Housekeeping in the Parts Department (Housekeeping Part 5)

Posted: 1/4/2013 | Views: 199

You might think that the parts department would be the easiest area of the dealership to keep clean and organized, but letting just a few things go can create big problems. Parts employees are dealing with everything from cardboard boxes, to corrosive batteries, and other hazardous materials. It is important to keep this area orderly to avoid accidents if items are left on the floor or haphazardly put on shelves.

Here are a few common issues in the parts department, along with some suggested solutions:

Items left on the floor
- All isles and work areas should be clear of tripping hazards. Everything should have a designated storage place. As new parts are received, they should be properly stowed on shelves or designated storage areas.
Improperly stored fluorescent light bulbs
- If they are collected for disposal after use, then they need to be marked as universal waste with an accumulation date (they can only be stored up to one year on site). They should be in a container where they are not likely to be tipped-over or cracked.
Improperly stored used batteries
- Used batteries need to be stored in a leak-proof secondary container with accumulation dates. They can only be stored on site up to a year.
Electrical cords in walkways
- Electrical cords should never be used in walkways where they pose a trip hazard. Also, they should never be used in place of permanent wiring.
Heavy boxes stored on upper shelves
- Storage areas require a toe board of 4 inches, and on the other end, there should be an 18 inch clearance around fire sprinkler systems.
- Shelves should be anchored
- It is recommended that heavy or bulky items should be stored on lower shelves to reduce the risk of struck-by hazards.
Blocked electrical panels (boxes in front of them)
- Electrical panels require 36″ of clearance, and a clear access path.
Blocked fire extinguishers
- Emergency response hazard. An ideal solution is to remove items that block access, and keep all emergency response equipment clear at all times.