Regardless of the type of manufacturing that we are in, it is safe to assume that we have plenty of standard operating procedures (SOPs). These SOPs have a life that starts as a documentation of a specific sequence of events so that they are repeatable and have minimal variation. Over time, events occur that challenge the current accuracy of the SOP which requires management of change. Organizational name changes, undesired incidents occur requiring modifications, or addition

In a perfect world, the cradle that starts the existence of preventive maintenance (PM) starts from a Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA). Whether it is usage-based, condition-based, or time-based, these proactive activities sometimes result from a reactive event, but most are design by an FMEA. From the FMEA, the necessary proactive work identified sets the stage for the asset to achieve an expected life-cycle cost and the desired reliability. We then create the PM's attrib

Manufacturing and summertime mean one thing, it’s hot. Most people might complain about how hot it is after mowing a quarter-acre yard in August. Try getting up on top of an overhead crane that carries molten metal every day in the middle of August in any of the Southern states, and you will feel what real hot is. With the amount of heat that comes with the summer months along with the heat generated in a variety of manufacturing processes, we all must stay focused on our hyd

There are various data points and case studies on the benefits of recognition. Whether it is a form of financial recognition to an entire team or simply recognizing an individual's high performance verbally in front of their peers, recognitions go a long way. When we are in the moment of chaos, and someone comes through the chaos as the rectifying hero, this is the most simplistic moment to give recognition. We recognize these individuals for their ability to manage through u