AASP-MN News May 2014

May 2014

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AASP News2 May 2014


AASP News May 2014 3AASP News May 2014 3

CONTENTSVol. 22 No. 5

AASP of Minnesota is an association of independ-ently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicatedto improving the state’s auto-motive service industry andthe success of its members.

AASP News is the official publication of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota, Inc. 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102 • Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 •Fax: 612-623-1122 email: [email protected] • website: aaspmn.org. All rights reserved. To keep its readers better informed, AASP News allows its columnists to fully express theiropinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Cover photos by Alicia Figurelli.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June 17, 201420th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing

3M’s Tartan ParkLake Elmo, MN

For info: Contact AASP-MN at 612-623-1110 or 800-852-9071

AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS 2014 - 2015

PRESIDENTJerald Stiele

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTDan Sjolseth, AAM

SECRETARY-TREASURER Tom Gleason

COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTORJoyce Weinhandl

MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTORGreg Kasel, AAM

ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTORKevin Martin

COLLISION SEATMike Cox, AAMJim Siegfried, AAM

MECHANICAL SEATWayne Watson

STAFFEXECUTIVE DIRECTORJudell Anderson, CAE, AAM

OFFICE ADMINISTRATORJodi Pillsbury

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATORTom Kluver

PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc.244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110PHONE: 973-667-6922 • FAX: 973-235-1963ADVERTISING: 800-991-1995 • [email protected]

PUBLISHER: Thomas Greco ([email protected])ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Norman Morano ([email protected])MANAGING EDITOR: Alicia Figurelli ([email protected])EDITOR: Joel Gausten ([email protected])ART DIRECTOR: Lea Velocci ([email protected])OFFICE MANAGER: Sofia Cabrera ([email protected])

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MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE ............................................4Bring On the Spring!by Greg Kasel, AAM, Mechanical Division Director

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE............................................................................5AASP-MN Anti-Mandate Bill Hits Roadblockby Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist

20TH ANNUAL AASP-MN GOLF OUTING REGISTRATION ..................................7

LOCAL NEWS ....................................................................................8

MEET THE MEMBER ............................................................................11Joyce Weinhandl, Twin City Auto Body

2014 AASP-MN ANNUAL MEETING & CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS ........................14

COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.) ............17What’s That You Say? Noise, Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Hearing Protectionby Janet L. Keyes, CIH, C.H.E.S.S., Inc.

INSURANCE I.Q. ..................................................................................19Employment Practice Liability Claims and the Economyby Craig Wengerd, CBIZ Risk and Consulting

CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP!............................................................22CBIZ Payroll

ADVERTISER’S INDEX

aaa Auto Salvage ............................6AmeriPride ....................................19Buerkle Hyundai ............................10Inver Grove Honda / Inver Grove Toyota ..20Jack McClard ................................6Keystone ........................................9Maplewood Toyota ........................18Meadowbrook Insurance ................15Mills Parts Center ..........................4Morrie’s ..........................................21Motorwerks BMW ..........................IBC

Motorwerks Mini ............................IBCMPA ............................................................12-13NAPA..............................................5PAM’s Auto ....................................16PPG ......................................................OBCProven Force........................................18Rosedale Chevrolet ........................9Roseville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram ..4Straight & Square ..........................16Toyota Group ..................................IFC


As I am writing this, snow is falling and then melting away asit hits the pavement. Along with many other people, I’m eager forspring to arrive so we can be busy.

The past few months have been a little slow for us this year,so I have been looking into ways to save some money. I have beenable to save quite a bit by utilizing United Fire Group, one of theAssociation’s preferred benefit providers, for my business insur-ance. You could possibly save money, too. It’s definitely worthlooking into and comparing rates. You can contact either CBIZ AIAor check with your local insurance agent to see if they carry UnitedFire. Either way, you could save money and support the Associationat the same time.

I am checking out credit card processing rates. I found out thatmy current contract is going to expire in a few months, so I havewritten my processor a letter indicating I may not be renewing my

WelcomesNew Members

April 2014

Bring On the

SPRING!

AASP News4 May 2014

MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTORÕS MES-

by Greg Kasel, AAM,AASP-MN Mechanical

Division Director

Benchmark AutoEden Prairie

Collision & ClassicsAmboy

Dan’s Standard ServiceMcIntosh

Dick’s NorthsideBemidji

Hohn’s Auto Body & GlassMora

NAPA Auto PartsFaribault

Noble Conservation SolutionsPlymouth

Southwest Collision & GlassHanley Falls

continued on pg. 21


AASP News May 2014 5

LEGISLATIVEUPDATE

AASP-MN ANTI-MANDATE BILL

HITS ROADBLOCK by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist

The AASP-MN legislative proposal which would have prohib-ited insurers from specifying or requiring that a repair shop utilize“specific vendors, distributors, manufacturers, suppliers, businessplatforms or internal processes in order to carry out vehicle repairsfor an insured or claimant” failed to get a hearing in either theHouse or Senate Commerce Committee this year. The bill, whichalso would have prohibited insurer steering for estimates, did notadvance due to a combination of strong insurance opposition andthe constraints of an abbreviated legislative session with tight com-mittee deadlines.

