Which of the following is NOT part of an effective preventive maintenance program?

• A. Repairing a broken chain drive after it fails
• B. Lubricating critical bearings regularly
• C. Replacing worn seals
• D. Checking fluid levels weekly

Answer: (A)

Preventive maintenance aims to keep equipment reliable by doing planned care before problems arise. Regular lubrication of critical bearings reduces friction and wear, extending life and preventing failures. Replacing worn seals before leaks occur protects integrity and prevents contamination. Checking fluid levels weekly helps catch low levels or issues early, avoiding damage from insufficient lubrication or cooling.

Repairing a broken chain drive after it fails is reactive maintenance. It addresses a problem only after it has happened, often causing downtime and potential collateral damage. That post-failure approach doesn’t prevent the issue and thus isn’t part of an effective preventive maintenance program.