Machinery is an integral part of any workplace, and it helps us produce the products and services we offer to our customers. Machinery can be dangerous if not used or maintained correctly, leading to production stoppages and costing revenue. To prevent these things from happening, it’s crucial to follow the proper methods for operating and maintaining machinery in your workplace.
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Read the User Manual
Manufacturers’ manuals contain a wealth of information on using a machine safely and effectively. They also include information on how to troubleshoot common problems. Reading the manual is the first step in becoming familiar with a machine. The more familiar you are with each piece of equipment, the better you’ll be able to use and maintain it.
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Use the Right Equipment
When using machinery, it’s essential to use the right equipment for the job. For example, using a hammer to drive a screw into a wall is not the most efficient way to do it. Different machines are designed for various tasks. Using the wrong tool can damage the machine, but it can also be dangerous to the user. It’s also vital to use machinery correctly to avoid accidents and breakdowns. That means using the correct speed, force, and size for the task.
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Clean and Lubricate Regularly
How often do you clean and lubricate machinery in your workplace? If the answer is not often enough, you’re putting your machinery at risk. Cleaning and lubricating machines on a regular basis help to keep them in good working condition. It also helps to prevent breakdowns. Machines that are not adequately lubricated can overheat due to increased friction, leading to serious damage. Dirt and debris can also cause problems, so it’s important to keep machines clean.
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Know When to Schedule Repair and Maintenance
Just as you need to schedule regular doctor’s appointments to keep your health in check, you also need to schedule regular repair and maintenance for your workplace machinery. Machines that are not correctly maintained can break down unexpectedly, leading to costly repairs and production stoppages. If any issues are found, prompt maintenance should be scheduled to prevent further damage. For instance, if you use a Toyota forklift in your workplace, replacing faulty ones with new Toyota forklift parts can help prevent inefficiencies from unplanned breakdowns.
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Store Equipment Properly
How you store your machinery can also play a role in its longevity. Machines should be stored in a clean, dry area where they will not be exposed to the elements. Sun, wind, rain, and snow can damage machinery if it’s not stored correctly. Also, be sure to store equipment in its designated area. This will help keep things organized and make finding what you need when you need it easier.
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Discourage Drinks While Using Machinery
It’s common for people to drink coffee or water while working on their computers. However, doing this while using machinery can be dangerous. Liquids can easily be spilled on machines, which can cause damage. It’s also a safety hazard to have liquids near machinery. If you must drink while using machinery, do so away from the machine and be sure to clean up any spills immediately.
These are some of the tips to keep your machines functioning better. By keeping them in mind, you can avoid frequent breakdowns, which can be costly to repair. You can also keep your production line running smoothly and safely.
