Understanding the Importance of Equipment Documentation
When a component malfunctions, managers take several actions to get the machine back up and running, minimizing downtime and continuing to maximize profits. Putting together equipment documentation at the initial retrieval of the item and then reaching for it when your item needs repair is one of the first steps in addressing any issues that arise.
What are the “essentials” of equipment documentation?
Operator manuals and user guides typically include operating procedures, start-up and shutdown sequences, and basic troubleshooting steps. Maintenance manuals provide detailed repair instructions and part lists, while technical drawings and diagrams illustrate the layout of electrical systems. Test reports are essential to keep on file, as they document a performance history. Records of any changes, upgrades, or repairs made to the equipment should also be included. Lastly, warranty information and purchase records will be helpful when contacting the OEM about a more serious issue.
What are the benefits of having comprehensive equipment documentation?
For starters, it improves the efficiency, safety, and operational longevity of your machines. Having an equipment history streamlines maintenance and preventive care, as you now have access to service schedules, lubrication points, and other relevant information. You also ensure the correct parts and procedures are being used during a breakdown, reducing unexpected downtime. With clear instructions for disassembly, reassembly, and calibration, as well as accurate part numbers and vendor information, there is a reduction in the risk of incorrect repairs, damage to equipment, and, ultimately, an error.
Sometimes, even with the proper materials, a problem may be too complex for an on-site repair; that’s when it’s time to contact professionals like us to care for your invaluable equipment. Our technicians can tackle almost any issue with ease, ensuring your components are back up and running in no time. Regarding records, we provide you with a comprehensive report detailing all adjustments and repairs made to your machine, and we also retain a copy of our own. Photos often accompany them, so if your item gives you a hard time in the future, we know where we left off and what to do next.
Contact us today to get your machinery back on track!