Prohibited Practices for Using Jack Support Blocks on Passenger Vehicles
Jack support blocks are essential for safe vehicle lifting. Incorrect use can compromise stability, damage the vehicle, or cause injury. Understanding the key usage prohibitions is vital for safe operation.
1. Common Prohibited Practices
Overloading the Jack or Block: Do not lift vehicles exceeding the rated weight capacity of the jack or support block.
Incorrect Placement: Avoid positioning the block under non-reinforced areas, body panels, or components not designed to bear load.
Using Damaged or Worn Blocks: Cracked, deformed, or hardened rubber blocks should never be used.
Uneven or Sloped Surfaces: Never place the jack on soft, uneven, or inclined surfaces without proper stabilization.
Improvised Tools: Avoid stacking objects, using bricks, wood, or other makeshift items as support blocks.
Ignoring Vehicle Specifications: Do not neglect manufacturer-recommended lifting points and clearance requirements.
Rapid Lifting or Lowering: Avoid sudden or rapid movements that could destabilize the jack or block.
2. Potential Consequences
Vehicle Damage: Incorrect placement can deform or damage chassis, suspension, or bodywork.
Support Block Failure: Misuse or overloading can cause cracking, crushing, or slipping of the block.
Instability and Accidents: The vehicle may tip, slip, or fall, posing severe safety hazards.
Operator Injury: Improper use significantly increases the risk of personal injury during lifting operations.
3. Recommended Safe Practices
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to vehicle lifting points and weight limits.
Inspect Blocks Before Use: Check for wear, cracks, deformation, or surface contamination.
Use Proper Surfaces and Stabilization: Place the jack on level, firm ground; consider load-distributing plates on soft surfaces.
Educate Operators: Ensure users understand the proper techniques, prohibitions, and safety risks.
4. Conclusion
Using jack support blocks safely on passenger vehicles requires avoiding overloading, improper placement, damaged blocks, and unstable surfaces. Adherence to manufacturer guidelines, regular inspections, and operator training are essential to prevent accidents and ensure effective lifting operations.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive and Industrial Applications.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
ISO 7619-1 – Rubber, Vulcanized or Thermoplastic — Determination of Indentation Hardness.
