Step 10:
Knowledge management
Knowledge management closes the lubrication reliability loop: it ensures that your team retains and applies critical lubrication know-how. Without structured training, documentation, and cultural alignment, even the best lubrication systems deteriorate over time.
Why knowledge matters in lubrication
Achieving lubrication excellence begins with knowledge. A lack of understanding - even among experienced staff - remains one of the most frequent causes of lubrication errors such as wrong oil selection, contamination, and misapplication.
Lubretec promotes a proactive learning culture, where every team member - from operators to engineers - receives continuous training in lubrication best practices.
“How do I ensure knowledge isn’t lost when people leave?”
Document everything in standard operating procedures (SOPs) and knowledge bases. Use one-point lessons, visual guides, and skill assessments. For key roles, certification as Machine Lubrication Technicians (MLT) or Machine Lubricant Analysts (MLA) ensures technical continuity.
A structured framework - including SOPs, job aids, and reference guides - builds consistency:
By documenting each lifecycle stage, you create clarity and accountability across teams.
Training must be multi-level and embedded:
Provide basic lubrication training for all maintenance and operations staff
Upskill key individuals to MLT and MLA certification
Use task-based refresher training - ‘brain and train’ sessions - to reinforce core skills
Incorporate Lubrication Management Software to centralise procedures and learning resources
"The best weapon against poor reliability is knowledge."
Use tools like Ascend™ to benchmark and assess your lubrication program against best-practice standards such as ICML 55.1 and ISO 55001.
Progress through defined lifecycle stages and track improvements with metrics and continuous audits.
Training alone is not enough - you must embed behaviour change. Cultural transformation means making precision lubrication part of "the way we do things here" :
Lubretec can help you design and deliver a robust knowledge management strategy, including training programmes, certification pathways, and documentation tools.
Contact us today to elevate your lubrication team’s skills.
