Automotive Repair Industry Research Articles

Investigation into the Profitability Strategies of Shared Sheet Metal Spray Centers

With the introduction of regulations such as the "Decision of the Ministry of Transport on Amending the Regulations on the Administration of Motor Vehicle Maintenance" in China, the government's environmental requirements for the traditional automotive repair industry have been continuously increasing. The spray painting and sheet metal repair business, which has a significant environmental impact, has gradually evolved into modern, intensive, and specialized shared sheet metal spray centers. While domestic scholars have paid some attention to the social and environmental benefits of shared sheet metal spray centers, there is a lack of systematic research on their profit models. This paper investigates the current state of shared sheet metal spray centers by analyzing the development of the spray painting and sheet metal repair industry, comparing the profit models of other sharing economy sectors vertically, and integrating the value chain theory to sort out the profit strategies of shared sheet metal spray centers. The aim is to provide theoretical reference for spray and sheet metal repair operators to promote the healthy development of shared sheet metal spray centers.

Role of EU Grant Projects in Employment, Sectoral Employment and Innovation in Auto Repairing, Young Generations and New Horizons Project Case

European Union Council Regulation (1085/2006 dated), the Financial Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA) as well as for Turkey and potential candidate countries constitute the basis. The main objective of IPA is to assist the participating countries in dealing with European integration problems and undertaking the necessary reforms to comply with the Copenhagen criteria, which are EU membership requirements. Operation for Supporting Youth Employment in Sectoral Investment Areas (PYE-II) financed under IPA is carried out for employment, which is the primary target of its program. PYE-II operation, Turkısh Employment Agency(İŞKUR) has been implemented in Turkey by and the overall goal is to promote youth employment, retain more people in employment and increase the employment rate of young people. In this framework, the aim of supporting Youth Employment in Sectoral Investment Areas is to increase the employability of young people while promoting their integration into the labor market. Within the scope of the Grant Program for Supporting Youth Employment in Sectoral Investment Areas (PYE II), innovations were realized in the Auto Repair, Young Generations and New Horizons project. In this study; Innovations in the professional activities of the Auto Repair, Young Generations and New Horizons project, their contribution to employment in the automotive repair industry and their effects were announced.

Perceptions of Health and Safety among Workers in the Automotive Repair Industry in Dubai (United Arab Emirates): A Cross-sectional Exploratory Study

<strong>Background:</strong> Protection of workers against work-related injuries and illnesses is a growing public health concern. The increasing number of expatriate workers in Dubai has highlighted the need for greater emphasis on occupational health and safety, particularly since unintentional injuries were reported to be the second most common cause of death in the United Arab Emirates. <strong>Objectives:</strong> This cross-sectional study explores safety practices and health perceptions of workers in the automotive repair industry, in the light of the Health Belief Model. <strong>Materials and Methods:</strong> The study included 35 automotive repair industry workers, selected by convenience sampling from an automotive workshop in Dubai. Primary data was collected though a structured interview and walk-through survey. <strong>Results</strong>: Only 10% of the workers had received occupational health and safety training from employers. Though the highest perceived hazardous exposure was to carbon monoxide fumes (62.9%), but the majority did not consider the severity of this exposure high enough to be of concern. This discrepancy in perceived vulnerability despite perceived exposure reflects the lack of awareness on severity of exposure to physical and chemical hazards in the car repair shop. A significant relation was seen between cumulative perceptions to exposure to hazards and marital status of the workers, with married workers perceiving greater exposure to hazards at the workplace. Protective equipment was considered important by 83% of the participants but only 54.5% reported using them. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> There is a dire need for targeted occupational health awareness training and enforcement of safety regulations to ensure the safety of workers in the automotive repair industry.

Trisaminohexyl Isocyanurate (TAHI) Levels in Plasma and Urine in Workers Exposed to 1,6-Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI) Monomer and HDI Isocyanurate

