Industrial engineering, a lesser-known branch of engineering, focuses primarily on the optimization of operations. In recent years, this sector has gained in visibility, often associated with the Toyota method or illustrated in the film *The Founder*, which depicts the systematic optimization of operations at McDonald's to make it the fast-food giant we know today. This principle is a typical application of industrial engineering, particularly widespread on production lines.
Production line maintenance is crucial to a company's success. A faulty machine can lead to exorbitant costs due to lost production. The application of industrial principles to preventive maintenance has achieved a level of reliability that would make any transport company envious. Although industrial maintenance generally focuses on fixed machines, sheltered from the elements and in controlled environments, it is entirely transposable to the maintenance of mobile vehicles. Despite the external factors affecting vehicle durability, it is possible to base our analyses on operational data from recent years to initiate preventive and predictive maintenance. This is what we call the industrialization of maintenance.
The Toyota method is often associated with the term "Lean", a strategy aimed at maximizing efficiency by reducing waste. This approach involves analyzing operations, segmenting processes and eliminating non-value-added activities to optimize performance. Historically, Lean has aroused fears, often associated with job cuts or lower quality. However, in a context of labor shortages, the idea of "doing more with less" is becoming particularly attractive. The aim of Lean is not to cut jobs, but to reallocate human resources to tasks that are more rewarding and have a greater impact on the company.
At the same time, the Six Sigma principle is often mentioned in industrialization. It aims to achieve the highest possible level of quality by setting rigorous standards and ensuring that every part and every operation maintains consistent quality. This process requires balanced management so as not to compromise profitability.
The combination of Lean and Six Sigma creates a methodology for improving efficiency while maintaining a high level of quality. However, the road to this excellence is arduous and requires careful management of time and resources.
A first step towards improving maintenance processes can be the strategic planning of mechanical inspections. Knowing the deadlines, it is essential to manage the workload to maintain a regular flow of inspections, avoiding extreme fluctuations. Depending on how the business operates, inspections can be scheduled by date or by mileage.
Before developing a comprehensive preventive or predictive maintenance strategy, it's crucial to master planning and meet established deadlines. Postponing planned work inevitably shifts the load to a later date. The aim of the maintenance department is to provide the organization with the greatest possible predictability, both in terms of budget and vehicle availability. By planning effectively, and establishing appropriate preventive maintenance programs, it is possible to anticipate needs and significantly improve service reliability. Reliable service means satisfied customers and smoother financial management.
