General hazards
Scalding - Radiator fluid, engine oil and other fluids that can get to high temperatures in the engine can scald you. DO NOT remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot because it will be under pressure.
Burning - you can receive burns from many components in a car including exhaust systems, any parts on an engine and brake discs and drums can also be extremely hot immediately after use.
Crushing - if working under a car replace the use of a jack with axle stands or drive on ramp. NEVER go under a car using a jack to hold it up. The initial loosening and final tightening of high torque nuts should be done with wheels on the ground.
Fire - Fuel is extremely flammable and fuel vapour is explosive and should be worked carefully around. Do not let fuel spill onto a hot engine or other hot components. Naked lights or smoking is prohibited whilst a vehicle is being worked on to prevent the event of a fire. beware of creating sparks (electrical or by tool use).
Electric shock - when working on or near an ignition system never have the engine or ignition turned on. Make sure mains equipment is properly grounded and is hooked up to an RCD (Residual Current Device) circuit breaker. Take off watches and rings or you could create a short circuit and recieve electrical burns
Gas or fume intoxication - exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be fatal if inhaled. Therefore, never run the engine in a confined space, such as a garage with the doors shut. Fuel, paint thinners and some solvents are also produce poisonous fumes.
Poisonous or irritable substances - battery acid can burn through your clothes and your skin. do not siphon by mouth any fuel, fluid or lubricant (antifreeze, brake hydraulic fluid, diesel fuel). Contact for long periods of time to engine oil can cause skin cancer. Air-con refrigerant creates a poisonous gas if there is a naked flame exposed near it. It may also burn your skin if it touches it.
Special hazards (summarised)
Hydroflouric acid is extremely corrosive and can burn through clothes and skin. wear protective gloves when handling components with this substance on it.
Batteries have an acid (sulfuric) inside them which when it comes in contact with clothing it burns through them. If it comes in contact with skin it needs to be washed off with fresh water. If it gets in your eyes it will make you lose your sight. the hydrogen gas given off by it is extremely explosive and can be set off by a spark.
When removing airbags, take care as to not make them go off.
Diesel injection systems supply fuel at high pressures and can penetrate the skin, with potentially fatal results.
