No. Preventative maintenance does not replace the need for repairs. It is designed to reduce the risk of unexpected failures, not eliminate them entirely. If potential issues are identified during a preventative maintenance visit, MES documents the findings and works with the laboratory to determine next steps if repair service is needed. This approach helps labs address problems early rather than reacting to unplanned equipment downtime.

Preventative maintenance does not automatically include replacement parts. During a preventative maintenance visit, technicians inspect equipment, assess wear, and document findings using a standardized PM checklist. If parts replacement or repair is recommended, MES reviews the findings with the laboratory before any additional service is scheduled. This ensures transparency and helps avoid unexpected costs.

Yes. Preventative maintenance can be scheduled around laboratory operations. MES coordinates visits in advance and aligns service timing with lab workflows to minimize disruption. Maintenance frequency and timing are tailored based on equipment type, usage patterns, and operational needs, allowing laboratories to maintain productivity while keeping equipment properly serviced.

Preventative maintenance is often required or expected under laboratory accreditation standards, regulatory guidelines, manufacturer recommendations, or internal quality policies, depending on the laboratory type and equipment in use. Organizations such as CAP, CLIA, and ISO do not mandate a single maintenance schedule for all equipment, but they do require laboratories to demonstrate that equipment is properly maintained and monitored. During audits, documented preventative maintenance records are commonly reviewed as evidence of compliance. MES provides documented preventative maintenance checklists that support audit readiness, internal quality programs, and equipment performance tracking.

Most oversight organizations require laboratory equipment to receive preventative maintenance at least once per year. The exact frequency and scope depend on the equipment type, manufacturer recommendations, usage level, and individual laboratory policies. During inspections or audits, documented preventative maintenance records are reviewed to confirm that equipment is properly maintained and functioning as intended. MES provides documented preventative maintenance checklists to support compliance, audit readiness, and reliable equipment performance.