Fake items: Real problem

The worst winter for decades, a volcanic ash cloud that grounded planes for days, the implementation of stringent spending cuts.... 2010 has not been an easy year and for many companies survival rather than growth has been the name of the game.

Not specific to 2010, but a problem that has grown rapidly over the past couple of decades is that of counterfeiting and, when it comes to industrial products such as seals and bearings, faked items can pose a genuine safety threat.

Counterfeiters are becoming more proficient at reproducing markings and packaging such that even the genuine manufacturer of the goods struggles to distinguish fake from real. It's only when the part is installed that problems arise with component failure, downtime and safety just some of the issues.

Good news then that the World Bearing Association has launched an awareness campaign to inform about potential safety hazards arising from counterfeit bearings. Its website - www.stopfakebearings.com - explains more about the dangers. The answer, of course, is to make sure that, when sourcing spare parts, they come from an authorised distributor or direct from the company.

For those looking for genuine maintenance products, easyFairs MAINTEC 2011 (29 to 31 March, NEC) will be showcasing the latest in maintenance technology, and Western Business Publishing is delighted to be handling the ERIKS MAINTEC SUMMIT of conferences. These will cover a wide range of topics, all designed to help reduce downtime and risk and boost business competitiveness - surely the aim for all companies as we approach what we hope will be a happier New Year.

Val Kealey
IPE Editor