TPM Boards and Operator Autonomous Maintenance

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A TPM Board is a simple visual tool used to define basic maintenance and equipment-care tasks that can be performed by production operators. This is commonly referred to as Operator Autonomous Maintenance.



Not every maintenance task requires a maintenance technician. Operators are already at the equipment throughout the day, so there are certain routine tasks they can perform safely with the proper training. These can include cleaning, basic inspections, checking for leaks or damage, wiping down components, and lubricating designated grease points.

The first step is deciding which tasks should remain with maintenance and which can reasonably be assigned to operators. For example, an electrical inspection may be performed by maintenance every 60 days, while an operator may grease designated fittings weekly or clean an inspection window daily.

Basic Items on the Board

-          Calendar

-          Procedure

-          Check Off Process

-          Notes and Comments


The board should be located near the equipment so operators can easily see what needs to be completed and how often. Necessary tools and supplies should also be readily available. If an operator is responsible for a lubrication task, the correct grease and grease gun should be clearly identified and accessible.

Training is also important. Before assigning a task to an operator, maintenance should demonstrate the correct method and explain what the operator should look for. Operators should also understand when something they find needs to be reported to maintenance.

I recommend starting with one or two pieces of equipment. Identify a few appropriate operator tasks, document the frequency and responsibility, provide the necessary training, and create the TPM Board. Once the process is working, it can be expanded to other equipment. Simple.

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