Operator Duties - continued.

All industrial plants provide lubricants to be used by the operators and the maintenance technicians.

New operators should learn how the lubricants are stored, labeled and used. They should also learn how to protect lubricants from contamination, such as dust and moisture. If a lubricant drum is left open in a working area, it is bound to get contaminated. Lubricants should be stored in a cool and dry location which is not subjected to excessive ambient dust.

Usually lubricating oils are available in large 55-gallon drums. The upper side of the drum is provided with two holes, one is used to connect a spigot and the other is used to connect a breather (desiccant and filter assembly). For ease of handling, these drums are placed horizontally in drum racks. The spigot is at the lower end while the vent connection is at the upper end. This makes it very easy to draw oil in a can for daily usage.