If you own or operate a manufacturing facility, you know how important it is to keep things running smoothly. There are many moving parts in managing this type of business, and many things can go wrong if you’re not careful.
It’s essential to keep your facility running at its best. And by going over some of the most critical practices in managing your manufacturing facility, you can avoid any costly mistakes. Below are ways to keep your facility running like a well-oiled machine.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
One of the most important things you can do to keep your manufacturing facility running smoothly is to practice preventative maintenance. That means taking care of minor problems before they have a chance to turn into big ones.
For example, regularly scheduled inspections and repairs will help you avoid unexpected downtime due to equipment failures. It will save you money in the long run since preventative maintenance is usually cheaper than emergency repairs.
You can also set up a regular cleaning and organization schedule to help keep your facility in tip-top shape. Doing so will not only make it easier to find things when you need them, but it can also help prevent accidents.
Another way to practice preventative maintenance is to invest in quality materials and equipment. That way, you can be sure that your products are being made in the best possible way and that your machinery will last for years.
Registration is Crucial
In any manufacturing facility, registration is crucial. After all, you want to ensure that your facility is up to par with all the latest safety regulations. You should also update your registration to take advantage of any new technologies or practices that could improve your facility’s efficiency. Additionally, staying registered will help you maintain a good relationship with your local government and authorities.
However, different locations have varying registration requirements. For instance, in Canada, a Canadian Registration Number (CRN) is a must for any facility that uses pressure equipment. That’s why it’s essential to know how to find out your CRN number if you’re ever in doubt.
You can also look into getting an ISO 9001 certification. This will show potential customers that your facility is committed to quality control and continual improvement. Getting certified can be lengthy and expensive, but it’s worth it in the long run.
Stay Organized and Keep Good Records
It’s also important to stay organized and keep good records. Having good record-keeping practices in place will help you avoid any costly errors or delays in production. Plus, it will make it easier to spot potential problems so that you can take care of them before they cause significant disruptions.
Organizing includes everything from keeping track of inventory levels to knowing when specific machines need to be serviced. You can also create a system for documenting any accidents or incidents in your facility. That way, you can learn from your mistakes and prevent them from happening again.
One way to stay organized is to use a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). This type of software can help you keep track of all the different parts of your facility to ensure everything is running smoothly.
A CMMS can also help you create work orders and schedules for your employees. In doing so, you can be sure that everyone is on the same page and that tasks are being completed promptly.
Hire Qualified Employees and Train Them Properly
Another critical practice in managing your manufacturing facility is to hire qualified employees and train them properly. That means ensuring that your staff has the necessary skills and knowledge for the job and that they are adequately trained on safety procedures.
Taking the time to find qualified employees and train them properly will pay off in the form of increased productivity and fewer accidents. According to studies, well-trained employees are up to 12% more productive than those who receive little or no training. More so, they are 85% less likely to be injured on the job.
You can find qualified employees by working with a staffing agency that specializes in the manufacturing industry. These agencies have access to a pool of potential candidates and can help you find the best possible employees for your needs. They can also provide you with information on training programs that can help get your new hires up to speed quickly.
Investing in your employees will show them you value their skills and experience. As a result, they will be more likely to stick around for the long haul, saving you money on turnover costs.
The above tips are all crucial for ensuring a smooth-running operation. Following these essential practices can avoid any significant problems in your manufacturing facility. So, take these tips into account next time you’re managing your facility – your business will thank you for it!