What is an equipment preventive maintenance program?

• A. A plan to replace equipment after failure
• B. A cleaning schedule only
• C. A scheduled plan of inspections and servicing to prevent breakdowns
• D. A training program for operators

Answer: (C)

A preventive maintenance program is a proactive, scheduled approach to caring for equipment. It includes planned inspections, servicing, lubrication, calibrations, and part replacements at set intervals or based on usage, all aimed at preventing breakdowns before they happen. This differs from waiting for something to fail, which is reactive maintenance, and from a cleaning-only routine, which doesn’t address the functional health of the equipment. It also isn’t a training program for operators, which focuses on knowledge rather than the physical upkeep of gear. By following a PM program, you catch wear and tear early, reduce downtime, extend equipment life, and help ensure safety and consistent performance. In practice, it uses manufacturer recommendations, past performance data, and risk assessments to set tasks and frequencies, with records to show tasks were completed.