Representative Joe Atkins (DFL-Inver Grove Heights) wasChief Author of the measure and Chairs the House CommerceCommittee. He specifically asked that the bill first be heard in theSenate Committee – since he had more control of its fate in theHouse due to his position as Chairman. He wanted to be sure thatwe had support to move the bill in the Senate so that his efforts in

the House Committee would not be wasted. However, the insuranceindustry came on strong against the measure, particularly in theSenate, and we were unable to secure the required Senate hearingto advance the bill.

Insurance companies characterized the bill as eliminating di-rect repair programs and waged an all-out campaign (even contact-ing shops to provoke fear and divide the industry) to kill it.Prohibiting direct repair programs was never the intention of thebill. In fact, most AASP-MN members work hard to participate oninsurance company direct repair programs. Rather, the Associa-tion’s concern is that insurers are taking a more and more activerole in trying to dictate repair shop business practices in the contextof these programs. Too often, insurer mandates adversely affect theefficiency and profitability of the repair shop, while doing nothingto ensure the safe and proper repair of the vehicle or to enhance therepair experience of the customer. The legislation is intended to

continued on pg. 21


AASP News6 May 2014



20th Annual AASP-MN Golf Outing

Tuesday, June 17, 20143M’s Tartan Park • Lake Elmo, MN

12:00pm Shotgun StartCheck-in 11:00am - 11:30am

Four person scramble$100 per golfer / $400 per team

Fees Include:• 18 Hole Green Fees• Golf Carts• Social Hour Following Golf• Prizes• Contests

Closest to the PinLongest PuttLongest DriveAND MORE!

Exciting Contests & Great Prizes!

Teams fill up fast!

Register today!

Name: _______________________________ Company: __________________________________________Address: ________________________________________________________________________________City: ________________________________ State: ______________________________________________Phone: ______________________________ Fax: ______________________________________________Email: __________________________________________________________________________________

1st Player: _________________________ Company: ____________________________________________2nd Player: ________________________ Company: ____________________________________________3rd Player: _________________________ Company: ____________________________________________4th Player: _________________________ Company: ____________________________________________

Payment Options: _____ Check in the amount of $400 for your team or $100 per golfer, made payable to AASP-MN_____ Credit Card _____ Visa _____ MasterCard _____ Discover

Credit Card #: __________________________________________ Expires: ________________________Signature: _____________________________________________ Billing Zip Code: __________________

Return to: AASP of Minnesota, 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102, Roseville, MN 55113Phone: (612) 623-1110 • Fax: (612) 623-1122 • Email: [email protected]

AASP-MN 20th Annual Golf Outing RegistrationJune 17, 2014 • 3M’s Tartan Park


AASP News8 May 2014

LOCAL NEWS

2014 SkillsUSA Contest Winners AnnouncedThe Minnesota SkillsUSA contests for collision repair and au-

tomotive service technology were held Saturday, March 29 atDakota County Technical College in Rosemount. The competitionallows high school and college students to demonstrate their abili-ties and talents in collision repair and automotive service. AASP-MN volunteers were out in force to help plan, organize and judgethe competition.

Congratulations to the following SkillsUSA contest winners:

AUTO REFINISHING TECHNOLOGYHS Division

1st Place - Brendan Bockowitz, St. Francis HS2nd Place - Jesus Sanchez, Intermediate District 2873rd Place - Spencer Larson, Intermediate District 287

College Division1st Place - Chris Vandyken, Ridgewater College, Willmar

2nd Place - Elise Groenewold, Dakota County Technical College3rd Place - Bryton Hines, Dunwoody College of Technology

COLLISION REPAIR TECHNOLOGYHS Division

1st Place - Jesus Sanchez, Intermediate District 2872nd Place - Spencer Larson, Intermediate District 2873rd Place - Brendan Bockowitz, St. Francis HS

College Division1st Place - Elise Groenewold, Dakota County Technical College2nd Place - Aaron Duellman, Dunwoody College of Technology3rd Place - Bryton Hines, Dunwoody College of Technology

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNOLOGYHS Division

1st Place - Logan Bright, Secondary Technical Educational Program (S.T.E.P.)2nd Place - Kaleb Purdes, S.T.E.P.3rd Place - Jonathen Bilek, S.T.E.P.

College Division1st Place - Richard Frascone, Dakota County Technical College

2nd Place - Andrew Olson, Pine Technical College3rd Place - Dylan Steichen, Riverland Community College (Albert Lea)

AASP-MN Announces 20th Annual Golf OutingThe Alliance of Automotive Service Providers - Minnesota

(AASP-MN) invites all collision and mechanical industry profes-sionals to attend its 20th Annual Golf Outing, Tuesday, June 17,2014, at 3M’s Tartan Park Golf Course in Lake Elmo. Over 150AASP-MN members, employees, vendors and other industry rep-resentatives are expected to enjoy the day of golf and socializing.

