The field of non-destructive testing (NDT) is highly innovative, using advanced technologies for inspection, data collection, analysis, and reporting. And while the instruments and techniques used for NDT are impressive, leaders in the industry recognize that the integrity of test results starts and ends with the people behind the process. That's why it is critical to create schedules that not only ensure every job is properly staffed, but also allow your crew to deliver safe, efficient, accurate results on each and every project. Here are some ways workforce scheduling software helps NDT teams maintain efficient, effective operations.

NDT companies work with clients that offer around-the-clock service, including oil & gas, pipeline, construction, energy, power, and nuclear. To accommodate the needs of their customers, NDT companies often operate 24/7. Because of this, it is imperative that employees always have access to up-to-the-minute schedules. Online workforce scheduling software provides anytime, anywhere access to real-time schedules from any mobile device. So, even when technicians and inspectors are in the field, supervisors have peace of mind knowing every team member always has the most current schedule information.

With online workforce scheduling software, the schedule is automatically updated when changes are made. ScheduleAnywhere even alerts employees when their schedule has been affected by a change, so managers don't spend time making calls or sending messages to notify them. The software also includes a free mobile app, so employees can submit schedule requests remotely, and managers can view staffing needs and make last-minute changes if necessary. This makes it the ideal workforce scheduling solution for 24/7 operations with employees who work in the field.

Non-destructive testing is a demanding profession. High-stress situations can easily lead to mental and physical exhaustion. In addition to ongoing exposure to harsh conditions, including flammable gases, heights, and chemical and electrical hazards, a career in the NDT industry also means irregular work schedules and long hours. Online workforce scheduling software allows managers to create and post schedules out in advance, which helps employees plan ahead and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Most NDT technology is operator reliant, so the integrity of test results depends on the performance of your crew. According to OSHA, worker fatigue increases the risk for errors, as well as illnesses and injuries. Additionally, it lowers productivity - costing employers $136.4 billion dollars annually. Workforce  scheduling software makes staffing calculations according to the operation's specific requirements, ensuring every work site is staffed with the right number of properly skilled technicians, quality assurance specialists, and inspectors. This means your crew has the resources necessary to perform each job accurately and safely, without incurring unnecessary overtime.

Having the right people in the right places is critical for accurate testing and interpretations. Managers must ensure that each work site is staffed with employees who have the experience, knowledge, skills, and certifications necessary for each job. Making sure every employee is qualified to perform their assigned duties is also essential for supporting regulatory compliance. Employee scheduling software that allows you to  assign skills, training, and certifications to each employee helps put the appropriate set of expertise at every work site. For added security, ScheduleAnywhere sends alerts to managers when certifications are nearing expiration or when employees are due for training. The software also allows supervisors to organize and view the information most important to them on one screen, making it easy for them to stay on top of key scheduling and compliance information.

Your employees aren't sitting at desks every day; often, they aren't even in the facility. When you have a mobile workforce, you need mobile workforce schedules to keep everyone on the same page. Workforce scheduling software, and workforce scheduling apps ensure everyone has schedule access whether they are in the office, at a lab, or in the field. They also allow managers to share schedules with one another and see who is scheduled when and where across the entire operation. This reduces the risk of problems such as double-booked crew members or improperly staffed work sites. ScheduleAnywhere also includes an integrated messaging system, which allows managers to instantly communicate with staff via email and text message. This helps managers alert staff of schedule changes as well as quickly fill open shifts.

Non-destructive testing professionals work hard to ensure the materials, products, and equipment we use every day are functional and safe. Finding the workforce scheduling software that provides them 24/7 access to schedules and best meets the requirements of their NDT operation is critical.  

Click here to learn how ScheduleAnywhere workforce scheduling software works for non-destructive testing operations' unique scheduling requirements.