What is preventive maintenance?

Preventive maintenance is best defined as a proactive approach involving regular, scheduled maintenance. This strategy is designed to prevent equipment breakdown, thereby reducing the risk of unexpected failures and extending the life of the equipment. By adhering to a consistent maintenance schedule, organizations can address potential issues before they escalate into major problems, ensuring smoother operations and minimizing downtime.

Regular maintenance tasks may include inspections, adjustments, cleaning, lubrications, and replacements of worn parts, all performed at predetermined intervals based on the manufacturer's recommendations or historical performance data. This method not only enhances reliability but also contributes to improved safety and efficiency in the operation of equipment.

In contrast, approaches based on equipment failures focus on reactive maintenance, which is typically more costly and less efficient, as it deals with issues only after they occur. Predictive analysis, while valuable, is not solely about routine maintenance; it relies on data and trends to anticipate failures rather than performing scheduled tasks. Ignoring routine maintenance is counterproductive and can lead to increased wear and tear of equipment, making it an ineffective strategy. Thus, preventive maintenance as a proactive approach is integral to effective maintenance management.