Repair Word On Book Page Dreamstime Xxl 151699280 5f8ef00980d72

Maintenance, Repair & Operations

Defining a Repair

Oct. 20, 2020

A repair can mean different things to different people.

When you say something needs to be repaired, does everyone know what you mean? Not necessarily. A repair can mean:

Just get it running again because we have a deadline to meet.
Restore it to its previous condition (which might not be adequate for the conditions of use).
Fix only what’s broken.
Fix what’s broken and recondition as needed while you’re in there.
Replace not only the bad part, but also all replaceable parts.
Restore it to OEM condition.

Which of these is the correct definition? That depends on the equipment, age and condition of replaceable parts, conditions of use, cost analysis, available time, available parts, and many other factors. With so many dynamics involved, two technicians confronting the same situation will likely apply different definitions. It is possible to have two correct definitions, two incorrect definitions, or one correct and one incorrect definition.

Create a repair decision model that helps technicians avoid using an incorrect definition and train them in its use.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.