It’s going to be warmer than usual throughout much of the U.S. this summer. In your continuing efforts to keep jobsite workers safe and cool, don’t neglect your construction equipment. Machinery downtime can cost.
Construction Equipment Maintenance is Vital to Our Industry
OSHA says the construction industry leads in workplace-related injuries and deaths. Many accidents are caused by equipment malfunctions that could be avoided.
It’s never too late to begin calendaring construction equipment maintenance. Review manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Reconstruct past maintenance for older construction equipment as you begin a new schedule. As always, when red flags are raised or regulatory agencies review a project, conscientious bookkeeping prevails. It’s proven diligence for construction companies.
- Coolants/antifreeze levels – Improper balance can lead to problems with other fluid systems and cause inhibitors to precipitate out. This can lead to greater degradation of metal components.
- Masonry – Hot-weather mortar work and bricklaying present special challenges. Knowledgeable, professional contractors are required; masonry pros should follow ACI 530.1-92/ASCE 6-92/TMS 602-92 Specifications for Masonry Structures.
- Overworking can cause breakdowns – Construction workers can suffer job-related exhaustion. Your construction equipment can too. Review and post machinery limitations so all operators are aware. Breakdowns caused by overusing construction equipment can void warranties.
- Proper storage – Groups of bored preteens see construction sites as amusement parks full of rides. Remove all keys and when possible, store equipment in a dry, covered area. Just a little dew can corrode and rust equipment systems. It also takes a toll on operating efficiency.
- Take the time to save money – It’s tempting to add a bit of overtime to finish a job quicker. (We tell ourselves we can sleep later.) But equipment failures can cost more and waste greater time than bringing the job in under-schedule.
- Use the right tools – Construction employees are creative. But when we modify or juryrig equipment to make-do, it can cause problems. Encourage project workers to use the right equipment for the right job and to avoid mix-and-matching accessories.
Increased use of technology is driving our industry. Contact Construction Monitor for ways to save money using lead-generating construction data.
…And keep it cool this summer.