Orientation to the Trade

What do maintenance craft workers do? Install Repair Replace Maintain Dismantle

History As long as there have been industrial plant structures – there have been people needed to maintain the machinery 18th century – automated textile mill 1798 – cotton gin Machinery that is used and not maintained develops wear, breaks down, loses precision, and stops working

The IM Trade Sometimes when one machine stops production it can shut down the entire plant You may – lubricate machines, replace worn or damaged equipment, or diagnose problems You may repair a wide variety of things – nuclear reactors to hand tools You may maintain the equipment – keep it working, changing things, retooling

Some IM workers may work in the electrical and instrumentation side of things Specialize in electrical and analytical equipment – premium position – IEET at NWCC

Working Conditions vary by industry – shop setting May work by yourself or part of a team Must perform task quickly because broken machines cost company time and money Many have to work overtime

Training Normal training is four years through apprenticeship programs that combine OJT with classroom instruction Community college Need diploma or GED with some vocational or training experience Mechanical aptitude is important because of assembly and dissemble of machinery

Advancement usually takes the form of higher wages or sometimes becomes a supervisor or superintendent NCCER – created to provide the industry with standardized construction education materials and a system for tracking and recognizing students’ accomplishments

Employee Responsibility Be able to use current trade materials, tools, equipment Perform tasks quickly and efficiently Adapt to adjusting methods to meet each situation Be professional Be honest Be loyal

Be willing to learn Be willing to take responsibility Be willing to cooperate Know the rules and regulations Don’t be late to work or absent often Work well with others Work SAFELY

Employer obligations Maintain a safe workplace Some have a safety committee Fix any concerns you report Show you how to do your job safely Provide the correct PPE Warn about specific hazards Supervise for safety

OSHA says employers should Perform frequent and regular job site inspections Instruct all employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions Know the regulations that pertain to the job Not let anyone use anything that does not comply with OSHA standards Only let qualified individuals operate tools, equipment, and machines

You should be trained to properly lift, carry, and lower materials You should be trained to properly store materials You should know how to properly use tools