This framework guides your team through every stage of the lubricant lifecycle - selection, storage, application, monitoring, and improvement - supported with documentation, training, technology, and continuous refinement.
Begin with proper product selection. Match lubricant types to operating conditions - temperature, load, speed - and consider environmental impact, usability, and performance. Select seal types, breathers, and filtration that align with longevity and contamination control goals. Collaborate with trusted suppliers to ensure consistency and technical expertise.
Establish procedures for receiving and inspecting new lubricants. Document batch numbers, verify purity, and store in sealed, labelled containers with proper spill-protection trays. Store by category to prevent cross-use and contamination.
Develop clear SOPs for lubricant application. Specify correct volumes and intervals per equipment. Use tools like LubePM-style digital routes or route scheduling systems to ensure consistent and accurate application. Integrate colour-coding and checklist controls.
Include contamination removal strategies: filtration, breathers, spill control, and storage housekeeping. Monitor oil cleanliness using ISO 4406 particle counts and perform root-cause analysis when deviations occur.
Implement scheduled oil analysis (viscosity, particle count, wear metals, TAN/TBN, water) to determine oil and machine condition. Use data to drive decision-making and predict maintenance needs.
Follow environmentally responsible procedures for draining, recycling, or disposing of spent lubricants. Aim to extend oil life through filtration or additive supplementation, rather than premature change.
Capture all workflows in SOPs, visual job aids, checklists, and route maps. Maintain a central knowledge base—digital or paper—and embed documentation in daily practices.
Provide foundational training on lubricant science and correct techniques. Offer advanced certification for lubrication technicians (MLT, MLA). Reinforce skills with practical ‘brain and train’ sessions and refresher courses.
Adopt platforms like LubePM or Redlist to schedule tasks, track lubricant use, assign procedures, and log performance metrics. Integrate with CMMS/EAM for seamless data flow. This centralises learning, audit trails, and traceability.
Define KPIs - such as compliance rate, lubricant consumption, contamination levels, training completion, and uptime. Regularly audit programme performance, analyse root causes, and refine processes.