Abstract

The South African Institution of Civil Engineering has released a fourth infrastructure report which highlights the deteriorating state of the country's rail network infrastructure. Lack of maintenance has been identified as the root cause of this problem, leading to a decline in the efficiency and competitiveness of the transportation sector. The current state of the infrastructure is expected to increase infrastructure failures, maintenance costs, train cancellations, and operating costs. To address capacity demand and maintain quality services, it is essential to adopt effective maintenance management tactics. This study aims to evaluate the maturity level of maintenance management in the South African rail network industry and identify any deficiencies and opportunities to enhance the existing maintenance processes. This will help to improve the maintenance function, leading to a reduction in infrastructure deterioration. The study conducted an exploratory quantitative survey to assess the overall maturity level of maintenance management in the South African rail network industry, and it was found to be at level 3. Technological knowledge in the organization seems to be in its early stages. The organization needs to change its perspective on technology and invest in technological advancements to improve the maturity level of this element.