applicant necessitated the applicant’s quitting employment.” • Defines employment misconduct to exclude employment misconduct that was a result of being a victim of sexual assault or stalking. • These provisions apply to determinations and appeal decisions issued on or after the effective date of October 5, 2014.
Grant Programs • Establishes grant programs to increase the number of women in high wage, high demand non-traditional occupations. • Establishes grant programs to promote the creation and expansion of women-owned businesses. • These programs are one-time appropriations for fiscal year 2015.
Retirement Savings Plan • Requires a report by January 1, 2015 on the feasibility of a state-administered retirement savings plan available to employees without access to either an automatic enrollment payroll deduction IRA maintained or offered by their employer, or a multiemployer retirement plan or qualifying retirement plan. • While this section is effective immediately, there are no substantive changes that employers need to be aware of at this time. Article provided by Kristin Berger Parker, StinsonLarsonAllen, 612.335.1770, kristin.parker@stinsonleonard.com.
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COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.) By Janet L. Keyes, CIH, C.H.E.S.S., Inc.
Heat, Fans and Cords
What’s the connection between heat, fans and cords? Most shops aren’t air-conditioned. Employees don’t take the summer off, so they heat up. And then they go to the local big box retailer and buy a cheap box fan to help cool down. Then we come in and tell them it’s not okay. Why not? Because it isn’t grounded. Any electrical equipment or extension cord used in your shop has to be grounded. If the equipment is hard-wired, the electrician saw to that when the equipment was installed. If it’s portable, the plug will have that third prong, the grounding prong. The exception: Power tools that are double-insulated. Those have a plastic case, polarized plugs, and are marked with the words “double-insulated” or a square-within-a-square symbol. Your entire electrical system is grounded. Current flows from the power company through wires into your shop, through electrical devices, and then to ground. The usual route to ground is through the neutral wire (the wide blade on a plug). But if something goes wrong – for instance, if there’s a short circuit or a wire breaks loose of its connection – electricity will find another path to ground. That can happen in the office area or the shop. But things are nice and quiet in the office area. You don’t have cars running over cords, people using abrasive tools or occasional wet floors.
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Electricity isn’t picky about what path it takes to ground. Just like water flowing downhill, it will take any path available, with preference given to paths through good conductors. Humans are very good conductors. That grounding prong provides a backup path to ground that is better than the human body. The cheap box fans are listed for household use only. They’re designed to be used in dry locations where they won’t be knocked around, where dust won’t accumulate and where there’s little risk of damage. Use them in the office areas if you must, but not in the shop. So if you can’t use a standard box fan to cool workers, what can you do? Provide grounded fans. Installing overhead fans may be a long-term solution. For the short-term, get industrial grade pedestal fans, which people can move around as they choose. You can use extension cords with these, provided you use a grounded, round cord rated for the fan. Round cords are hard-service cords. They’re the only type you should be using in the shop. Flat cords just aren’t heavy-duty enough for your work environment. Provide beverages to your employees. The best choice in a hot environment is cool water. Electrolyte replacement drinks are okay in limited amounts, but usually provide more salt and sugar than people need.
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Caffeinated drinks can act as diuretics. Carbonated ones can make people feel sated too quickly, so they don’t drink enough. Flavored waters might be a good option. Give workers a chance and a location to cool off. Put an air conditioner in their break area. Be alert to the signs of heat stress, and alert your employees to those signs. If someone starts feeling queasy or tired, or gets a headache, encourage that person to take a break in a cool area. If a worker becomes hot and flushed, suspect heat stroke – that’s a medical emergency, requiring immediate action. Employees will work better if they’re not overheating. As long as the relative humidity and the temperature aren’t both obscenely high, moving air will help cool them down. But you don’t want to risk electrocuting them as you cool them, so make sure all the fans in your shop are properly grounded (along with any extension cords used with them). If you have questions about electrical safety, heat stress, OSHA grants or other safety or environmental issues, contact CHESS at 651-481-9787; toll free at 877482-4377, or carkey@chess-safety.com. CHESS specializes in helping small- to medium-sized business with occupational health and safety issues. We have been providing services to the automotive industry for over 20 years.
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ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE continued from pg. 6
Each OEM manufacturer has a detailed list of its requirements. Audi has a 28-page manual on its requirements, including tools and equipment needed. Audi’s requirements appear to be the most extensive and could easily exceed 6 figures. The manual is located at: http://audicollisionrepair.com/ media/AudiAluminum_Collision_Manual. pdf. This is not meant to be an all-inclusive list, but rather an example of what will be needed for those choosing to compete for vehicles made with aluminum. While our industry continues to elevate itself, I have no doubt that the talented individuals who make up our industry will continue to showcase the entrepreneurial skills and spirit that will lead them down the path of success. Footnotes/References: • www.industryweek.com/blog/survey-aluminum-willhelp-auto-industry-meet-cafe-standards • FenderBender (January 2013) • http://audicollisionrepair.com/media/Audi_ Aluminum_Collision_Manual.pdf
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CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP!
AASP-MN and Certegy Partnership The AASP-MN is pleased to recommend Certegy, An FIS™ Company, as the preferred provider for check warranty/verification services. For nearly 50 years, Certegy has been the trusted leader in payment processing and loss prevention solutions supporting more than 289,000 merchants worldwide. With proven results built on innovative technology and a solid financial reputation, Certegy brings security and reliability to payment processing, fraud prevention and risk management – valuable commodities for an ever-changing market.
