Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Fix System Problems

Nov. 5, 2019

Develop a way to report system problems and for maintenance to take corrective action

Jim responds to a trouble call, and:

The operator isn't there to describe the problem.
Parts are still on the machine and he must move them to run diagnostics.
Boxes are blocking the branch circuit panel.
A test point requires Jim to climb a ladder, so he spends 20 minutes finding one.
Jim identifies a bad module and a blown fuse.
Jim visits the stockroom for replacement parts. The first module has corrosion, so he has the attendant get another.
Jim returns from the stockroom to find his ladder has been taken. But he needs it to install the fuse.
After fifteen minutes, Jim returns with the ladder. Before installing the fuse, he tests it with his DMM. The fuse is blown.
Jim returns from the stockroom with a fuse he tested there before leaving. His ladder is gone.
Jim returns with a ladder, a chain, and a padlock. This took him “only” half an hour.

These kinds of system problems, if not addressed, will dog future repairs. Repair techs encounter system problems all the time. Do you have a means for them to report these and for maintenance to take corrective action?

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.