The most versatile tool in the shop is your body, but most of us pay precious little attention to protecting it when we work. In Part 1 of two parts, we tell you what you need to know about equipment to keep yourself safe.

Like you, I do battle with frozen bolts, grease, rust, gunk, fumes and particulates on a daily basis. Sometimes I lose small chunks of flesh, but I generally emerge able to continue the fight the next day. Over the years, I've seen a variety of disabilities sideline fellow techs, and have tried to avoid making the same mistakes they did. I'd like to share with you some of what I've learned.

There are hundreds of products out there designed to keep you safe around the shop-and you're no doubt familiar with many of them. But any safety-related product is worthless if it doesn't get used.

Oh, My Aching Back!

You've heard it before, but this time, listen: Don't play hero. Ask for help when moving heavy or bulky loads. Better yet, let transmission jacks, engine hoists and dollies do the heavy lifting. You don't try to hold the car up with one hand while you change its oil with the other, do you?

If you must wrangle heavy loads, wear a back brace or lifting belt and lift with your legs, not with your back. Never bend just from the waist to lift; bend your knees. Back injuries are the number one cause of long-term disability in our industry.

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