How does reactive maintenance differ from planned maintenance?

Reactive maintenance is characterized by its responsive nature; it is performed only when problems or breakdowns occur. This type of maintenance is unplanned and reactive, meaning that technicians respond to immediate issues as they arise. This can lead to urgent repairs that might disrupt operations and could potentially result in higher costs due to emergency service needs and downtime.

On the other hand, planned maintenance is proactive and scheduled. This involves regular inspections, servicing, and preventative actions that are set in advance based on the operational demands and life expectancy of equipment. By conducting maintenance in a planned manner, organizations can often prevent unexpected failures, enhance efficiency, and prolong the life of their assets.

In contrast to the correct choice, other options suggest varying interpretations of these maintenance types that do not capture the essence of their differences effectively. For instance, the idea that reactive maintenance is more cost-effective overlooks the potential for increased costs due to unplanned outages and repairs. The assertion that there is no difference between the two terms ignores the fundamental distinction in their approaches. Also, while reactive maintenance may sometimes require additional personnel for urgent repairs, this is not a defining characteristic that differentiates it from planned maintenance.