Identification and quantification of trisaminohexyl isocyanurate (TAHI) as a biomarker of 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) isocyanurate exposure is a critical step for evaluating the contributions of work environment and personal protective equipment practices in limiting isocyanate exposure. Polymeric HDI isocyanurate is the predominant inhalation and skin exposure in the automotive repair industry, yet, biological monitoring has been limited to metabolites of HDI monomer exposure. We analyzed TAHI and hexamethylene diamine (HDA), a biomarker for HDI monomer exposure, in the plasma and urine of automotive spray-painters. Despite the large number of samples with HDA, daily total urinary HDA and plasma HDA were weakly associated with inhalation exposures to HDI monomer (Urine: r = 0.121, p = 0.1980; Plasma: r = 0.120, p = 0.2146) or HDI isocyanurate (Urine: r = 0.011, p = 0.9112; Plasma: r = 0.065, p = 0.5015). By comparison, correlations for TAHI were strong with both HDI monomer (Urine: r = 0.329, p = 0.0003; Plasma: r = 0.262, p = 0.0062) and HDI isocyanurate inhalation exposures (Urine: r = 0.364, p = <0.0001; Plasma: r = 0.335, p = 0.0004). HDA and TAHI levels in urine and plasma had equally strong correlations with HDI monomer and HDI isocyanurate skin exposures. However, due to the collinearity of HDI monomer (r = 0.475, p = <0.0001) and HDI isocyanurate (r = 0.377, p = <0.0001) inhalation and skin exposures, the contributions of exposure pathways to biological levels is unknown. Workplace factors such as paint-booth type, coverall and glove use, and respirator type may be equally or more important factors for variation in TAHI levels. Using linear mixed modeling in SAS, we are currently investigating the contributions of exposure pathways and workplace factors on HDA and TAHI levels in plasma and urine in this occupationally exposed worker cohort.

The Automotive-Repair Industry and the Practice of Insurance Steering: Is There a Fulfilling Escape Route Available for Auto-Repair Facilities?

The automotive-repair industry has fallen victim to the insurance industry’s ability to manipulate a market in which fairness is obsolete. Operating an automotive-repair facility largely depends on engaging in agreements with insurance companies. Repair facilities highly depend on insurance companies for customers, which in turn allows insurance companies more control in the relationship between the two businesses. Through the practices of steering, creating a prevailing rate, and creating direct-repair programs, insurance companies have caused significant injury to the automotive-repair industry. Many repair facilities suffer a loss of business, fail to maintain a profit, and suffer a competitive disadvantage due to these insurance practices. The author contends that a number of Louisiana and federal laws have the potential to remedy the injuries repair facilities endure, yet the issue remains whether these laws are meant to protect the automotive-repair industry from such insurance practices. Because Louisiana courts have yet to establish jurisprudence on this issue, the author examined jurisprudence from other state and federal courts. These cases indicate insurance companies are abusing these practices and causing an unfair restraint on competition in the automotive-repair market. Throughout this article, the author explains how insurance companies discretely steer insureds to the companies’ preferred repair facilities, which, in effect, causes significant injury to repair facilities having customers steered away from them. By detailing every Louisiana law that can potentially provide protection and redress to the automotive-repair industry, this author urges the State of Louisiana to take steps towards ensuring the laws provide justice to injured repair facilities. The anti-steering provisions in states where repair facilities have prevailed are more directly aimed toward protecting the automotive-repair industry. Thus, the author also recommends that the Louisiana legislature amend the state’s anti-steering provision to expressly, in writing, provide a right of action for automotive-repair facilities.

Processos de racionalização e novos desenhos identitários: a reestruturação da indústria da reparação automotiva e do ofício do mecânico

O objetivo deste artigo é compreender a elaboração de novos desenhos identitários em uma categoria de ofício que experimenta um momento de intensificação dos processos de racionalização do trabalho e da empresa. Trata-se de analisar as transformações do ofício do mecânico em face da reestruturação da indústria da reparação automotiva, que se intensificou a partir dos anos 1990. Neste texto, pretende-se examinar o "campo da oficina" em um contexto no qual o mercado demanda novas competências profissionais e novas posturas empreendedoras. Busca-se verificar, a partir de um estudo de caso na cidade de Porto Alegre (RS), de que maneira os sujeitos que atuam no segmento têm resistido e/ou negociado com tais exigências, "reparando" as suas identidades.

An algorithm for the estimation of the quality of the spot welds

Spot welds are widely used in industry, especially in automotive, so welds must be reliable. One of the approaches to estimate the quality of spot welds is to use ultrasonic testing. Spot welding is used in the automotive repair industry as well. However, a spot weld testing device, dedicated for the automotive repair industry, is not available. The objective of this work was to develop an algorithm for estimation of the quality of spot welds, to be used in a simple device in the automotive repair industry. The algorithm developed identifies the peaks in the acquired signal and separates the main peaks (ultrasonic signal reflected from the backwall of the weld) from intermediate peaks (which identify the defects in the weld or undersized weld). Then, according to the peak distribution and peak amplitude variations in the signal, the quality of the weld is determined and an automatic pass or fail indication given. The algorithm was verified using a finite element model of a good weld, an undersized weld and a weld with a pore.

