Don’t let poor PPM shut down your warehouse

Round the clock operations struggling to maintain automated handling systems causing costly delays

Extended operational hours in industrial settings will always cause more issues and therefore downtime as systems are running longer than initially planned for. This means that effective Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) for automated handling systems to keep operations running is more critical. Because integrators need to subcontract to external engineers for maintenance how they manage this work is crucial to both performance levels, contract penalties and costs. 

Integrators using maintenance contractors on an ad-hoc basis are reacting to service visit requirements and equipment issues when they occur which causes more delays and inefficiencies. Due to a lack of good engineers with knowledge of materials handling automation systems Integrators can find themselves struggling to find the right expertise and often routine maintenance jobs that could be planned in advance take longer or are not completed thoroughly by less experienced engineers who are under pressure to get systems operational. Leading to increased breakdowns, longer downtimes, lower performance rates and contract penalties.

Partnering with Reliable Contractors

To mitigate these challenges, integrators should prioritise developing an effective PPM strategy in collaboration with proven contractors who directly employ their own skilled engineers. Having a team with detailed knowledge of the installation and equipment ensures that maintenance is timely and effective, minimising downtime and maintaining optimal system performance. It can also work out more cost effective as visits happen before breakdowns occur and can be scheduled around planned work with parts procured in good time, planning labour schedules in advance and minimising emergency call out charges. 

A structured maintenance plan from a reliable service provider can offer known costs, making budget management more predictable and performance more consistent. By relying on a mix of subcontractors, integrators experience more frequent breakdowns and longer downtime, ultimately impacting their overall efficiency. Setting up a good relationship with a knowledgeable service provider can significantly enhance maintenance outcomes and operational stability.

Simon Howell, Managing Director at hmhs explains “By neglecting Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), Integrators not only risk facing potential disruptions but also expose themselves to significant financial losses. PPM serves as a proactive measure to safeguard operations and maintain profitability in the long run and in most cases it costs less.” 

Partnering with Herts Mechanical Handlings Services (hmhs)

Herts Mechanical Handlings Services (hmhs) understands that every warehouse is unique, with different operational demands and machinery usage patterns. That's why we offer tailored PPM solutions designed to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether it's scheduling maintenance based on machinery usage hours or at timed intervals. We work closely with Integrators to develop a PPM strategy that maximises efficiency and minimises disruptions.

When considering your next project, Herts Mechanical Handlings Services (hmhs) emerges as a reliable partner with a proven track record of delivering both installation and ongoing maintenance services with excellence. 

With years of experience in the field, hmhs have a team of skilled engineers equipped with the knowledge and expertise to handle your next installation and ongoing maintenance requirements. We operate to the highest standards, with our engineers directly employed by us, ensuring the quality of their work.