Automation and Maintenance Training

Abstract

SUMMARY The effective use of robots, FMS systems and other complex modern production equipment demands the deployment of multi-skilled maintenance people. Although this need has been well known for several years, several factors conspire to prevent sufficient appropriate maintenance training schemes being established. Such factors include demarcation problems, deficiencies in management industrial relations competence, and excessive reliance on ‘poaching’ trained people rather than on training. Reasons are adduced why reliance on equipment suppliers for maintenance is likely to prove insufficient.