Play will begin at noon, followed by a social hour, light dinnerand awards presentation. The cost to participate is $100 per golferor $400 per foursome. See page 7 for registration information. Golfholes are also available to sponsor for $300 each.

For additional information, contact the AASP-MN office at(612) 623-1110 / (800) 852-9071 or online at www.aaspmn.org.

Thank You 2014 Program & Hospitality Sponsors!

High school and college students from across Minnesota showed theirskills at the 2014 SkillsUSA statewide championships on March 29.

Program SponsorsAASP National

AkzoNobel Performance CoatingsAuto Value Parts Stores/APH

Automotive Aftermarket Industry AssociationAutoshop Solutions

Bill Smith FoundationCarbench

CARQUESTDent ImpressionsDentsmart PDR

Keystone AutomotivePPG Automotive Finishes

WorldPac

Hospitality Sponsors3M

aaa Auto PartsAAA Minnesota/Iowa

Aeromotive Services, Inc.AmeriPride Services

AudaExploreAxalta Coating Systems

BASFCBIZ AIA

CCC Information ServicesChoice Auto RentalDorman ProductsHertz Corporation

IDENTIFIXInver Grove Ford Lincoln

Keystone AutomotiveLowell’s Performance Coatings

Malco Products, Inc.Meadowbrook InsuranceMidwest Parts Advantage

Mitchell InternationalMitchell1

Noble Conservation SolutionsNorton Automotive Aftermarket

O’Reilly Auto PartsPAM’s Auto, Inc.

Pro PaintSherwin Williams

Suburban Chevrolet


AASP News10 May 2014

Products and materials in your shopcan have multiple costs. Consider paint,thinner, or cleaning solvent – first you haveto buy it, then you have to pay a hauler todispose of the waste. Later, you’ll have topay state and county annual waste fees.Even the solvents that evaporate from dry-ing paint can cost you air emission fees.

What can you do about it? Lots.First, think about which materials are

going out the back door to the trash ratherthan out the front door to a customer. Wouldyou rather see paint on masking or on a cus-tomer’s car? Minimize overspray by sendingpainters to regular refresher training. Paintingwell is a skill, and all skills can be honed, im-proved, and updated. Good painters havevalue and are worth investing in.

Consider installing an automatic gunwasher, which reduces gun cleaning solventwaste, emissions, and employee exposure.

Have parts washer solvent replacedonly when it doesn’t clean anymore. If youown your parts washer, consider adding afilter. The Iowa Waste Reduction Center hasinstructions at iwrc.org/services/resources-tools/documents. The used filter will be

hazardous waste, but the cost of filter dis-posal will be offset by what you save in sol-vent that can be used longer before beingreplaced.

Automotive fluids such as antifreezeand used oil can be recycled and reclaimed,but only as liquids – not when they aresoaked into rags or kitty litter from cleaningup drips and spills. Instead, clean up spillswith a squeegee and dustpan, and tip the liq-uid into the appropriate drum for recycling.

Next, think about delayed costs. Man-age your inventory closely – practicing“first in, first out” means fewer expiredproducts to get rid of. You are also lesslikely to order duplicates of something youalready have but couldn’t find.

Think twice before accepting samplesthat you’ll have to pay to dispose of. If youhave an air permit, talk to your paint sup-plier about low-VOC paints and thinners.Fewer emissions means smaller fees. Don’tadd regulatory fines to your list of expenses.Hazardous waste containers must be clearlylabeled with their contents and the words“hazardous waste.” Drums containing haz-ardous waste must have their snap rings or

funnels locked or bungs screwed in tight.Clearly-labeled containers also result infewer mix-ups that can lead to more expen-sive disposal.

Last, know where to get rid of things.Recycling is often cheaper than throwingsomething in the trash. Have something toget rid of but not sure what to do with it?Rethink Recycling has information onwastes and local listings at www.rethinkrecycling.com/business.

If you have items you don’t want thatsomeone else could use, such as shop prod-ucts or maybe an old desk from the front of-fice, the Minnesota Materials Exchange(www.mnexchange.org) is a great resourcefor finding someone who wants them (forfree!).

More details and information are avail-able on the MnTAP vehicle waste webpageat www.mntap.umn.edu/vehicle/waste.html,and the MPCA automotive industry web-page at www.pca.state.mn.us/pyrife8.

PARTNERS IN PREVEN-

Don’t Let Your Profits Go to “WASTE”



Please give a brief history of your career in the auto repair in-dustry.My career in the automotive industry began in 2006, when my hus-band Paul and I bought Twin City Auto Body and Northfield AutoBody. Though Paul had grown up in the industry and had workedas a tech at Twin City since 1983, I hold an undergraduate degreein nutrition and dietetics and had been pursuing diabetes researchprior to us buying the business. Paul felt I could be a valuable assetto the shop, so when my research ended in 2007, I joined him.Today, I’m the vice president of the company.

Does your experience in the healthcare field come in handy onthe shop floor?Absolutely. Having worked so closely with insurers on the health-care end, for example, working with them in the auto repair worldwas nothing new. I feel that it’s actually been an advantage; I cameinto this industry without any preconceived notions of how insurer-shop relations are supposed to work, but with the mindset thatworking with insurers is a part of doing business. I work with theinsurers and take care of that end, which allows Paul and our staffto focus on repairing the vehicles.

