Chapter 14: Course Exercises

14.1.1 Background

This exercise will involve the concepts and principles incorporated in Riddell s work-role grid shown in Figure 5.11, which categorizes the duties and responsibilities of the traditional supervisor.

14.1.2 Part A: The supervisor s role in a traditional organization

The administrative structure of a petrochemical company is shown in Figure 14.1. The operating policy of the company is to run its plant continuously, at its rated output, for three shifts per day, 330 days per year, the plant being shutdown each August for a 5-week major overhaul. The maintenance supervisor and their teams (all on days) carry out first-line and second-line work within their respective trades and areas. Emergencies arising outside normal daywork hours are covered by a callout system for each trade and area. The plant teams are supported by the workshop for minor reconditioning and fabrication and by contract labor for work overloads and during the annual shutdown.

Figure 14.1: Administrative structure, petrochemical company

All of the supervisors have at least 6 years experience, have been promoted from the artisans ranks and have been well trained in supervisory duties. In general, they are respected by both trade-force and management.