What is a key feature of preventive maintenance?

A key feature of preventive maintenance is its proactive approach to managing equipment and facilities. The primary goal is to extend the lifespan of facilities by conducting regular inspections, servicing, and addressing potential issues before they lead to equipment failure. This systematic approach helps to minimize downtime and costly repairs, ensuring that facilities operate efficiently.

In contrast, other options highlight approaches that do not align with the concept of preventive maintenance. For instance, maintenance that occurs only after equipment fails represents a reactive strategy, which is the opposite of being proactive. The notion that preventive maintenance requires a large budget is misleading, as it often proves more cost-effective in the long run by preventing major repairs. Lastly, scheduling that is random does not support the structured and planned nature of preventive maintenance. Effective preventive maintenance relies on a systematic schedule based on equipment usage and manufacturer recommendations, rather than arbitrary timing.