What is preventive maintenance defined as?

Preventive maintenance is best defined as routine servicing at predetermined intervals. This approach focuses on scheduling maintenance activities, such as inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs, before equipment fails. By performing maintenance on a regular basis, organizations aim to extend the lifespan of equipment, enhance reliability, and reduce the likelihood of unplanned downtime or equipment failure. This proactive strategy allows for the identification and correction of potential issues before they escalate into major problems, ultimately improving overall operational efficiency and reducing costs associated with repairs and lost production time.

The emphasis on routine servicing at set intervals is crucial in maintaining equipment in optimal working condition and aligning with Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles, which highlight the importance of preventive actions to support operational excellence.