What does 'deferred maintenance' imply in RCM?

In the context of Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM), the term 'deferred maintenance' pertains to the postponement of necessary maintenance activities. When maintenance is deferred, it often leads to a scenario where the equipment or system becomes more likely to fail, because the timely upkeep that ensures proper functioning is not occurring. This delay can result in a variety of negative outcomes, such as escalating repair costs and potential safety risks, as undetected issues can develop into more significant problems over time.

Understanding the implications of deferred maintenance is critical in RCM, as it ultimately affects reliability and operational efficiency. By recognizing the risks associated with postponing maintenance, organizations can make informed decisions about resource allocation and prioritizing maintenance activities to prevent costly failures and ensure system reliability.