Overview

Several considerations must be reviewed when determining the schedule for a preventive maintenance program. These considerations are listed in Figure 8-1.

Scheduling is a two-step process. It includes not only how long each task should take, but how often it should be performed. In determining how long it takes to perform a task, the estimate should consider:

• Time required getting tools and materials ready for the job

• Travel time to get to the job

• Any safety, environmental, or hazardous materials restrictions

• How long it actually takes to perform the task

• How long it takes to clean up the area and put all tools and materials away

If good estimating techniques are used, then the scheduling and completion of the tasks is much more accurate. However, one factor can skew the schedules for PM programs the time someone spends on the job performing work that is not on the PM inspection or service. As craft technicians service or inspect an equipment unit, they will occasionally find a problem that is beginning to develop. The question is how long should they spend correcting the problem before they ask for help, or write a work order to correct the problem. This is generally a policy decision that should be made when starting a PM program.

There are two factors to consider when making the decision. The first is the time it would...