CPIM Practice Exam

What is the goal of preventive maintenance?

1. To increase production volume

2. To reduce labor costs

3. To prevent machine breakdowns

4. To maximize product variety

The correct answer is: To prevent machine breakdowns

The goal of preventive maintenance is to prevent machine breakdowns. This strategy involves regularly scheduled inspections, servicing, and replacement of parts to ensure that equipment remains in good operational condition. By proactively addressing potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, organizations can minimize unexpected downtime, enhance equipment reliability, and extend the lifespan of machinery. This approach is crucial in manufacturing and production environments where equipment availability directly impacts productivity and performance. While options like increasing production volume and maximizing product variety relate to production goals, they do not specifically focus on the maintenance and operational aspects that preventive maintenance addresses. Reducing labor costs, although a potential benefit of effective maintenance practices through improved efficiency, is not the primary goal. The main objective is firmly centered on avoiding unplanned interruptions caused by machine malfunctions, ultimately leading to more efficient operations and better resource management.