Star warns against neglecting maintenance
UK: Star Refrigeration is urging customers to continue to carry out planned preventative maintenance (PPM) of plant and equipment during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Glasgow-based refrigeration company says its nationwide engineering team is continuing to provide a support service for food production, processing, storage and distribution in line with government guidance. Star is also providing critical repair and maintenance for cooling systems in key industries, including healthcare and IT/communications.
Star is advising existing customers that they should continue to carry out plant maintenance, as deferring site visits by refrigeration engineers could have an adverse effect over time. The company recommends that all current maintenance schedules are followed for as long as possible during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Some businesses may be thinking about making cutbacks or deferring maintenance visits at this difficult time, but we are urging customers to consider the future financial implications of such decisions,” said Star Refrigeration operations director James Ward.
“Our experience demonstrates that a lack of refrigeration plant maintenance can lead to longer periods of downtime at the point of failure. Without ongoing preventative maintenance, customers increase the risk of unplanned downtime due to faults and poor running conditions. Plant repair and downtime creates additional costs and can have a significant detrimental effect on business.
“Duty holders must also consider the ongoing regulatory and legislative compliance of operating refrigeration and HVAC equipment. Despite the demanding circumstances, compliance with occupational health and safety legal requirements remains and the necessary inspections and corrective actions should be carried out.”
Star is currently working to provide critical repair and maintenance services to essential industries and is also committed to carrying out maintenance and service work for existing customers, to ensure continuity and compliance with refrigeration industry regulations.
“Whilst our team is prioritising critical engineering activities in essential industries, we have an ongoing commitment to provide all customers with an appropriate level of service,” said James Ward.
