As the year comes to a close, it’s time for businesses to assess, inspect and prepare their industrial equipment for the new year. Taking preventative maintenance measures now means fewer surprises later, including unexpected equipment failures, operational downtime, increased costs and safety hazards. An effective year-end checklist helps safeguard your investment, minimize downtime and increase operational efficiency across your facility, regardless of your industry. Here are four key areas to focus on:
Equipment Inspection and Calibration
Start by giving each piece of equipment a thorough inspection. Examine belts, bearings, and moving parts for signs of wear and corrosion. Small cracks or loosened bolts today could mean system failures tomorrow. Calibration is equally critical. Even precise tools eventually stray from their designated points. Verify temperature gauges, pressure levels and safety features to make sure your equipment is operating efficiently. Document all adjustments so you have a clear record heading into the new year. This data can help you identify recurring problems and determine when to purchase new parts.
Electrical Systems and Safety Checks
Before the year ends, you should consider checking the electrical components of your equipment. Look for indications of moisture or overheating and change out any damaged connectors, fuses or wiring. Backup generators should be tested to ensure they’re prepared for use in an emergency, and the insulation resistance of cables and motors should be tested, as well. Review the location and state of safety barriers, emergency stops and signs for large machinery. These preventative inspections protect both your co-workers and your equipment.
Equipment and Cleanliness
Cleanliness is more than just a matter of aesthetics; it contributes to the health and functionality of your equipment. Over time, dust and residue build up near sensors, ventilation and internal parts. Plan to thoroughly clean equipment, ductwork and components. To prevent damage, use techniques recommended by the manufacturer. Vacuum out control panels, clean sensors and replace filters. Remember to disinfect in compliance with regulatory codes if you work in the health or food industries. The foundation for safer and more efficient operations in the new year is laid by clean workstations, which raise morale, lower the risk of accidents and extend the life of your equipment.
Review Maintenance Logs and Plan Ahead
Go over the service history, work orders and maintenance logs of the previous year. Use this data to design a better, more proactive maintenance calendar for the upcoming year. Assess spare parts inventory, adjust out-of-date data and update supplier contacts. Discuss equipment upgrades or process enhancements with the safety and operations team. Year-end is the perfect opportunity to tidy up data and make sure all assets are properly categorized. Strategic equipment maintenance planning is crucial for preventing disruptions in the coming year.
With a new year approaching, inspecting, cleaning, and planning your facility’s equipment maintenance ahead ensures efficiency and creates smooth processes. Spotting small issues now can help you avoid major disruptions later. Learn how Veritiv Pollock SOLVES equipment and provides facility solutions by contacting us online.
