The first thing an employee should do when discovering a building maintenance issue that negatively impacts his/her work area is __________.

When an employee discovers a building maintenance issue that is negatively affecting their work area, the most appropriate action is to report the situation to the supervisor. Promptly notifying the supervisor ensures that the issue is documented and can be addressed in a timely manner. This is crucial in a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) context, where active communication and quick responses to maintenance issues are key to maintaining equipment efficiency and a safe work environment.

Reporting the issue allows the supervisor to assess the situation and decide on the most effective way to resolve it, potentially involving maintenance staff or resources beyond the employee's capability. This action supports the collaborative nature of TPM, where every employee is encouraged to take part in maintaining their work environment but is also guided to do so through proper channels for more serious matters.

Additionally, addressing maintenance issues through proper reporting helps prevent further complications that could arise from ignoring the problem or attempting an unauthorized fix, both of which could lead to safety hazards or additional downtime. By reporting to the supervisor, the employee takes the right step toward ensuring both personal safety and the smooth operation of the workplace.