When purchasing a vehicle lift, the focus is often on capacity, features, and price. However, for any commercial operation, there is one factor that outweighs all others: safety certification. A lift that is not officially certified represents a massive, unnecessary risk to your technicians, your customer vehicles, and your entire business liability.
At Global Garage Supplies, we believe safety is non-negotiable. That is why we stress the critical importance of the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) Certification when selecting any Alignment Lift.
Here is why ALI Certification is the gold standard for your shop and why choosing certified equipment is the smartest business decision you can make.
What Does the ALI Certification Logo Signify?
The ALI is a trade association dedicated to lift safety. Their certification program is the only one in North America that ensures a lift meets the stringent safety and performance requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
When you see the gold ALI certification label on a lift, it means that the specific model has undergone a rigorous, independent third-party testing process to confirm:
- Structural Integrity: The lift can safely hold its rated capacity and withstand extreme load conditions.
- Component Quality: All critical components, including cables, safety locks, and arms, meet high standards for materials and construction.
- Manufacturer Compliance: The manufacturer’s instructions, labels, and operator’s manuals are clear, accurate, and compliant with safety standards.
Why Certified Equipment is Non-Negotiable
For any shop performing commercial service, having an ALI Certified Alignment Lift is essential for three primary reasons:
1. Technician Safety
Your employees are your most valuable asset, and their safety must be paramount. Uncertified lifts often use lower-grade steel, have poorly designed safety locks, or lack necessary safety redundancies. In contrast, an ALI Certified lift provides the highest level of mechanical safety, minimizing the risk of catastrophic failure and protecting the people working beneath the vehicle.
2. Regulatory Compliance and Liability Protection
In the event of an accident, inspectors from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or other regulatory bodies will immediately check for proper safety certification.
- If the incident involves a non-certified lift, your shop opens itself up to significant liability, steep fines, and potentially devastating legal action.
- By investing in a certified Alignment Combo Kit, you establish due diligence and show commitment to the highest industry standards, providing crucial protection for your business.
3. Peace of Mind and Insurance Confidence
Insurance companies often view shops using certified equipment as lower risk. A certified lift ensures reliability, which reduces the chance of equipment failure leading to vehicle damage (a common insurance claim). Whether you are purchasing a heavy-duty Four-Post Lift or a low-profile Scissor Lift, the ALI sticker signifies reliability and risk mitigation.
Your Final Decision
Do not settle for “commercial grade” or “tested in-house.” Demand the verified assurance that only the ALI Certification can provide. Investing in certified equipment is the simplest way to reduce risk and ensure long-term, reliable operation in your alignment bay.
Protect your people, your property, and your business. Shop our selection of ALI Certified Lifts for maximum peace of mind at Global Garage Supplies today.