Fogwing Smart Manufacturing Platform

Learning Center
Asset Monitoring

What is a Standing Work Order?

Standing Work Order

A Standing Work Order (SWO) is essentially a work order that remains open for a specific period. It’s designed to manage recurring or short-duration tasks that aren’t directly tied to a particular piece of equipment. Unlike traditional work orders that are closed once the task is completed, SWOs are updated with each task completion but remain active.

Benefits of Using Standing Work Orders

  1. Increased Efficiency: By having a pre-authorized work order for routine tasks, maintenance teams can avoid the time-consuming process of creating new work orders for every occurrence. This streamlines the workflow and reduces administrative overhead.

  2. Consistency and Reliability: SWOs ensure that regular maintenance tasks are performed consistently and on schedule. This reliability helps prevent equipment failures and extends the lifespan of assets.

  3. Improved Resource Allocation: With SWOs, maintenance managers can better allocate resources, including manpower and materials, to recurring tasks. This helps in balancing the workload and optimizing the use of available resources.

  4. Enhanced Tracking and Documentation: SWOs provide a structured way to track the performance of routine maintenance tasks. This documentation is valuable for audits, compliance, and analyzing the effectiveness of maintenance strategies.

  5. Cost Savings: By preventing unexpected breakdowns and optimizing maintenance schedules, SWOs can lead to significant cost savings. Regular maintenance reduces the need for expensive emergency repairs and prolongs the life of equipment.

Applications of Standing Work Orders

  1. Manufacturing: For routine equipment inspections, lubrication, and calibration.

  2. Healthcare: To ensure regular maintenance of medical equipment and facilities.

  3. Facilities Management: For tasks such as HVAC system maintenance, cleaning, and security checks.

  4. Utilities: To manage the upkeep of infrastructure like pipelines, power lines, and water treatment facilities.

How to Implement Standing Work Orders

  1. Identify recurring tasks: Determine which tasks can be categorized as standing work orders.

  2. Create detailed work instructions: Outline the steps involved in each task clearly.

  3. Assign responsibilities: Determine who is responsible for each SWO.

  4. Set a schedule: Establish a frequency for completing the tasks.

  5. Implement a tracking system: Use a maintenance management software to monitor progress and updates.
Share Article

Get our newsletters delivered directly to your inbox.

By submitting ,you agree to Fogwing Terms of Service. Your personal data will be processed in accordance with Fogwing Privacy Policy.

Read more articles...

Scroll to Top