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The Ultimate Guide to Hidden Dangers of Auto Salvage Yards

The Ultimate Guide to Hidden Dangers of Auto Salvage Yards

Jun 20th 2022

About 14 million vehicles are retired every year in the United States. Some of the components, like glass and plastic, go to recycling. But most car parts--if not the entire vehicle itself--end up in auto salvage yards.

Getting used auto parts from salvage yards is a great way to save money on car repairs. They're also good for finding vintage components.

But those cost-savings are not free when you consider the many dangers that exist in salvage yards. While the Environmental Protection Agency regulates salvage yards, inspections may be infrequent after permitting.

The information below will alert you to some of the most common hidden dangers when searching for salvaged car parts. Take precautions to guard against these to ensure a safe auto-parts-hunting experience.

Dangerous Objects

One of the most dangerous aspects of auto salvage yards is the prospect of falling metal or other parts. For this reason, it is a good idea to wear some kind of protective headgear.

The same goes for your feet. If you do not have easy access to steel-toed work boots, select the sturdiest shoes you can find. (Whatever you do, don’t go in open-toed shoes.)

Besides wearing safety equipment, a good rule of thumb is to always be aware of your surroundings when navigating a salvage yard. Do not climb on stacked cars and always err on the side of caution when examining a vehicle.

Chemicals

Scrapped vehicles have myriad chemicals that are hazardous to human beings. For instance, petroleum products like oil, diesel, and gasoline contain hydrocarbons. These are toxic, carcinogenic, and flammable.

Vehicles that operated before 2005 may have remnants of methyl tertiary butyl ether. This was a fuel additive and octane enhancer. It is a serious environmental hazard (which is why it was banned by Congress) and is flammable and toxic to human beings.

Decaying batteries pose a safety risk as well. They contain sulfuric acid, which is odorless and often colorless. It can cause serious damage to your skin or eyes and even death from heavy exposure.

Fumes

Vehicle cooling systems contain freon, which is colorless and usually odorless. Inhaling freon fumes can lead to significant health problems. These include difficulty breathing, organ damage, fluid buildup in the lungs, and death.

Vehicle brake pads can contain asbestos, another cancer-causing agent. Sulfuric acid also can release dangerous fumes when heated. It is imperative to avoid inhaling these dangerous compounds.

Learn More about Staying Safe in Auto Salvage Yards

Now that you know about the most common hazards in auto salvage yards, you can take the necessary precautions to avoid or protect yourself from them. Remember that one of the best ways to keep safe from these ominous environments is to find alternatives to them, like online parts retailers.

Level Up is a family-owned business that prides itself on stocking a huge inventory of quality, name-brand auto parts at the lowest prices possible. Check out our online inventory or reach out to us today. We will work hard to help you find the exact part you need for your vehicle.