The construction market is experiencing a rise in electric heavy equipment, but the demand for servicing these machines will likely remain low for the foreseeable future. This is due to the fact that electric machines require less frequent maintenance compared to diesel models and are still relatively new in the industry.
However, the need for servicing electric construction equipment is expected to increase over time, following the trend seen with electric cars, buses, trucks, and other common on-road electric vehicles. Therefore, if you manage a heavy equipment service department, it is essential to start preparing your technicians and workshop for the proper and safe maintenance of electric construction equipment.
If your organization sells electric construction equipment, the manufacturer should provide guidance and training on maintenance and service procedures. For independent service providers, undergoing training from the manufacturer is strongly recommended before conducting any service or maintenance tasks.
Outlined below are the key roles involved in servicing Volvo EVs and electric construction equipment of all types, along with three steps to initiate the process.
- Establish work roles: Identifying the responsibilities of each team member involved in the servicing of electric machines is crucial for creating a safe work environment. Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with electric construction equipment, and defining clear roles ensures a smoother operation.
To provide examples of the roles to be assigned:
-
-
- Overall Electric Responsible (Level 1): This individual, often in a senior management position, is responsible for overseeing the sale and service of electric machines.
- Skilled Person (Level 2): These experts, such as engineering trainers and technical writers, contribute to the development of procedures and work closely with the EV manufacturer (e.g., Volvo).
- Electric Product Responsible (Level 3): Serving as the service manager, this role involves planning risk assessments, ensuring appropriate training and certifications for electrical work, and delegating tasks to Level 4 certified technicians.
- Work Activity Responsible (Level 4): Technicians at this level are authorized to decommission and commission machines to ensure safety during servicing. Initially, there may be one technician in this role, but as the number of electric machines serviced increases, additional technicians may be trained.
- Instructed Technician (Level 5): This role includes non-Level 4 certified technicians who can assist in tasks like parts replacement after machines have been deemed safe for maintenance.
-
» … rnrn