I started my 40-year graphic arts career in the collator/bindery area and as a small press operator at the local school district. These machines required high operator maintenance. Over the years the manufacturers took notice. Eventually I was approached by the AM Service Manager at the Santa Barbara Branch Office to become a technical representative for them. A year later I was promoted to technical specialist. My broad range of operator experience on many different pre-press, press, and post press machines became a great asset. Eventually I relocated with AM to Salt Lake City, Utah. Here a much larger and more diverse machine population awaited me. Several years later, I became Director of the Utah Legislative Printing Office & Mail Room. While serving there for over 11 years, I did as much maintenance of the equipment as possible in-house. Through the decades I have always kept a hands-on interest in graphic arts equipment including the computer systems used for pre-press, press and post press applications, as well as copiers. I have just celebrated over 10 years as an Operations Specialist with National Security Technologies.

What is the best equipment maintenance tip?   

Know your machines, your machine operators, and your machine technical service people. The smooth interaction of this group and your involvement will spell success for your organization. A little hands on support and help will build teamwork beyond imagination!

What is the biggest mistake and how to avoid it?  

Don't be tempted to run your machines into the ground. Have a maintenance program for each piece of equipment and follow it!  The issue of safety should always be first. Have technical knowledge of the equipment, as well as staff with personnel skill sets who understand the equipment. Do not cut corners. Follow manufacturer procedures at all times. Maintain excellent communication with your machine manufacturers/vendors. The machine operators and technical service people must respect the other's roles. 

Before buying equipment, what should in-plants consider?

My first consideration is the manufacturer's reputation for technical service and parts support. Remember, sales is short term. Service support is long term. Your location plays a huge role in your after-the-sale support. If at all possible, seek out other in-plants in your area to get feedback on equipment you are considering.  

Are there directives that you should write into equipment service contracts?  

Yes, indicate your specific expectations in writing for service and support. Response time and parts availability commitment from the equipment manufacturer is very important.

What questions should you ask or directives should you give the service technician?     

It may seem trivial, but your technician should be able to park close to your location if at all possible to minimize repair time. Your technician should also have easy access to your operator for sharing information and testing the equipment after the repairs are made. Keep your machine and its location safe, clean and accessible. Have a well lit area and a place for your technician to set his parts and tools. Remember, treat your technicians as you would your favorite employees. You both have the same goal for smooth, operating, quality productive equipment.

Should only one person on staff handle equipment maintenance?

Yes, depending on the size of your shop and size of your staff. Remember, it is very important to have your equipment operator available to your service technician while there. Your operator can provide the service tech with important information, as well as learn important information from the tech.  

Other guidelines/comments?

Maintenance is a long term commitment in the pursuit of excellence. Regular maintenance provides a safe, productive, quality environment for all. And that plays a big part in your in-plant's overall success!