Best Practices for Equipment Managers
Equipment breakdowns can feel like a nuisance for any thriving or growing business. We rely on machinery to meet goals, drive sales, and boost productivity. Yet, when breakdowns or failures do occur, this can easily translate into lost time, high expenses, and even potential injuries. By incorporating the below components into regular rotation, you can help maintain “healthy” machinery and keep equipment repairs at a low.
Take Preventative Measures
Preventative care for machinery is essential and should be on the radar of every equipment manager. By utilizing a resource such as PM, you take preventative measures against potential breakdowns, malfunctions, or lost production time– all of which directly impact sales and your operation. Not to mention, a good PM program increases the longevity of your equipment and adds resale value in the future.
Technology Has Advanced… and So Have Repairs
Technology has come a long way as pertains to efficiency and productivity. But as machinery has become more complex, so have their solutions. With this in mind, it’s pertinent that operator and service technicians are properly trained to ensure they can detect, spot, and handle malfunctions or wear and tear on machinery when they first appear. It’s also prudent they feel comfortable addressing and handling such problems. This ensures they can be addressed head-on and before they require further maintenance.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
A good PM program and trained service technicians can put you ahead of the game when it comes to managing a fleet of machinery. However, equipment managers should also thoroughly follow the recommendations set forth by equipment manufacturers. Climate, location, and even usage can affect how your machinery responds over time. This means in some cases, special precautions should be made.
For example, air filters may need to be regularly replaced in harsher environments to continue operating efficiently. Or, you may need to seek out additional inspections for undercarriages that are heavily exposed to corrosive or abrasive soils. When you understand how specific environmental aspects affect your machinery, you reduce wear and tear and prevent further damage.
Telematics Data IS Useful
Telematics systems can help detect and pinpoint potential problems before they occur. This allows for the fleet manager to be alerted, appropriate parts to be ordered, and for scheduled repairs to take place– all without a disruption in the workflow or using unscheduled time for maintenance.
Clean Components and Clean Oil
More than half of equipment failures are due to fluid contamination. By protecting your machinery with clean fluids and utilizing proper lubricants, you keep your operating system running smoothly and maximize the life span of your machinery components.
For Equipment Managers
As an equipment manager, look towards the future and ensure proper systems are in place to limit downtime, costly repairs, or even possible injuries. Consider which PM program(s) are best for your business, consider environmental factors that could affect your machinery, ensure technicians are trained to handle machinery repairs, and fuel up with clean oil. These components can help your business foresee high productivity rates and well-maintained machinery that will get the job done.