Discover and Leverage Helpful Sources for Up-To-Date Human Resources, Labor, and Safety Information and Tools 

from the Howco Human Resources Department 

The car wash operator manages a multi-faceted operation beyond the core function of washing cars. When they require insight and assistance with the business aspects of human resources, including legal compliance, training, and safety, there are many up-to-date resources to which they can turn.  Many of these resources can be found on the websites of law firms, state chambers of commerce, employer associations, government organizations, safety companies, HRIS (human resources information system)/payroll companies, and the preeminent HR resource, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). 

Howco car wash vendors such as Grainger Industrial Supply and Ver-Tech Labs also offer terrific information on many safety topics. Additionally, Howco chemical and equipment representatives are excellent resources for ongoing safety updates from each vendor. 

Many of the resources mentioned herein offer webinars and email newsletters covering their areas of expertise, including wages, overtime, recruiting, health and safety matters, OSHA dealings, employee harassment, terminations, benefits, non-compete agreements, and every other aspect of HR, legal compliance, and employment practices. Some of these offerings are free, some require memberships, and others from sources such as law firms or payroll companies may carry a participation fee for non-clients. 

We have found SHRM to be a fantastic resource on many HR topics. Members have access to downloadable tools and templates, how-to guides, and expert advice via phone, online chat, and email. Compliance resources also help members stay up to date on state and federal issues.  

Additionally, depending on a client’s contract, HRIS/payroll software companies may supply HR/Payroll consulting services and back-office support.  Examples of companies providing varying levels of service include ADP, Paychex, Paylocity, Paycom, Paycor, and UKG.  There may also be a local payroll/HR service that specializes in smaller companies, so car wash operators should inquire within their community. 

For those looking to expand their business skills, LinkedIn Learning offers a diverse range of classes that can be completed online at one’s own pace. 

As a car wash business grows, an operator may find it worthwhile to hire a human resources consultant for a few hours per week until the business level demands more time. 

Following are links to several resources for more information:  

• <a href="https://www.shrm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)</a>&nbsp;

• <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LinkedIn Learning</a>&nbsp;

• <a href="https://www.fisherphillips.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fisher Phillips law firm</a>&nbsp;

• <a href="https://ogletree.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ogletree Deakins law firm</a>&nbsp;

• <a href="https://ogletree.com/%22%20%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://www.littler.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Littler law firm</a>&nbsp;

• <a href="https://trustmineral.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mineral® HR and Compliance services and platform</a>&nbsp;

Also check within your state to connect with appropriate chambers of commerce, employer associations, and retail merchant associations. These typically have excellent resource libraries available at little or no cost. 

In summary, managing a car wash business involves more than just the day-to-day operations; it requires a strategic approach to human resources, legal compliance, training, and safety. By leveraging a variety of resources—from SHRM and industry suppliers to law firms and HRIS/payroll companies—operators can access the tools, guidance, and support needed to navigate these complexities. As your business grows, investing in HR consulting and continued education can further enhance your operational effectiveness and ensure the business remains compliant and competitive.  

We hope you find these resources useful and encourage you to share your successes with us.