Tool audits promote maintenance excellence

SKF has launched a new auditing service to help companies optimise maintenance schedules, making best use of the tools they have available: the audit helps achieve best practice in machine maintenance

SKF has launched a new auditing service that will help companies optimise maintenance schedules; making best use of the tools they have available.

The audit helps companies achieve best practice in machine maintenance and the correct use of tools, equipment and bearings.

By surveying a company's workshops and stores, SKF identifies areas of strength and weakness.

A report highlighting the findings is then produced with recommendations and action to be taken, if any.

Prior to a visit, SKF requests information on a variety of areas, such as maintenance tools in use, a list of equipment, bearings used, bearing arrangements, a site organisation chart for engineering and maintenance, and an example of staff training records.

This allows the team to assess the type of maintenance equipment they would expect to see on a site before arrival.

During the visit, tools are evaluated and graded according to condition.

The team speaks to employees and contractors to ascertain whether the tools are being correctly used.

The stores function and condition of larger tools, such as hydraulic nuts, is also reviewed.

Once the audit has been carried out, a report is produced consisting of four elements: a summary of the interviews carried out; a list of all maintenance tools audited, with a note on their condition; a recommended list of replacements, if any; and recommendations for improvement or refurbishment where applicable.

If current practices fall short of recommended maintenance best practice, SKF will make specific recommendations to help improve maintenance schedules.

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