December 2023
Work orders are indispensable in maintenance management, particularly in sectors like manufacturing. To ensure optimal effectiveness, few have put together some recommended steps. Keep in mind that these are recommendations, and it is crucial to cross-verify them with your organization’s specific guidelines or policies.
Prioritize SOPs
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) bring consistency and reliability, vital in various industries.
- They ensure uniformity, efficiency, and quality in routine tasks.
- Visual elements aid in onboarding and training.
- Integral for pinpointing areas of improvement.
Identify Work Order Purpose
- Clearly define whether it’s routine maintenance, preventive tasks, or addressing an unexpected issue.
- A concise description sets the foundation for effective communication and planning.
Define the Problem Clearly
- Provide a detailed description of maintenance activities.
- Break down tasks into clear, concise actionable steps.
- Include information about requesters, approvers, assigned technicians, due dates, costs, and resources.
- Specify tools required, safety precautions, and any additional relevant information.
Assign the Work Order
- Assign the right technician to each task.
- Include details such as the requester, approver, assigned technician, contact information, and availability.
Schedule the Work Order
- Clearly define due dates and the time of day for task completion.
- Balancing urgency and realism ensures a well-managed schedule.
Cost Estimates and Budget Allocation
- Integrate cost estimates for labor, materials, and other relevant expenses.
- Better budget management and cost control.
Execute the Work Order
- Ensure the assigned technician has all the necessary information.
- Emphasize precision, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.
Review and Close the Work Order
- Review completed work against defined standards.
- Document issues, corrective actions, and areas for improvement.
- Close the work order, update records, and ensure thorough documentation for continuous improvement.
