Which type of maintenance occurs when repairs are made after a breakdown?

The type of maintenance that involves making repairs after a breakdown is known as corrective maintenance. This approach is typically reactive, meaning that it takes place after a failure has occurred, with the primary goal of restoring the equipment or system to its normal operating condition. Corrective maintenance is essential in managing equipment failures, as it addresses issues that arise unexpectedly and requires immediate attention to minimize downtime and ensure safety.

In contrast, scheduled maintenance refers to planned inspections and servicing carried out at regular intervals to prevent failures before they happen. Preventive maintenance is similar but focuses on routine tasks aimed at prolonging the lifespan of equipment and reducing the likelihood of breakdowns altogether. Emergency maintenance is a more urgent form of corrective maintenance, often required in critical situations where immediate action is necessary to avert further damage or risk. However, corrective maintenance encompasses all repairs made after a failure, whether planned or in response to an emergency. This understanding highlights the reactive nature of corrective maintenance versus the proactive measures taken in scheduled and preventive maintenance.