Step Zero. This is where the teams learn how the tool
operates, learn the safety aspects of tool, create a risk
assessment for working on the tool, become certified on the
safety aspects and operation of the tool and decide which loss
related metrics they will track. Safety is a major focus for this
step and the reason for this is simple. The process we are
learning is an Autonomous Maintenance process. By the end
of the process, operators will be capable of maintaining the
tool at a level that maintains a basic level of condition. This
means they will be working in areas of the tool that are not
only new to them but may expose them to certain safety
hazards. Understanding and minimizing those hazards in the
form of a risk assessment is essential. As the team completes
their risk assessment, the relevant equipment engineer must
sanction the assessment. An audit at the end of step zero is
designed to prevent progress to the next step unless everyone
on the team is safety certified and the risk assessment has
been approved. The team will also demonstrate how to safely
power up and power down the tool.