Lubrication Reliability Checklist

Maintaining optimal lubrication reliability is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, longevity, and performance of your machinery. This comprehensive checklist is designed to help you implement best practices across the entire lubrication process—from storage and identification to filtration, transfer, and inspection. Use it as a practical reference to enhance reliability, reduce contamination, and promote operational excellence.

1. Consolidation of Packaging and Lubricants

• Centralised storage for better organisation
• Standardised packaging (e.g. 200-litre drums)
• Use of larger packaging where possible
• Rationalise lubricant types – less is more

2. Reception Control

• Verify lubricant type and date upon arrival
• Inspect for damaged packaging
• Check for contamination (ISO 4406 cleanliness level)

3. Proper Identification

• Use colour coding to prevent cross-contamination
•  Clearly label type, brand, internal order code
•  Indicate viscosity and application
•  Note date of reception and first use

4. Pre-Filtering of New Oil

• Filter to required ISO 4406 level before storage
• Use kidney loop during drum or tank transfer
• Select filters based on application needs

5. Proper Storage Environment

• Store in a clean, dedicated lubrication room—not outdoors
• Maintain constant temperature and humidity
• Ensure organisation, safety, and efficiency
• Keep away from contamination-prone production areas
• Avoid absorbents like pellets or sawdust; use proper materials
• Equip with regulatory spill containment systems

6. Suitable Storage Containers

• Use manufacturer-supplied drums and containers (horizontal/vertical)
• Opt for rust-free, translucent plastic tanks
• Use coated steel tanks with visible oil levels
• Stainless steel tanks with level indicators are ideal

7. Lubricant Protection Measures

• Fit breather-dryers to block moisture and dirt
• Ensure containers and tanks are fully sealed
• Use caps and plugs on grease nipples and connectors

8. Transfer and Dispensing

• Prefer closed-loop tank-to-dispensing systems
• Use fully sealable dispensing equipment to maintain cleanliness
• Filter lubricants during both transfer and dispensing

9. Ongoing Lubrication Inspections

• Check oil levels regularly (min-max range)
• Inspect water separation sight glasses and drainage taps
• Monitor oil quality through regular analysis
• Check for lubricant or grease leaks
• Inspect storage conditions (e.g. open drums, dirty connectors, missing caps)
• Monitor grease levels in automatic lubricators
• Watch for blocked grease lines
• Observe filter saturation indicators
• Collect filter samples and photos for FMEA analysis
• Inspect breather-dryers for saturation