Steps

• 1). Create a list of daily operational work. This includes part deliveries, equipment set up and tear down and tasks necessary for equipment operations. Operational tasks may also include quality control checks of product and process data collection.
  
  
• 2). Document the currently performed maintenance work. This includes checking fluid levels, verifying that equipment is working properly and looking for damage. It also includes part replacements or upgrades when they are performed on a schedule. This information can be pulled from maintenance logs. Some of these tasks could be delegated to equipment operators.
  
  
• 3
  Have other ways to utilize mechanics when nothing is broken.PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Identify work that operational staff can perform that maintenance staff are currently doing. For example, train operators to check the operating temperature or determine what sounds indicate a possible problem. If equipment operators can perform some equipment checks, this frees up highly skilled maintenance staff for hands on work or actual repairs. In his book,"Handbook for Cogeneration and Combined Cycle Power Plants," Meherwan P. Boyce says, "operators here must be convinced they should maintain their own equipment."
  
  
• 4). Divide remaining work tasks into the skill set required. Maintenance work should be done by those with mechanical training. Equipment operation can be done by anyone with the requisite training. Keep experienced teams together for high skill work, such as equipment installations and upgrades.
  
  
• 5). Create lists of operational tasks that skilled maintenance staff can do when they don't have maintenance work to perform. In the book "Total Productive Maintenance," Terry Wireman says, "technicians only average 2-3 hours of hands-on activities per day." By having a list of operational work they can perform when available, they help perform operational tasks while breaking down the barriers between the two groups.
  
  
• 6). Offer paid training to equipment operators to gain maintenance and repair skills. Increasing the number of people capable of performing basic repairs and maintenance can ensure it is performed quickly.
  
  
• 7
  If shop floor employees can order what they need, there are fewer delays in placing orders.Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
  
  Train operators and maintenance staff on how to request items that they need. If they can submit their own purchase requests for shop supplies like cleaning wipes, adhesives, oil or lubricants, fewer supply chain staff will be needed.