When you obtain a new piece of machinery or equipment through asset finance, it is incredibly important that you ensure effective maintenance of the equipment is carried out.
Maintenance falls into two categories:-
- Scheduled Maintenance (e.g. on a quarterly basis) to ensure that the machinery or equipment continues to function optimally, and
- Adhoc maintenance that needs to take place urgently if a problem arises.
Some finance packages will offer service and maintenance as part of the facility being offered. This will incur additional costs, so it is important you check exactly what is covered within the package, but generally the business that is using the equipment will be responsible for keeping the machinery in good working condition and general repair and maintenance.
Why is regular maintenance important?
- To ensure the goods remain working at all times
- Minimises risk of injury
- Aids continuance of Productivity
What are the responsibilities of an employer or provider of equipment?
- To ensure procedures for training of equipment is in place
- Goods adhere to Health & Safety Legislation
- Any Maintenance or Repairs are carried out by competent persons
What other factors need to be considered?
- Plan the timing of the maintenance work carefully
- Create a safe working area for the maintenance to take place
- Trained, Competent Persons carry out the maintenance
You can view a more detailed guide to plant and equipment maintenance on the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) website – http://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/machinery/plant.htm