Operational maintenance

This category of operational maintenance normally consists of inspecting, cleaning, servicing, preserving, lubricating, and adjusting, as required.

Its purpose is threefold: (1) to make the operator aware of the state of readiness of the equipment; (2) to reduce the delays that would occur if a qualified technician had to be called every time a simple adjustment were needed; and (3) to release technicians for more complicated work This form of preventative maintenance can be performed in any setting where machines, equipment, or vehicles are used.

In many commercial buildings, heating and cooling engineers perform operational maintenance tasks on furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners.

Basic cleaning, including removing debris or excess grease from a machine, is also considered part of operational maintenance.

Operational maintenance may entail keeping machinery well lubricated to reduce the risk of friction or failure.