Electric Vehicle Safety Training
Electric Vehicle Safety Training
New vehicles mean new safety risks and regulations. Are you ready?
Transportation is evolving with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), and the way to interact with these new vehicles safely is different from what we’ve been used to for over a century. Just as we needed to learn how to safely operate and work in, on, and around fossil fuel-powered vehicles with an internal combustion engine, the same is true for high-voltage EVs. DEKRA is a leading provider of EV safety training and can equip your employees with the knowledge to safely work on and around high-voltage systems to mitigate accidents, injuries, and fatalities, ensuring a safer work environment.
EVs of all types—not just autos—are poised to become the norm, from fleets to heavy equipment to RVs, agricultural vehicles, watercraft, and emergency vehicles. EV safety must be part of everyone’s practical knowledge, and companies must align with industry trends and government regulations to stay competitive and compliant.
What’s fueling the transition?
There is a confluence of factors driving the transition to electric vehicles or alternative fuel vehicles. These include advancements in battery technology, consumer demand, government incentives, and industry buy-in.
On the government side, the EU, UK, and US have implemented several initiatives to promote EV adoption. They have set ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and announced plans with target dates to ban the sale of new gas and diesel cars. Additionally, they offer financial incentives to encourage EV adoption and are making significant investments in EV charging infrastructure.
Automakers are investing heavily in EV technology, driven by several key advancements and trends. Improved battery technology is leading to longer ranges and shorter charging times. Additionally, the cost of EV batteries—and consequently, EVs themselves—has been decreasing. Corporations are also prioritizing fleet electrification to enhance sustainability efforts.
Why is EV safety training important?
High-voltage systems in EVs may pose risks to users and those around the vehicles, even if they are not directly working on or repairing them. Other risks can include dangers from electrical shock, fire hazards, chemical exposure, and stranded energy. Vehicle involved in a collision or exposed to flood waters may increase the risk of shock or short circuits.
The importance of EV safety training for emergency responders cannot be overstated. These professionals need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle incidents involving EVs safely.
The regulatory environment is a factor as well. The regulatory requirements for electric vehicles (EVs) vary, but they generally focus on ensuring safety, environmental protection, and compliance with industry standards. Several regulatory bodies have established guidelines, rules, and regulations, including OSHA, EPA, NFPA 70E, DOT, NHTSA, ISO, and individual states and localities.
Who can benefit from EV safety training?
Safety training is imperative for EV service technicians. Beyond technicians, this training is important for:
- Automotive manufacturers, battery recyclers, EV device manufacturers, and suppliers
- People operating, selling, or renting EVs
- Managers, supervisors, office staff, and support personnel in service and collision repair facilities
- Insurers, who need to understand how to handle customer inquiries related to hybrid and EV accidents
- First responders, including law enforcement, EMS personnel, and firefighters, who need the knowledge and tools to safely address incidents involving electric and hybrid vehicles.
DEKRA’s training includes awareness-level training for first responders, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to respond safely to incidents involving hybrid and electric vehicles.
We offer various learning options to fit your needs and learners. Whether you prefer e-learning or an immersive 2-day, instructor-led workshop, we offer comprehensive training.
e-Learning
- Online training, on demand
- 60 competency modules
- Flexible subscription-based model
- Interactive format
- Available in English, Spanish, Italian, and German
- Access to a database of manufacturer information for all EVs
Meet the EV future—and the here and now—with safety and confidence.
DEKRA stands at the intersection of EVs and safety, actively participating in various aspects of the EV industry. DEKRA follows guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association. We specialize in EV certification, charging station, and infrastructure testing at our state-of-the-art Vehicle Grid Innovation Laboratory (ViGIL), and EV cybersecurity. As a leading global safety expert, DEKRA is your trusted partner in preparing your workforce with top-quality training. Our training programs ensure your employees are protected from harm, your workplace remains safe and compliant, and your business stays competitive as the future of mobility continues to evolve.