An additional ten spare engines were introduced, making up a total of 145 now stocked in the Spare Engines Bank. Out of the ten, eight were cannibalised from vehicles being written off. Also during the year, the layout of the engine overhauling shops was reorganised and new machines installed. Improved repairing standards and output of engine overhauling services have been achieved.
8.20 The annual overhauling periods of Urban Council Swimming Pools were re-scheduled and reduced from three months to two by better planning of the maintenance and overhauling programmes, and also by the availability of glass-lined diaphragm valves from the valve bank established last year.
8.21 A new type of tungsten filament shock resistant lamp bulb was introduced for traffic aids, subways and pier lights. The cost is about 40% higher than for ordinary lamps but life expectancy is three times as long. They will be introduced into all Government installations, with a resultant reduction in maintenance cost and fault attendances.
8.22 An investigation was commenced into manpower utilisation and work evaluation on maintenance and overhauling services for all small and unmanned plants in Government installations. Division of responsibilities between the various Workshops Sections and the Plant Operation Sub-Division should be soon finalised, the aim being to achieve the most efficient and effective maintenance services with minimum manpower and supporting facilities.
8.23 The Section continued to provide Government Supplies Department with technical data and equipment lists from which forecasts of adequate spares holdings can be made. A new system was devised whereby stores ordered but not delivered are reported upon monthly, enabling the Section to pursue delivery.
Equipment Evaluation Section
8.24 This Section acts as a general consultant on all matters pertaining to minor electrical and mechanical equipment purchased by various Government Departments. All tenders and orders for such equipment are vetted to ensure general acceptability and to prevent purchase of diverse makes of the same items necessitating large spare parts holdings. A total of 536 tenders of a total value of $10.44 million was processed during the year. Technical advice was given and specifications prepared in respect of over 300 items of miscellaneous electrical and mechanical equipment.
Quality Control Section
8.25 Quality control in Workshops could not be properly implemented due to staff shortage but tasks undertaken included preparation of various specifications; investigation and reports on mechanical failures, sub-standard equipment or products; investigation, tests and reports on various commercial products normally used for mechanical or domestic application by the Workshops.
Vehicle Design and Procurement Section
8.26 This Section is responsible for the preparation of vehicle and mobile plant specifications, including specialised plant and equipment,