How long have you been a member of AASP-MN? What ini-tially inspired your shop to join the Association?We became members in 2009. It really was perfect timing; I hadtaken the first two years of my career in the shop to get acclimatedto running a repair facility, but by 2009 we both wanted to get moreinvolved in the industry. We went to an AASP-MN meeting to learnmore about the Association, and joined it shortly thereafter. Beingan AASP-MN member shop allowed us the opportunity to becomemore entrenched in the industry and network, and also gave me thechance to learn so much from fellow shop owners and colleagues.

You are currently a member of the AASP-MN Board of Direc-tors. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing theBoard and the repair industry at this time?I joined the Board in order to gain more information that can helpour shop, but also to be helpful to others and ultimately improvethe industry in whatever way I could. And AASP-MN has a greatsystem in place to keep moving the industry forward. Judell [An-derson, AASP-MN Executive Director] has been a driving force onso many of our issues. We’re currently working to receive properreimbursement on repairs, which is a goal that will only be accom-plished through educating the Legislatureas well as the insurers andrepairers on what exactly goes into a high quality repair. I also seethe increasing pressure from outside parties as a huge issue, partic-ularly in the parts procurement area. If the repairers were allowedto decide whether or not they wanted to use a particular system, orwere offered the opportunity to provide feedback and input priorto its implementation, that would allow both parties to reach a com-mon goal that services our customers’ best interests.

What do you do when you are not in the shop?Paul and I have a cabin up north that we like to spend time at withour two children. We enjoy fishing (well, Paul enjoys fishing; I goalong for the ride because I enjoy spending time with him). I am abig fan of cycling and weightlifting, to try and keep in shape. AndI’ve also recently discovered Candy Crush, which is a great gameto play on my phone to help unwind. It’s difficult to not think aboutbusiness all the time, but simple games or just taking a long bikeride works wonders to clear my head.

What do you think the secret to a good life is?Given my background, I’m a big proponent of healthy eating,healthy living and exercise. But also very important is just beinghappy! I’m always trying to find the positive in any situation andsee things as a learning experience.

Do you or your shop participate in any charitable / volunteerorganizations? I’m the treasurer for the St. Paul Lions Club, of which our shop isa member. It’s a great opportunity for community outreach, and theshop has gotten involved in some great initiatives. We help peopledo things like manage their diabetes, and have assisted in puttingon events like the club’s Waffle Breakfast.

What is the best advice you have ever received that is worthsharing?I always tell my kids, “There’s no such thing as ‘can’t’.” Again, it’sall about being optimistic and seeing the silver lining all the time.Not everything will go as planned, and not everything will workout, but everything is a learning experience that helps you improveyourself in the long run.

MEET THE?MEMBER

JOYCE WEINHANDLVice President, Twin City Auto Body

(Bloomington, MN);AASP-MN Member Since: 2009



On Thursday and Friday, April 10 - 11, hundredsof AASP-MN members and supporters weretreated to industry-leading training, valuableassociation updates and exciting social andnetworking opportunities at the Association’s

2014 Annual Meeting & Convention. The Holiday Inn St. PaulEast was the setting for two days packed with inspiration, ed-ucation and much more, providing something for everyone inthe Minnesota auto repair industry.

Kicking off the event, the Peer-to-Peer Networking &Roundtable Extravaganza offered attendees the chance to shareideas, ask questions and gain insight from fellow AASP-MNmembers. In half-hour-long increments, attendees sat and dis-cussed specific business topics facilitated by AASP-MN mem-bers (“The Best Thing You Ever Did in Business,” DanSjolseth; “Finding & Keeping Employees,” Joyce Weinhandland Wayne Watson; “Marketing Tips,” Mike Cox and TomGleason; “Biggest Mistake You Ever Made in Business,” ScottMcClure and John Ritter, Jr.), rotating when their time was up.Following their time at the roundtables was an exciting “speednetworking” session, where participants were afforded the op-portunity to meet and chat with each other in three-minute ses-sions before rotating to the next.

Throughout the two days of the Convention, AASP-MNprovided many unique opportunities for attendees to brush upon a number of critical business skills and processes. MargieSeyfer (Impact Presentations) explored the importance of

effective customer service in “Lip Service: First Class Tele-phone Skills” and “Selling From the Inside Out,” while Au-toshop Solutions’ Danny Sanchez discussed tips and tricks forpractical marketing for the 21st century in “Ignite the Internet”and “Start Your Marketing Machine!” John Branstad of Lead-ership by Design helped attendees set their goals for the futurein “Taking Charge of Your Life and Business,” while LarryMersereau (Promo Power) gave an in-depth look at brandingand relationship building with “Stand Out! Differentiate orDisappear.”