Occupational skin diseases in automotive industry workers

Context: Studies on occupational skin diseases in workers of the automotive industry are few.Aim: To investigate the prevalence of occupational skin diseases in workers of the automotive industry.Materials and methods: Between September and December 2011, a total of 405 workers from the automotive repair industry in Diyarbakır were interviewed. They were active workers in the repair industry who had been employed for at least six months. Business owners, sellers of spare parts and accounting officers were not included. The employees were examined at their workplaces and the working conditions were observed. Detailed dermatological examination was performed.Results: The mean age of the 405 workers who participated in the study was 27.7 ± 10.3. The mean working time of employees was 13.3 ± 10.4 years. All of the employees were male. Dermatological diseases were not detected in 144 out of 405 workers (35.6%) and at least one condition was diagnosed in 261 (64.4%). The most frequent diagnosis was callus, hyperkeratosis, clavus (27.7%), followed by nail changes (16.8%) and superficial mycoses (12.1%). Contact dermatitis was seen at a rate of 5.9%.Discussion: Traumatic lesions such as hyperkeratotic lesions and nail changes were found most frequently. Traumatic lesions were common among individuals who did not use gloves. Most nail changes were localized leuconychia, a finding not reported in the studies on automotive industry workers. In accordance with the literature, irritant contact dermatitis was observed in patients with a history of atopy and who had been working for a long time.Conclusion: Occupational skin diseases comprise an important field in dermatology, deserving much attention. Further studies on occupational dermatology are necessary.

Scaffolding for automotive air conditioning learning environment

AbstractThis research is to construct a scaffold‐based learning environment of automotive air conditioning system repair and maintenance by using technologies of Internet, virtual reality, CAD graphic processing and 2D animation. It is a useful system of air conditioning system troubleshooting training for such learners as colleague or vocational school students or novices in automotive repair industry, etc. This environment is composed of different units, helping learns to understand different types of automotive air conditioning system troubles, their causes and corresponding troubleshooting steps. In this research, an experiment composed of a pre‐test and a post‐test on the sampled learners was conducted to measure if the learning environment was helpful for them in improving their automotive air conditioning system troubleshooting knowledge and skills. In addition, a user satisfaction questionnaire survey was also conducted and the user satisfaction rate reached as high as nearly 0.98, indicating the learners did find the learning system satisfactory and helpful. In conclusion, the learning system developed in this research can help promote the training of automotive air conditioning system maintenance and repair. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 18: 736–749, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com; DOI 10.1002/cae.20280

Occupational exposure to HDI: Progress and challenges in biomarker analysis

1,6-Hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) is extensively used in the automotive repair industry and is a commonly reported cause of occupational asthma in industrialized populations. However, the exact pathological mechanism remains uncertain. Characterization and quantification of biomarkers resulting from HDI exposure can fill important knowledge gaps between exposure, susceptibility, and the rise of immunological reactions and sensitization leading to asthma. Here, we discuss existing challenges in HDI biomarker analysis including the quantification of N-acetyl-1,6-hexamethylene diamine (monoacetyl-HDA) and N, N′-diacetyl-1,6-hexamethylene diamine (diacetyl-HDA) in urine samples based on previously established methods for HDA analysis. In addition, we describe the optimization of reaction conditions for the synthesis of monoacetyl-HDA and diacetyl-HDA, and utilize these standards for the quantification of these metabolites in the urine of three occupationally exposed workers. Diacetyl-HDA was present in untreated urine at 0.015–0.060 μg/l. Using base hydrolysis, the concentration range of monoacetyl-HDA in urine was 0.19–2.2 μg/l, 60-fold higher than in the untreated samples on average. HDA was detected only in one sample after base hydrolysis (0.026 μg/l). In contrast, acid hydrolysis yielded HDA concentrations ranging from 0.36 to 10.1 μg/l in these three samples. These findings demonstrate HDI metabolism via N-acetylation metabolic pathway and protein adduct formation resulting from occupational exposure to HDI.

Linking dimensions of perceived service quality to actual purchase behaviour

PurposeThis study aims to identify the dimensions recognised by customers when assessing quality in the automotive repair industry. It further examines potential variations in customers' perceptions of service quality based on their purchase behaviour designating different loyalty patterns.Design/methodology/approachThe SERVPERF instrument and the patronage behaviour were utilised to measure service quality and loyalty respectively. A total of 949 questionnaires were personally administered to customers of nine automotive repair companies in Greece.FindingsExploratory factor analysis revealed three service quality dimensions. These are: holistic customer consideration, infrastructure, and empathy. T‐tests were also utilised to reveal possible differences in terms of the identified dimensions. Controlling for customers' loyalty showed significant differences in 11 of the service quality items.Research limitations/implicationsDistributing questionnaires personally did not allow the creation of a completely representative sample of customers of the Greek automotive repair industry.Practical implicationsMeasuring customers' perceptions in terms of the three service quality dimensions that emerged can support decision making regarding initiatives to be taken. Moreover, findings suggest that managers should customise the holistic bundle of services offered.Originality/valueThe findings of this study provide insight into customers' priorities in the automotive repair industry. Furthermore, they reposition service quality construct within the customer satisfaction framework.

