by Drew Troyer, CRE, CMRP, Editor | Nov 28, 2020 | RAM Tools & Methods, Workforce Issues
I’ve always been amazed and impressed by the knowledge and problem solving capability of plant-floor workers. Skilled and knowledgeable tradespersons and operators really know what’s going on at a site. And they’re an extremely valuable resource in our quest to run...
by Bob Williamson, CMRP, CPMM, MIAM, Editor | Nov 22, 2020 | Asset Management, Newsletter Column, Workforce Issues
This is the second in a series of discussions regarding tasks associated with operator-performed maintenance. As explained in Part I (Nov. 16, 2020), the use of operators for such tasks has met with mixed reviews ever since the concept rolled out as part of...
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Nov 21, 2020 | Plant Operations, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
Perhaps the simplest definition of a tutor is a person, device, or other item that provides well-focused instruction. That type of instruction usually results in avoidance of costly mistakes, repeat failures, delays, anxieties, even loss of one’s job. BOOKS AS TUTORS...
by Bob Williamson, CMRP, CPMM, MIAM, Editor | Nov 15, 2020 | Asset Management, Newsletter Column, Workforce Issues
Engaging operators in the maintenance of their machines has been met with mixed reviews since its deployment as part of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) in the 1980s. Proponents believe in it. Opponents don’t want operators touching their machines more than...
by Ken Bannister, MEch (UK), CMRP, MLE, Editor | Nov 8, 2020 | Newsletter Column, RAM's Human Factor, Workforce Issues
In North America, the primary written language used in maintenance and asset management is English. Unfortunately, the English language tolerates the use of many imprecise words that can cast doubt on their intended meaning and lead to poor interpretation and results....
by Bob Williamson, CMRP, CPMM, MIAM, Editor | Oct 25, 2020 | Newsletter Column, Workforce Issues
The National STEM Consortium (nationalstem.org) reports that there are now over 2.6 million hybrid and electric vehicles on the road in the United States. According to a World Bank study, by the end of 2020, the world-wide electric-vehicle value chain will likely be...
by Bob Williamson, CMRP, CPMM, MIAM, Editor | Oct 10, 2020 | RAM's Human Factor, Workforce Issues
Detailed work instructions are the most important equipment-reliability-improvement tool we have: They explain the meaning of checklists. Such instructions list WHAT, HOW, and HOW WELL to perform a task, as opposed to checklists that typically just list WHAT to do....
by Heinz Bloch, P.E., Editor | Oct 4, 2020 | Newsletter Column, The Bloch Files, Workforce Issues
Failure analysis of fluid machinery often focuses on the part that failed. If the bearing failed, it must be because “the bearing is bad.” Mechanics and machinists then often react by doing the obvious: Replace the bearing. However, if we replace parts without first...
by Drew Troyer, CRE, CMRP, Editor | Oct 3, 2020 | Plant Operations, RAM Tools & Methods, RAM's Human Factor, Workforce Issues
I have written extensively in The RAM Review about the importance of precision-work instructions to ensure high-quality maintenance work. Such instructions are particularly valuable for bringing in a successful shutdown, turnaround, or outage (STO) event. The...
by Bob Williamson, CMRP, CPMM, MIAM, Editor | Sep 27, 2020 | Newsletter Column, Workforce Issues
As I’ve said and written for decades, “Maintenance is the least defined of all industrial activities.” There is no common set of standards that defines maintenance standards, practices, methods, or job descriptions. Yet, there are some industry-specific standards and...