Attendees looking for technical training at the 2014 Con-vention were not disappointed, with several courses tailoredexclusively to the repair process itself. I-CAR’s Mitch Beckerwas once again on hand to present “Vehicle Technology &Trends 2014,” which focused on evolutions in vehicle designand features that technicians must familiarize themselves withfor continued success in the industry, while Craig Totten (CarBench/Infinity Laser Measuring) discussed equipment require-ments and handling of the various new materials and structuresbeing used in the design of today’s vehicles in “Structural Re-pairs & New Vehicle Design.” Jerry Baarson of CARQUEST(“Advanced Technology Vehicles: Service & Maintenance”)guided mechanical attendees through the ins and outs of spe-cialized hybrid vehicles on the road today, while Jeff Master-man of Standard Motor Products hosted a workshop on theintricacies and power of lab scope tools in repair through“Practical Lab Scope Use and Setup.”


While being able to perform asafe, quality repair should of course beany shop owner’s top priority, he or shemust also stay abreast of current indus-try trends and practices to remain suc-cessful. With this in mind, AASP-MNprovided a series of managerial trainingopportunities to attendees. Renownedindustry presenter Tim Ronak (Ak-zoNobel) did double-duty at this year’sConvention, with “Collision CenterParts Management” and “Competing ina Consolidated Marketplace,” whilePPG’s Mark Mueller invited attendeesto learn more about the blueprintingprocess in “X-Ray Estimating: An AceUp Your Sleeve for Performance Im-provement.” AAIA’s Scott Luckett gavean eye-opening look at the evolution oftelematics technology and implementa-tion in “Aftermarket Tele- matics: Sep-arating Fact From Fiction.”

As is always the case with the As-sociaton’s Annual Meeting & Conven-tion, AASP-MN offered attendees agreat time both in and outside the sem-inar rooms. This year’s Happy Hour &Vendor Showcase offered a chance forattendees and vendors alike to previewproducts and services, socialize andtalk shop in a friendly, informal envi-ronment…made all the more excitingby the Bloody Mary bar, sponsored byPro Paint Metro! Immediately follow-ing the Vendor Showcase, attendeestried their hand at Black Jack,Caribbean Stud, 3- and 4-card Poker,Let it Ride and more at AASP-MN’sIndustry Reunion and Casino Royaleon Friday evening. Joined by their fam-ilies and friends, industry membersgambled the night away with “casinomoney” that was later used to bid ongreat prizes including I-CAR classes,Minnesota Twins baseball tickets, giftcards and much more.

On April 11, AASP-MN’s AnnualMeeting luncheon featured addressesby Association Executive DirectorJudell Anderson, Lobbyist Kevin Walliand Outgoing President Dan Sjolseth,who showcased AASP-MN’s activity

throughout the past year, while Incom-ing President Jerald Stiele spoke aboutits plans for the future. A number ofspecial members were also acknowl-edged for their roles in supporting themission of the Association, includingoutgoing Board members John RitterJr. and Scott McClure, and RogerBonn, who received the 2014 AASP-

MN “Member Recruiter of the Year”award. Tom Gleason and Mike Coxwere also recognized for their work asMechanical and Collision Division Di-rector, respectively.

Following a poignant introductionby former Board member Bob Pearson,speaker SSG John Kriesel delivered anincredibly inspirational keynote on the


AASP-MN ANNUAL MEETING & CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

continued on pg. 20


COMPLETE HEALTH, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY SERVICES (C.H.E.S.S.)

How noisy is your shop? Do you ever have to wait for an em-ployee to put down a tool before you talk to him? Ever want tocover your ears when someone’s using a pneumatic grinder orwrench? If you need to raise your voice to talk to someone an arm’slength away, it’s loud enough to damage hearing.

Noise-induced hearing loss is cumulative. Both the intensityand the duration of the noise damage hearing. Your ears can usuallytolerate a few minutes of firecrackers on the Fourth of July, becausethat’s a rare, short-duration event. But repeated exposure damagesthe specialized nerve cells deep in your inner ear, the cells thattransmit sound waves to your brain.

People repairing cars don’t do the same task over and over.They might use an air wrench to loosen some bolts, do some sand-ing or apply body filler. Unlike folks who work in a factory, theirtasks vary from minute to minute, and their noise exposure doeslikewise. We know that they do some jobs that are loud enough todamage their hearing. But do they do those jobs for long enoughto damage their hearing?

Probably, yes. Not every day, but often enough that youshouldn’t ignore the noise hazard.

Not convinced that your shop is loud? There are two quick andcheap ways to check. That rule of thumb mentioned above, that it’sover 85 dBA if you need to shout from arm’s length to talk to some-one, is a proven way to tell. And there are many smart phone appsfor sound level meters. They’re not all that accurate, but they should

give you a ballpark idea of how loud your shop is. So what do you need to do about the noise? You have to do

more than just provide a box of ear plugs. The best action wouldbe to reduce noise levels. Require employees to keep their tools ingood working condition. Reward employees for choosing tools thathave built-in noise controls. If you purchase equipment (vacuums,for instance), choose quieter ones. Put up noise-absorbing panels.Those measures will help, but we doubt that they will be enoughto keep exposure below 85 dBA every day.

