{"id":9436,"date":"2024-11-22T08:00:23","date_gmt":"2024-11-22T13:00:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/websitemigration.xyz\/construction-equipment-downtime\/"},"modified":"2025-02-19T10:46:42","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T15:46:42","slug":"construction-equipment-downtime","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eptura.com\/discover-more\/blog\/construction-equipment-downtime\/","title":{"rendered":"How To build a PM program for construction equipment"},"content":{"rendered":"

As construction projects grow in complexity and scale, the need for efficient and effective maintenance strategies increases exponentially. Even small delays caused by construction equipment downtime can throw a project off schedule, increasing a wide range of costs. With a comprehensive preventive maintenance (PM) program backed by a modern software solution, construction professionals can reduce the risks connected to breakdowns.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why is equipment downtime so costly in construction?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Downtime equipment in construction is costly because of several interconnected factors.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Idle equipment leads to delayed project timelines, which can result in significant financial penalties and loss of reputation. Each day a project falls behind schedule can translate into extra costs for additional labor, material, and potential contractual fines.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The direct costs of repairing or replacing malfunctioning equipment can also be substantial. Unexpected breakdowns often require emergency repairs, which are typically more expensive than routine maintenance. Additionally, the cost of renting replacement equipment to keep the project on track can further add to expenses.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Equipment downtime disrupts the carefully planned workflow, leading to inefficiencies and reduced productivity. Remember, project management for construction generally follows the traditional waterfall model. Workers may be left idle, waiting for equipment to be repaired, which wastes valuable labor hours. This ripple effect can impact subsequent tasks, causing a domino effect of delays throughout the project.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

And frequent downtime can negatively affect the lifespan of equipment, necessitating earlier replacements and increasing long-term capital expenditures. Regular preventive maintenance is crucial to mitigate these costs by identifying and addressing potential issues before they cause significant downtime. Minimizing equipment downtime isn’t just about saving money. It’s about ensuring the overall success and profitability of construction projects.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How can construction companies calculate the true cost of equipment downtime?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

To calculate the cost of unscheduled downtime for equipment on a construction site, consider lost productivity, repair costs, and additional expenses such as rental equipment or overtime labor.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Lost productivity: <\/span><\/b>Calculate the hourly output of the equipment and multiply by the hours of downtime.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Repair costs: <\/span><\/b>Include parts, labor, and any diagnostic fees.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Additional expenses: <\/span><\/b>Include rental equipment to replace the downed machine plus any overtime labor if workers need to catch up.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, a bulldozer moves 200 cubic yards of dirt per hour. If it’s down for eight hours, that’s 1,600 cubic yards not moved. Repairing the bulldozer costs $5,000 in parts and $3,000 in labor. And renting a replacement bulldozer costs $2,000 per day, and overtime labor is $1,500.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lost productivity: 1,600 cubic yards at $2 per cubic yard = $3,200<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Repair costs: $8,000<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Additional expenses: $3,500<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Total cost of unscheduled downtime: $3,200 + $8,000 + $3,500 = $14,700<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This example is likely a best-case scenario for construction equipment downtime because it does not include the cost of the work delays between the first bulldozer breaking down and the replacement arriving. Once the work is off schedule, every other element of the project needs recalibration to meet an adjusted timeline. So, the rebar might now go in late, and the cement trucks might need to be rescheduled, too.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How can construction companies prevent unplanned downtime with preventive maintenance?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

A PM program plays an important role in keeping construction equipment online, ensuring longevity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Regular inspections allow for early detection of issues, preventing minor problems from escalating into major failures that cause significant downtime. For example, checking a crane’s hydraulic system can identify leaks or worn hoses, which are inexpensive to fix but could lead to catastrophic failures.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scheduled maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and lubrication, keep equipment running smoothly and extend their lifespan. These tasks prevent excessive wear and tear, reducing the need for premature component replacements. For example, regularly changing the engine oil on an excavator can prolong engine life, saving thousands of dollars in potential repair or replacement costs.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A PM program can also improve safety on construction sites. Well-maintained equipment is less likely to malfunction, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Inspections also ensure that safety features, like backup alarms and emergency stops, are functioning correctly.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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And well-documented maintenance records can increase resale value, providing a comprehensive history of the equipment’s condition and upkeep. In summary, preventive maintenance not only saves time and money but also promotes safety and preserves the value of construction equipment.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How does preventive maintenance software help construction companies prevent downtime?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

PM software helps with streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. Backed by the right solution, maintenance teams can:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n