TITLE
Consider a memorandum/resolution to purchase mechanic toolkits for Fleet Services.
SUMMARY
AGENDA ITEM
Fleet Services mechanic toolkits
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
Support Services
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Fleet Services needs to provide the mechanics with effective toolkits and has a unique, resource-efficient, and time-sensitive opportunity to purchase quality toolsets at a significant discount from a national distributor.
The conduct of effective, safe, and timely maintenance operations often hinges on two factors - first, mechanic experience and training and, second, quality facilities and tools. There is no national standard regarding the responsibility to provide mechanic basic toolkits; however, the decision to offload that responsibility to employees can negatively impact an organization's ability to standardize maintenance operations, facilitate training, ensure correct tool-to-task linkages, minimize tool wear and tear, maximize availability of serviceable tools, and enhance employee safety.
The City of Killeen purchases tools for its team of thirteen mechanics. In the past, when replacement tools became difficult to obtain, mechanics brought tools from home in order to complete assigned tasks. Fleet Services eventually purged these tools because of the confusion that mixed ownership creates in terms of accountability; existing toolkits are now a varied mix of older tools from Lowes (Kobalt), Sears (Craftsman), and Napa (Blackhawk). Replacements are purchased individually and as required. Fleet Services has sustained the use of a common tool room consisting of specialty tools.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION
Snap-on is a leading national tool producer and a member of the State of Texas cooperative purchasing network. Research confirms that Snap-on has an excellent reputation and is considered by many professional mechanics to be the gold-standard of tools. Snap-on also uses mobile teams to facilitate timely customer ...
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