OSHA says that if employees are exposed to more than 85 dBAaveraged over eight hours, the employer needs to take steps to tryto control the noise exposure: Provide hearing protection, train onthe hazards of noise, provide hearing tests each year. There’s a goodchance your employees are not exposed to that much noise everyday. But there’s also a good chance that they’re sometimes exposedto that much noise.

You need to provide hearing protection – ear plugs or earmuffs. You can choose what types, but you need to provide morethan one option. We recommend a choice of ear muffs, push-inplugs and roll-up plugs. No one type of ear plug will fit everyonecomfortably.

Hearing protection devices are assigned Noise Reduction Rat-ings (NRR, laboratory measurements of how much they’ll reducenoise). In real life, no muffs or plugs will always achieve that muchreduction. Use the NRR as a rough guide, but don’t rely on the NRRalone to choose what hearing protection you’ll stock. Whether thedevices are worn correctly and when they’re needed is much moreimportant than the NRR.

Employees need to be trained on the hazards of noise and onhow to wear hearing protection correctly. Don’t underestimate theneed to train people on how to wear ear plugs or ear muffs. Earplugs are often not inserted deeply enough to effectively blocknoise. Ear muffs don’t do a good job if they can’t form a seal aroundthe ear. We’ve seen many with damaged cushions; those won’t beas effective.

You should be providing annual hearing tests (audiometricexams) to employees whose eight-hour work exposure may goabove 85 dBA. Employees should get a baseline test within sixmonths of being hired, and they should be re-tested each year. Thehearing tests will help you determine if your employees are beingadequately protected from noise. They’ll also alert both you andthe employee if the employee’s hearing is beginning to deteriorate.

WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY? Noise, Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Hearing Protection

By Janet L. Keyes, CIH, CHESS, Inc.

If you need to raiseyour voice to talk to

someone anarm’s length away, it’s loud enough to damage hearing.


continued on pg. 20


Given the current economic climate,layoffs and reductions in workforce havecaused a significant number of age discrim-ination claims filed against employers. Em-ployee wages and benefits account for oneof the largest expense items employershave, so while reducing staff may be one ofthe quickest ways to cut expenses, it mayalso result in costly age discriminationclaims.

According to the most recent U.S.Equal Employment Opportunity Commis-sion (EEOC) statistics (2012), age discrim-ination claims account for 23 percent of allclaims filed. The total number of age dis-crimination claims in 2012 was 22,857,down slightly from the record 24,582 in2008. Adding to this is recent court rulingsmaking it easier for plaintiffs to file thesetypes of claims. All indicators point to moreemployment practices litigation in 2014 andbeyond.

The Age Discrimination in Employ-ment Act protects workers 40 years of ageor older from discrimination based on age.Older workers often earn more thanyounger ones, which may contribute to thedecision to let the older workers go. Whilethe intent may not be to discriminate, thisdoes not prohibit the plaintiffs’ bar and in-dividual claimants from targeting firms whohave had recent layoffs or reductions inworkforce. Even the best of intentions, in-cluding severance and outplacement, maynot be enough to prevent lawsuits. Whilemost economists predict the worst may bebehind us and that the economy is stabiliz-ing, lawsuits often lag several months afteremployer decisions are made, so employersare not out of the woods yet for decisionsmade several years ago.

One other key factor in the equation isthe Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, whicheliminates the statute of limitations for fil-ing discrimination claims. This essentiallyeases the burden on the plaintiff with re-spect to an allegation when age discrimina-tion is involved. While the employer may

ultimately prevail, significant defense costscan be accumulated in defending the alle-gation.

Age discrimination is not the only typeof employment practice litigation on therise. According to the 2012 EEOC statistics,sex discrimination (sexual harassment, sex-ual orientation, transgendered status, genderbased discrimination) charges were up 6.3percent, disability discrimination chargeswere up just under three percent and retali-ation claims (all statutes) are up just undertwo percent. As a result of the increase inclaims, we have seen a tightening in themarket, which would include, among otherthings: More stringent underwriting prac-tices, lower limits, higher retentions andhigher pricing. That being said, the market

is always more favorable both in terms ofcoverage and price when coverage is pur-chased prior to any claim activity.

For companies that have had, or mayplan, a reduction in workforce – or do notcurrently carry employment practices liabil-ity coverage – strong consideration shouldbe given to purchasing the insurance to mit-igate the ultimate impact on the corporatebalance sheet. In the event of an allegationor claim, defense costs alone could poten-tially run in the low- to mid-six figures.

If you have questions or would like fur-ther information on Employment PracticesLiability Coverage, please contact DennisSpindler at 763-549-2238.

AASP News May 2014 19AASP News May 2014 19

INSURANCE I.Q.

Employment Practice Liability Claimsand the Economy

by Craig Wengerd, CBIZ Risk and Consulting



That allows both of you to take corrective action before the hear-ing loss becomes worse.

Hearing tests can be done by occupational health clinics orby mobile services, facilities that come to your workplace to testemployee hearing. If you use the same testing service each year,the company can interpret the results and let you know if anyemployee shows significant changes in hearing ability.

