In Max Time milking, a cow is considered milked once a working set of cups has been properly attached for a full lap of the platform, set at an appropriate speed, or if the cups detach automatically.

Cows must not leave the platform until they have been milked.

She has NOT been milked when:

Platform speed is too fast.

Ask your manager what the platform speed is. Communicate with your milking partner to achieve and maintain speed throughout milking. Inform team leader if more than 10% of clusters are being removed.

Clusters are not functioning properly.

Vacuum and pulsation check must be completed before the start of milking. If you suspect a cluster is not working during milking; test vacuum and pulsation. If repairs cannot be completed contact your supervisor immediately.

Cow is cupped on too late or taken off too early.

Adhere to correct cupping method at all times. Cup cows within designated cupping zone. Remove cups as late as possible.

Cups are kicked or fall off early.

Ensure cows are cupped correctly FIRST TIME - refer to the correct and safe cupping method.

Muddy teats preventing cups attaching properly.

Clean teats with paper towel before attaching cups. Inform team leader immediately if more than 50% of cows have muddy teats.

Signs a cow has NOT been milked:

Full, bloated quarters.

Teat end is closed.

Milk leaking from one or more teat ends.

Milk gushing out of teat end when gently squeezed between thumb and index finger.

Retention bar down: Milk yield has not been met.

Uneven quarters: check cups are vacuuming and pulsating and check quarters for mastitis.

Signs a cow HAS been been milked:

All quarters are empty and appear saggy.

Teat end is open but not leaking milk.

Milk does not gush out when the teat is pinched between thumb and forefinger.

Retention bar is up.