Downtime can become a very costly issue over an extended period. When a machine is left sitting idle due to an overdue service or delayed repair, it can quickly affect project timelines and how your business functions.
There are many things you can do to effectively reduce downtime on your machines, ensuring work stays on schedule and is completed safely.
- prestart checklists are a quick visual and functional check necessary for operator safety every time before a machine is used,
- routine inspections recommended by the manufacturer occur at a minimum every 90-days and are based on the use of the EWP,
- preventative maintenance focuses on addressing smaller issues before they become larger problems and
- scheduled services are designed around the equipment’s systems, fluids and components.
All EWPs come with an approved maintenance manual from the manufacturer that outlines all maintenance details. If there is no manual, inspections and maintenance schedules should be followed as outlined in AS 2550.10: Cranes, Hoists and Winches – Safe Use – Mobile Elevating Work Platforms.
Why Scheduled Servicing is Important for Uptime
Unlike a 90-day inspection or pre-start checklist that a knowledgeable owner/operator can perform, scheduled servicing goes beyond functionality, with regular OEM-recommended replacements and check-ups.
No forecasting required; they occur at a period of time or by usage determined by the manufacturer and can be found in the machine’s manual. This usually involves inspections and maintenance work such as coolant replacement after a certain number of years or spark plugs due at a listed odometer.
Preventative Maintenance Prolonging Equipment Life
Preventative maintenance programs are key when it comes to maintaining uptime and prolonging the life of your equipment. Though it can include scheduled servicing, preventative maintenance takes things a step further than the manufacturer’s requirements.
Preventative maintenance takes care of wear items and checks systems before they fail. Its main function is to reduce the possibility of costly major repair work that causes your equipment to be out of action for extended periods of time, halting businesses and projects.
When establishing a preventative maintenance program, working environment, utilisation, and the conditions your machine is used in are all things that need to be considered.
The Strength Behind the Lift
Ahern Australia is the support network behind you and your fleet. As the OEM for Snorkel machines, they have the knowledge to provide you with factory-trained technical support to keep your access fleet working.
They can take the guesswork out of developing your EWP’s maintenance program through service agreements tailored to your fleet size, requirements and upcoming projects. Ahern Australia will assess your current access equipment – whether Snorkel, Ruthmann Bluelift or other brands – and provide you with preventative maintenance and scheduled servicing programs.
Contact your local Ahern Australia branch on 1300 900 700 or contact us here to find out how to reduce your downtime today.
