Gligatron/iStock/Getty Images Plus
950638124
950638124
950638124
950638124
950638124

When Maintenance Does More Harm Than Good

Jan. 15, 2019
Identify the maintenance errors at your facility and train them out of existence

Various published studies over the years have shown that many failures are directly attributable to human errors in maintenance. Eliminating maintenance would eliminate these errors, but of course you’d be in a much worse situation by taking that approach.

The solution is to identify the maintenance errors at your facility and train them out of existence. You could begin with some basics, just to get things rolling:

  • Wipe the grease fitting clean before greasing the motor.
  • Don’t mix greases; confirm the correct lubricant beforehand.
  • In a bolted connection, replace locking hardware rather than re-use it.
  • If vibration readings are high, determine why. Simply tightening the mounting bolts will usually exacerbate the problem.
  • Replace equipment covers completely, taking care not to damage gaskets. Tighten screws or bolts in a standard torqueing pattern to prevent bending the cover.

Rather than wait for equipment failures to happen so you can analyze them, carefully analyze the execution of the maintenance practices. This will require physically going with a maintenance person to observe the process.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Don't Let Burn-Through Threaten Another Data Center or Utility Project

Get the No Burn-Through Elbow eGuide to learn many reasons why Champion Fiberglass elbows will enhance your data center and utility projects today.

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.