What is the goal of preventative maintenance?

The primary goal of preventative maintenance is to minimize unplanned downtime through regular maintenance. This proactive approach focuses on routine checks, inspections, and tasks designed to keep equipment and systems running smoothly, preventing unexpected failures that can disrupt operations. By implementing a schedule of regular maintenance activities, facility managers can identify potential issues before they escalate into significant problems, thereby ensuring that systems remain reliable and operational. This not only enhances overall efficiency but also reduces the likelihood of costly repairs and extended periods of inactivity.

The other options, while they may have some relevance in broader maintenance practices, do not align with the primary aim of preventative maintenance. Repairing systems after they fail can lead to significant downtime, which preventative maintenance seeks to avoid. Extending warranties on equipment is primarily a financial consideration, and while it can provide some security, it does not relate directly to maintenance practices. Training staff on equipment use is beneficial for operational effectiveness, but it does not specifically pertain to the strategies involved in preventative maintenance.