You may not think of regular machine maintenance as an investment, but it's just as important as the purchase of the machinery itself. A machine maintenance worker is the first line of defense in keeping your machinery safe and operational. Malfunctioning machinery can cost the company time and money when the whole production line stops due to one failed part. Poorly maintained equipment may put your personnel in danger.

Machining maintenance can involve cleaning and lubricating parts to keep the machines humming. Maintenance personnel may also perform diagnostics, checking performance and testing parts for damage and referring problems for repair service.

When you're deciding how to maintain your equipment, think about these points:

1. Weigh the costs of hiring a permanent industrial maintenance person versus using an outside company. If you have many machines, it's often more cost-effective to have a full-time staff member.

2. Be sure to consider safety measures when maintaining the equipment.

3. Make sure that the technician has adequate training for machine maintenance and understands your particular machinery.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Keep your machines running by hiring a machine maintenance worker

A permanent machine maintenance worker can help you by regularly servicing your machinery. They are also immediately available to service a machine, should there be a problem. While on-the-job training will be necessary, it can benefit your workers to have outside training as well.

I recommend: Labor-All provides skilled labor for your workforce, including machine maintenance jobs. You can provide online training for your workers through Coastal Skills.

Get longevity from your machinery with proper machine maintenance

Your machinery will last longer when you maintain it properly. If you can get a few more years from your machinery, the better for your business. Using an outside company to maintain your equipment is one good way to protect your investment.

I recommend: Orange Coast Rebuilding Services performs industrial machine maintenance and machine rebuilding in California. Machinery Services Corporation offers a program of regular maintenance for your production line.

Keep production moving with industrial maintenance

Regular machine maintenance is the key to keeping your production line moving. One failed part can mean the difference between meeting your deadline delivery and shopping for new customers. When you perform regular maintenance, you may be able to notice potential issues before they become a larger problem.

I recommend: Davron Technologies of Chattanooga is a machine maintenance service provider for many different industries. CHL Technical Services provides industrial maintenance or manufacturing maintenance on a contract basis or as needed.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be sure that your employees follow your written lockout and tagout procedure when performing routine machine maintenance. Accidents can happen when employees fail to shut off all power sources before maintaining machines.