Boyd Racing, LLC v. Fruge, 08-581 (La. App. 3 Cir. 11/05/08); 2008 La. App. LEXIS 1468

Gaming Law Review and EconomicsVol. 13, No. 1 CASESBoyd Racing, LLC v. Fruge, 08-581 (La. App. 3 Cir. 11/05/08); 2008 La. App. LEXIS 1468Published Online:23 Feb 2009https://doi.org/10.1089/glre.2008.13110AboutSectionsPDF/EPUB Permissions & CitationsPermissionsDownload CitationsTrack CitationsAdd to favorites Back To Publication ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditEmail FiguresReferencesRelatedDetailsCited byComparing Constitutional Privacy and Data Protection Rights within the EUSSRN Electronic Journal, Vol. 791Protecting Professional Athletes from Spectator HarassmentSSRN Electronic JournalCrypto Coin Offerings and the Freedom of ExpressionSSRN Electronic JournalRevisiting Background Principles in Takings LitigationSSRN Electronic JournalReviving the Intracorporate Communications Non-publication Rule: An Strategy to Encourage Effective Investigation of Internal MisconductSSRN Electronic JournalBlatant Contradictions in Qualified-Immunity AppealsSSRN Electronic JournalA Legal Response to the Sovereign Citizen MovementSSRN Electronic Journal, Vol. 620Can a Court Change the Law by Saying Nothing?SSRN Electronic JournalThe Automotive-Repair Industry and the Practice of Insurance Steering: Is There a Fulfilling Escape Route Available for Auto-Repair Facilities?SSRN Electronic JournalEvidence? We Don't Need No Stinkinn Evidence!: How Ambiguity in Some Statess Anti-Slapp Laws Threatens to De-Fang a Popular and Powerful Weapon Against Frivolous LitigationSSRN Electronic JournalAttorney Fees after Octane Fitness and HighmarkSSRN Electronic JournalTrade Secrets – A Detailed Analysis of Domestic and Global ChallengesSSRN Electronic Journal, Vol. 45Louisiana Tax Sales: A Mystery UnraveledSSRN Electronic JournalSmitko v. Gulf South Shrimp, Inc.: Another Thread Unraveling the Efficacy of Suits to Quiet Tax Titles in LouisianaSSRN Electronic JournalSprawl in Canada and the United StatesSSRN Electronic JournalCash Holdings and Credit RiskSSRN Electronic JournalA Structured Approach to Calculating Reasonable RoyaltiesSSRN Electronic JournalShaming Trademark BulliesSSRN Electronic JournalDo Unto Others: The Importance of Better Compliance with Consular Notification RightsSSRN Electronic JournalA Structured Approach to Calculating Reasonable RoyaltiesSSRN Electronic JournalLitigation Trends in the Desegregation of Higher EducationSSRN Electronic Journal Volume 13Issue 1Feb 2009 Information© 2009 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.To cite this article:Boyd Racing, LLC v. Fruge, 08-581 (La. App. 3 Cir. 11/05/08); 2008 La. App. LEXIS 1468.Gaming Law Review and Economics.Feb 2009.82-85.http://doi.org/10.1089/glre.2008.13110Published in Volume: 13 Issue 1: February 23, 2009PDF download

Evaluation of asbestos exposure within the automotive repair industry: A study involving removal of asbestos-containing body sealants and drive clutch replacement

Two independent assessments were performed of airborne asbestos concentrations generated during automotive repair work on vintage vehicles . The first involved removal of asbestos-containing seam sealant, and the second involved servicing of a drive clutch. Despite the relatively high concentrations (5.6–28%) of chrysotile fibers detected within bulk samples of seam sealant, the average asbestos concentration for personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples during seam sealant removal was 0.006 f/cc (fibers/cubic centimeter of air). Many other air samples contained asbestos at or below the analytical limit of detection (LOD). Pneumatic chiseling of the sealant material during removal resulted in 69% of area air samples containing asbestos. Use of this impact tool liberated more asbestos than hand scraping. Asbestos fibers were only detected in air samples collected during the installation of a replacement clutch. The highest asbestos corrected airborne fiber concentration observed during clutch installation was 0.0028 f/cc. This value is approximately 100 times lower than Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 0.1 f/cc. The airborne asbestos concentrations observed during the servicing of vintage vehicles with asbestos-containing seam sealant and clutches are comparable to levels reported for repair work involving brake components and gaskets.

Hazardous waste minimization: Part IX. Waste minimization in the automotive repair industry.

Waste minimization in the automotive repair industry is characterized by the large numbers of small quantity generators (SQG) producing solvent, alkaline and detergent hazardous wastes. On-site management of multiple processes which vary depending on the size of shop make the administration of hazardous waste policies particularly complex. This paper presents the quantities and types of hazardous materials typically produced. Guidelines are presented to allow generators to organize a waste minimization program.