Are existing full flow filters capable of meeting the equipment manufacturer's specifications or have these filters been replaced with less expensive jobber filters, whose quality and efficiency ratings may be questionable?
Are all lubricants pre filtered before being added to a system?
Are all breathers, filter bypass indicators, external seals and other contamination control devices operating properly, and are they inspected regularly and serviced when necessary?
Are only top quality, specified fluids and lubricants used and are they stored properly in a clean environment?
Are all leaks repaired as quickly as possible, particularly those in dirty environments?
Is the entire system thoroughly flushed and serviced completely, after any major component failure and subsequent replacement is carried out?
When flushing is carried out, particularly on a hydraulic system, is the reservoir opened and thoroughly cleaned by hand?
Are all replacement components thoroughly cleaned, before they are installed?
Is the immediate working area thoroughly cleaned, before opening up any area of a system?
When fittings, hose connections and valve ports are opened or disconnected, are these connections immediately capped with clean, effective plugs?
When cleaning or flushing of components or systems is carried out, is the flushing fluid clean?
Are lubricated systems monitored on a regular basis to ensure that they are operating at the correct temperatures?
Are the maintenance personnel and technicians trained in correct contamination control techniques? Do they fully understand the need for cleanliness?
Are maintenance personnel consistently required to wear clean clothing and use clean tools and equipment?
This list is an excerpt from "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication"