Carsten Müller is an expert in testing and maintenance processes. He explains to our magazine how maintenance is done properly.
"Galvanotechnik": VW used to advertise with the slogan: "And runs and runs and runs ...". Why on earth should I maintain something that is running smoothly?
Carsten Müller: Every machine, every device and every system requires maintenance over time. Maintenance proves to be a crucial part of any operational routine to ensure the daily safety and efficiency of machines, devices or systems. Imagine you have to complete a job just in time and then, of all times, a wearing part in your production chain breaks down.
What do I need to pay attention to in advance?
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) emphasizes the importance of thorough planning. Safety always comes first! That's why it's important to clarify the potential hazards during the planning phase; will there be noise, heat or hazardous substances? This also makes it possible to clarify in advance what qualifications the people involved need for the task in question. Companies can then find suitable personnel to maintain the machines, provide the necessary tools or carry out safe working procedures. Electroplating plants in particular often have to deal with hazardous chemicals. Safe planning also specifies binding time periods.
What is important during maintenance itself?
The part to be serviced must be clean and safe. Safe means: The machine is locked. A sign has been placed. Above all, the power supply is shut off and it is ensured that it cannot be accidentally switched on again.
The effectiveness of maintenance work and thus a quick return to production is increased if protective clothing, special tools or other personal protective equipment are available for immediate use. Employees in the affected area should already be included in the planning. This is the only way to consistently adhere to time schedules and safeguard workplaces in stressful situations.
No maintenance measure is considered complete until an appropriate final inspection has been carried out
What follow-up work needs to be done?
No maintenance work is considered complete until a final inspection has been carried out. In addition to a complete check-up of the system or machine, the tasks performed and the safety of the inspected equipment are of course also checked. All maintenance steps are recorded in a mandatory log, which provides all parties involved with a clear overview. I consider it particularly important to document any difficulties encountered and suggestions for improvement in writing. Top priority is given to involving in-house employees who have special knowledge of their workplace. The following always applies: sound expertise can help to ensure that maintenance work is carried out safely and effectively for everyone involved.
ABOUT THE PERSON
Carsten Müller is Managing Director of Echt! Smart Work GmbH and an expert in maintenance processes. He says: "Incomplete and analog documentation should be a thing of the past."
