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The Importance of Automotive Lift Inspections: Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Broken concrete at the base of an automotive lift in a repair shop.
Concrete cracking at the base of this automotive lift.

Eaton Sales & Service LLC’s Lube & Lift division was called to a repair shop after the concrete at the base of a vehicle lift gave way. Upon inspection, our Rotary Authorized Installer discovered flaws in the original automotive lift installation that compromised the lift’s stability. This situation could have been avoided with a proper installation to manufacturer specifications and regular inspections. Thankfully, no one was hurt when this happened.

Vehicle lifts are essential for any automotive repair shop, but their safety and reliability depend on correct installation, regular maintenance, and annual inspections. Without these critical steps, a minor issue can quickly turn into a serious safety hazard. That’s why Eaton Sales & Service is committed to providing professional lift installation and inspection services to ensure workplace safety.

Who is the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI)?

Since 1945, the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) has served as the industry’s safety watchdog, promoting the safe design, construction, installation, inspection, and use of automotive lifts. ALI ensures that lifts meet strict industry safety standards, but certification is just the first step. Regular inspections by an ALI-certified lift inspector are essential to maintaining safety and compliance in repair facilities.

Why Annual Lift Inspections Matter

Purchasing a certified lift is just the beginning—it must also be properly installed, maintained, and inspected to ensure long-term safety. According to the ANSI/ALI ALOIM:2020 standard, all vehicle lifts must be inspected at least once a year by a qualified lift inspector. This applies to every lift, regardless of its type, age, or manufacturer.

The anchors of this automotive lift failed and shown here is the concrete breaking.
Automotive lift anchor failed and broke the concrete.

Annual inspections are critical because:

  • They ensure ongoing reliability and safe operation. A properly maintained lift prevents unexpected failures that could lead to injuries or costly downtime.
  • Health and safety officials frequently check for proof of inspections. OSHA and other regulatory bodies expect businesses to provide documentation proving compliance with industry safety standards.
  • They involve a comprehensive assessment of up to 120 inspection points. This includes the lift’s structural, mechanical, hydraulic, air, and electrical components, as well as verification of safety labels, instructions, and operator training records.

Eaton Sales & Service: Your Trusted Lift Inspection Provider

At Eaton Sales & Service, we take safety seriously. Unlike other companies that outsource their inspections, we have an in-house ALI-certified lift inspector on staff—not a contractor. This ensures that our customers receive expert, impartial inspections that meet the highest industry standards.

A closer look at the failed anchors beneath this automotive lift.
A closer inspection shows the broken anchors.

We understand that equipment issues don’t always happen during business hours. That’s why our team is on call 24/7 for emergency service. If a lift fails or a safety concern arises, we are ready to respond to minimize downtime and keep your operation running smoothly.

Stay Safe and Compliant—Schedule Your Inspection Today

Don’t wait until a lift failure puts your employees or business at risk. Schedule your annual lift inspection with Eaton Sales & Service today to ensure compliance, reliability, and safety. Contact us to learn more about our installation, inspection, and maintenance services.

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