The following program is customized specifically for AASP-MN members: • Discount rate of only .75%, which covers NSF, closed accounts and nondisputed stop payment checks • Discount rate of .93%, which includes full stop-payment coverage • No transaction or statement fees • No check minimums • $25.00 monthly minimum • ACH billing and claims payment • $1.25 voice surcharge-only if remote transaction was not obtained • 60-day claim submission • Enhanced Warranty™ program virtually eliminates disallowed claims • Discounted equipment pricing
For more information on the AASPMN program, please contact Heather Ellis at 952-240-5017 or via email at heather.ellis@fisglobal.com. You may also call toll free (877) 5202987 to speak with a Certegy representative or email an inquiry with your company name, address and phone number to: product.info@fisglobal.com and reference “AASPMN” in the subject line.
AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE Meadowbrook Insurance Group Contact: Dennis Spindler 763-549-2238 / dspindler@cbizaia.com Up-front scheduled credit makes Meadowbrook one of the most competitive programs around for Worker‘s Compensation insurance. In addition, members are eligible to receive an annual dividend based on the group’s loss ratio. For more information, log on to www.wcpolicy.com/aaspmn. PROPERTY/LIABILITY INSURANCE CBIZ AIA Contact: Dennis Spindler 763-549-2238 / dspindler@cbizaia.com CBIZ AIA will present AASP-MN members with quotes from multiple carriers for property/liability insurance and members can choose the program that best fits their situation. As an added bonus, CBIZ AIA will offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CBIZ AIA Contact: Dennis Begley 763-549-2260 CBIZ AIA will provide AASP-MN member with quotes from multiple carriers for life insurance, health insurance, long-term care and disability insurance. UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES AmeriPride Services Contact: Jim Dillon 651-955-1398 • Fax: 952-738-3318 jim.dillon@ameripride.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 each year.
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CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Association BankCard Services Contact: Mac Hardin 952-933-2026 • Fax: 952-933-4595 mach@retailfinancialservices.biz Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipment is also available. INDUSTRIAL & PAPER PRODUCTS Wipers & Wipes, Inc. Contact: Dennis Julson Phone: 651-486-4866 Fax: 651-486-4859 Discounts on industrial supplies and paper products. Free, next-day delivery is available in the metro area. Shipping free to outstate members with $100 purchase. WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Net Driven Contact: Jon Napoli 218-623-7351 / 218-310-7285 Net Driven is a market leader in website and internet marketing solutions designed exclusively for the automotive industry. Net Driven assists independent tire and automotive industry dealers who are looking to increase revenue by selling more tires, service, and wheels. AASP-MN members who choose Net Driven are eligible for a $500 discount off their 1st year setup fees. For more information, contact Jon Napoli. Stormlogix Contact: Paul Switzer 732-364-1156 / paul.switzer@stormlogix.com Stormlogix extends a discount on its website packages to AASP members. Costs can be spread out over 6 months.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE IDENTIFIX Phone: 800-288-6220 Fax: 651-633-2188 Members enjoy discounted prices on the industry’s #1 technical information hotline. One free call is extended to all first-time AASP-MN member callers. BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury Phone: 612-623-1110 or toll free 800-852-9071 Fax: 612-623-1122 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discount rate on printed business forms and calendars. SHOP SERVICES Summit Software & Mobile Solutions Contact: Frank Terlep 888-377-2661 / fterlep@summitsoftwaresolutions.com. Website: www.emarketingsherpas.com AASP members receive a $50 discount on their annual e-Marketplace subscription, a digital marketing system that includes mobile phone apps and a complete customer service, sales, marketing, advertising and communication platform. INFORMATION PROVIDERS Mitchell1 Contact: Mitchell1 Representative Phone: 888-724-6742 x 6986 AASP members are eligible for special Mitchell 1 information and management programs at significant discounts. For more information, log onto www.mitchell1.com or contact the Mitchell 1 representative at 888-724-6742, X6986. Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative Phone: 800-238-9111 AASP members receive a 15% discount on any Mitchell RepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visit http://repaircenter.mitchell.com/Catalog/OEM Repair.aspx for more information.
AASP News
PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Bob Willbanks 612-298-1176 / bwillbanks@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll products and services (excluding 401k). Members who switch prior to June 30 will receive first month of payroll processing free. CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services Contact: Heather Ellis 952-240-5017 / heather.ellis@fisglobal.com Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments. BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Website: www.180biz.com 180BIZ offers BUSINESS COACHING to AASP members at a steep 20% discount! One Eighty Business Solutions LLC (180BIZ) has been helping shop owners increase profits and car count while decreasing stress since 2003. AASP members receive a discount on very affordable oneon-one coaching plans without long-term commitments and complicated contracts. 180BIZ offiers a risk-free trial of their services. To learn more, please call or email us, or visit our website. REPLACEMENT PARTS Dorman Products Phone: 800-868-5777, ext. 5329 Website: www.dormanproducts.com AASP members receive insider information, special access and other perks from Dorman Products, a leading supplier of dealer “exclusive” automotive replacement parts. LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick Phone: 800-496-6789 Fax: 218-725-6800 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.
AASP News
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