Over the past 10 years a number of Australians have been killed or seriously injured while undertaking vehicle DIY work. Many Australians carry out DIY vehicle maintenance at home and it often involves raising a vehicle from the ground. Working under a raised vehicle is inherently dangerous, and most of the deaths involved the vehicle being lifted or supported the wrong way.
CFA has appointed Joseph Borg as consumer representative to the Standards Australia Technical Committee CS-115 Vehicle jacks, stands and ramps which is reviewing the three Australian/New Zealand standards that cover hydraulic trolley jacks; vehicle support stands; and portable ramps for vehicles. The review will update and amend requirements for warning labels/consumer information, to make it clear that death may occur from incorrect use.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ( ACCC) undertook research into vehicle DIY practice and is leading a joint campaign with state and territory fair trading agencies to raise awareness about consumer safety when doing DIY mechanic work. Safety tips and information to stay safe when working under your car is available on the ACCC dedicated Under your car – DIY vehicle maintenance page.
Before starting any DIY projects or home maintenance, see the tips and information on a range of products on the ACCC DIY safety page on the Product Safety Australia website.
CFA provides volunteer representatives on Standards Australia Technical Committees as part of the CFA Standards Project; if you are interested in finding out more about the Project and/or becoming a volunteer CFA Standards Representative please contact the Standards Coordinator at standards@consumeraction.
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