Most of us have some noise-induced hearing loss, the resultof work as well as the rock concerts, snowmobiling, car races ornight clubs we’ve enjoyed. Noise doesn’t seem like a big dealwhen you’re young. But as hearing gets worse, you start missingout on conversations because you can’t hear clearly. Music does-n’t sound the same. As an employer, you can’t protect your em-ployees from loud noise outside of work. But you can protectthem from hearing loss because of work.

If you have questions about evaluating your shop’s noiseexposure, use of hearing protection, hearing conservation pro-grams, audiometric testing or other safety or environmental is-sues, contact CHESS at (651) 481-9787; toll free at (877)482-4377 or [email protected]. CHESS specializes inhelping small- to medium-sized business with occupationalhealth and safety issues. We have been providing services to theautomotive industry for over 20 years.

(C.H.E.S.S.)

continued from pg. 17

AASP-MN ANNUAL MEETING & CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

power of positive thinking. While on patrol in Iraq in 2006,Kriesel was nearly blown to shreds by a roadside bomb; two ofhis close friends were killed in the blast, while Kriesel lost bothlegs and suffered numerous other injuries as a result of thebombing. Less than a decade since the explosion that nearlytook his life, Kriesel stands today - both literally and figura-tively - as an award-winning author, a former member of theMinnesota House of Representatives, director of veterans’ af-fairs for Anoka County, MN and motivational speaker. His mes-sage to luncheon attendees was emotional, gripping, andsimple: At some point, you will face hardship of some kind -and you can deal with it.

AASP-MN would like to thank the numerous sponsors andsupporters whose generosity made the 2014 Annual Meeting &Convention possible, as well as the vendors and attendeeswhose presence made this year’s event unforgettable. For moreinformation on upcoming Association events, please visitwww.aaspmn.org.




bring about a more balanced approach and re-store shop owners’ control over their own busi-ness relationships and practices.

AASP-MN intends to continue workingon this issue. Our next steps will be to reviewour proposal through our own Committeeprocess and then reach out to the insurance in-dustry for an “off the record” debate of themerits of our proposal.

Members are encouraged to monitor theAssociation’s work on this matter and offeryour comments and questions along the way.We hope to have a new and improved versionof our bill by late summer or early fall so thatwe can spend time with legislators well in ad-vance of the 2015 Session. In order to succeedon this issue, we will need repair shops allacross the state to weigh in with their Repre-sentatives and Senators – and AASP-MN willprovide the information you need to make thecase.

LEGISLATIVEUPDATE

contract and will be checking into other op-tions. I will be comparing rates with AASP-MN’s preferred benefit provider for credit cardprocessing, Association BankCard Services.The company’s representative, Mac Hardin,will be able to provide me with a detailed com-parison and give me an apples-to-apples ratereview.

AASP-MN encourages each member tofill out its Shop Profile on the Association’swebsite. The more we know about you, the bet-ter! Members can do a search to see if anothermember has the type of equipment they maybe thinking of purchasing, or use a type ofservice that they are considering, etc. I thinkthe most useful thing will be to see if anothermember shop owns a particular factory scantool and can do programming. That way, I cansupport fellow members and keep the businessin our local area, rather than sending customersto a dealer.

If you ever have any questions or sugges-tions, please do not hesitate to call the AASP-MN office.

Have a great Spring!

MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE





CBIZ Payroll is the recommended vendor for payroll, time-keeping, 401(k), COBRA, Flex and HR solutions for members ofAASP-MN. We have designed a program specifically for membersof the Association, which includes:

• 20% discount off of our standard services pricing. This discount applies for all CBIZ payroll products and services except 401(k). The discount is effective as long as you’re a member of AASP-MN - this is not a limited time offer.

• Plus, Special Introductory Offer: Switch prior to June 30, 2014 and your first MONTH of payroll processing with CBIZ is free! (Excludes delivery)

We offer the following products and services:

• Payroll: Our payroll services are focused on providing you the highest quality service at a fair price. We’re competitive with all of the major processors and usually can find ways to create additional efficiencies by integrating with your current systems.

• Timekeeping:We have a variety of web-based timekeeping options to choose from that will save you time and ensure the accuracy of your hourly employees’ timecards. The systems also provide a robust time-off tracking and request system that helps you monitor and approve absences.

• 401(k): Our most popular 401(k) platform is fully integrated with payroll and has no administrative fees. We also have a wide array of full service offerings for larger plans.

• COBRA and Flex: The Affordable Care Act has made reporting and pretax plans very complicated. We have the knowledge and services to create programs that keep you compliant.• HR Solutions:We have a variety of options to meet your needs, including a robust web-based HR Resource Center that comes with four hours of HR Hotline to full-blown HR Consulting. We also have a robust HR Management System which if fully integrated with payroll.

For more information, please contact Bob Willbanks at (612)298-1176 or [email protected].

