Why is it important to create a preventive maintenance program for your equipment? As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Your equipment is the very foundation of your company’s productivity. In the event of a mechanical breakdown, the entire production chain is paralyzed. It is therefore important to carry out preventive maintenance on your equipment to ensure the proper functioning of your operations.
This is particularly true for companies that need to manage and maintain a large amount of equipment. It’s easy to lose track of the last time your equipment underwent maintenance. With an effective program, you can maintain control and ensure the longevity of your equipment.
Our computerized maintenance management specialists are pleased to share their expertise with you. Now, let’s discover the 4 steps to creating an effective preventive maintenance program.
How to create a sustainable preventive maintenance program
1. Define your business goals
What do you expect from a preventive maintenance plan for your equipment? The first step to building an effective program is to define your goals. If you want to save money, focus on maintenance that prevents breakdowns, considers the age of your equipment, and reduces labour costs.
2. Determine the parameters of action
When you want to implement a preventive maintenance program, there are many elements to consider. You will need to determine the parameters of action precisely so that your program is as effective as possible. Among these parameters of action, we find interventions that are:
- Essential: These interventions include required maintenance, equipment regulations, and periodic checks of machines and infrastructure.
- Customary: For breakdowns and user feedback.
- Recommended: What is necessary according to the manufacturer.
Once you’ve defined your parameters of action, you can then prioritize these interventions according to the risk that they represent.
3. The necessary training
Creating a maintenance program is good, but you still have to be able to apply it. Surround yourself with people who can carry out preventive maintenance, if necessary. If you don’t have the necessary staff for your business, don’t hesitate to call on an external service to carry out the analysis and maintenance of your equipment.
4. Good communication is key
Once you’ve adopted a preventive maintenance program, don’t forget to communicate it to your employees. It’s crucial that your employees are aware of what will be done and when. This ensures fluid maintenance and prevents additional work.
Consider preventive equipment maintenance software
Although there are many ways to create an effective preventive maintenance program, computerized maintenance management software (CMMS) is an undeniable asset for modern companies.
What is CMMS software? This software is designed to meet the needs of different work ergonomics. It allows you to maintain control over your maintenance operations. It is also known to make the work of management employees easier.
This software is therefore a powerful tool for creating preventive maintenance programs. The software carries out your inspection and maintenance tasks. This therefore helps ensure the uninterrupted operation of your equipment.
If you have any questions about preventive equipment maintenance, contact us. An experienced member of our team will be pleased to answer all your questions.