Cash in on Your Member-

CBIZ Payroll

WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCEMeadowbrook Insurance GroupContact: Scott Murphy763-549-2243 / [email protected] scheduled credit makes Meadowbrook oneof the most competitive programs around for Worker‘sCompensation insurance. In addition, members areeligible to receive an annual dividend based on thegroup’s loss ratio. For more information, log on towww.wcpolicy.com/aaspmn.

PROPERTY/LIABILITY INSURANCECBIZ AIAContact: Dennis Spindler763-549-2238 / [email protected] AIA will present AASP-MN members with quotesfrom multiple carriers for property/liability insurance andmembers can choose the program that best fits their sit-uation. As an added bonus, CBIZ AIA will offer membersan exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability in-surance premiums.

UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIESAmeriPride ServicesContact: Jim Dillon651-955-1398 • Fax: 952-738-3318 [email protected] pricing to members on rental of uniforms,entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Purchases are also dis-counted. Members receive annual rebate equal to10% of their business with AmeriPride each year.

CREDIT CARD PROCESSINGAssociation BankCard ServicesContact: Mac Hardin952-933-2026 • Fax: 952-933-4595 [email protected] rates for AASP-MN members. Terminalsand printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipmentis also available.

INDUSTRIAL & PAPER PRODUCTSWipers & Wipes, Inc.Contact: Dennis JulsonPhone: 651-486-4866 Fax: 651-486-4859 Discounts on industrial supplies and paper products.Free, next-day delivery is available in the metro area.Shipping free to outstate members with $100 pur-chase.

LEGAL CONSULTATIONFryberger, Buchanan, Smith & FrederickPhone: 800-496-6789 Fax: 218-725-6800Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assess-ment and consultation (some restrictions apply) withan attorney who specializes in the area of law that isthe subject of the call.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINEIDENTIFIXPhone: 800-288-6220 Fax: 651-633-2188Members enjoy discounted prices on the industry’s#1 technical information hotline. One free call is ex-tended to all first-time AASP-MN member callers.

REPLACEMENT PARTSDorman ProductsPhone: 800-868-5777, ext. 5329Website: www.dormanproducts.comAASP members receive insider information, specialaccess and other perks from Dorman Products, aleading supplier of dealer “exclusive” automotive re-placement parts.

BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARSAASP-MNContact: Jodi PillsburyPhone: 612-623-1110 or toll free 800-852-9071 Fax: 612-623-1122 / [email protected] rate on printed business forms and calen-dars.

SHOP SERVICESSummit Software & Mobile SolutionsContact: Frank Terlep 888-377-2661 /[email protected]. Website: www.emarketingsherpas.comAASP members receive a $50 discount on their an-nual e-Marketplace subscription, a digital marketingsystem that includes mobile phone apps and a com-plete customer service, sales, marketing, advertisingand communication platform.

INFORMATION PROVIDERSMitchell1Contact: Mitchell1 RepresentativePhone: 888-724-6742 x 6986AASP members are eligible for special Mitchell 1 infor-mation and management programs at significant dis-counts. For more information, log onto www.mitchell1.comor contact the Mitchell 1 representative at 888-724-6742,X6986.

Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative Phone: 800-238-9111AASP members receive a 15% discount on any MitchellRepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visithttp://repaircenter.mitchell.com/Catalog/OEMRepair.aspx for more information.

PAYROLL PROCESSINGCBIZ PayrollContact: Bob Willbanks612-298-1176 / [email protected] receive 20% discount off standard payrollproducts and services (excluding 401k). Members whoswitch prior to June 30 will receive first month of payrollprocessing free.

CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICESCertegy Check ServicesContact: Heather Ellis952-240-5017 / [email protected] rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments.

MANAGEMENT SYSTEMSShop-Probe Auto Body Management System800-524-8104 / www.shopprobe.comShop-Probe is one of the most user-friendly and afford-able collision management systems on the market today.The system interfaces with every major estimating sys-tem as well as the QuickBooks accounting system.Shop-Probe’s excellent customer support and personalattention to detail is what sets it apart from the compe-tition. AASP members receive a 10% discount off theprice of the management system and any add-on prod-ucts. Call for more information.

BUSINESS COACHING180BIZ540-833-2014 / [email protected]: www.180biz.com180BIZ offers BUSINESS COACHING to AASP mem-bers at a steep 20% discount! One Eighty Business So-lutions LLC (180BIZ) has been helping shop ownersincrease profits and car count while decreasing stresssince 2003. AASP members receive a discount on veryaffordable one-on-one coaching plans without long-term commitments and complicated contracts. 180BIZoffiers a risk-free trial of their services. To learn more,please call or email us, or visit our website.

WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONSNet DrivenContact: Jon Napoli218-623-7351 / 218-310-7285Net Driven is a market leader in website and internetmarketing solutions designed exclusively for the auto-motive industry. Net Driven assists independent tire andautomotive industry dealers who are looking to increaserevenue by selling more tires, service, and wheels.AASP-MN members who choose Net Driven are eligiblefor a $500 discount off their 1st year setup fees. Formore information, contact Jon Napoli.

AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS


AASP-MN News May 2014

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Transcript of AASP-MN News May 2014