b. The manufacturer's operating and maintenance manual that accompanies
each piece of equipment should be placed within a protective cover and kept readily
available. If a manual contains maintenance procedures beyond those for which the
operator is responsible, it should be so marked. You will be taught to operate and clean
the equipment and to perform preventive maintenance strictly in accordance with the
manufacturer's manual. In preventive maintenance, for example, over-oiling some
pieces of equipment can be just as harmful as no oiling.
(1) Preventive maintenance is the systematic (regular and planned) care,
inspection, and servicing of equipment. The purpose of preventive maintenance is to
find and correct possible problems with equipment before it quits working. Minor
maintenance is also done during preventive maintenance checks. Preventive
maintenance is your job. It is everyone's job. It really means continuous inspection of
equipment. In your normal duty routine in CMS, you should be alert to any abuse, any
unusual sound or smell, or any other indication that a piece of equipment is not
operating properly or is being misused. You should report any problems to the chief
specialist (NCOIC). In CMS, a definite schedule is made for inspecting, cleaning,
lubricating, tightening, and adjusting all equipment. You should follow the
manufacturer's instructions on the care of each piece of equipment. The medical
maintenance personnel also inspect all equipment on a regular basis in accordance with
local policy as a part of preventive maintenance. Records on this maintenance are
kept. A good preventive maintenance program will ensure:
(a)
Better operating equipment.
(b)
Longer life of equipment.
(c)
Fewer emergency calls for repair.
(d) Safety for both patients and hospital personnel.
(2) Operating instructions should be with each piece of equipment issued by
CMS to using units. Manufacturers are required to incorporate safety measures in their
equipment and include detailed instruction on the maintenance, installation, and
operation of equipment. You should be briefed by manufacturers, medical
maintenance, and other appropriate personnel on new equipment.
(3) Usually, a certain part of each day is set aside for preventive
maintenance on the fixed equipment (not portable, stays in CMS) used in CMS. A
schedule is made to ensure all equipment is checked regularly. The Medical
Maintenance Section of Logistics/Supply and Service Division provides maintenance on
equipment that cannot be repaired or serviced by personnel in CMS. Local standing
operating procedures will define these requirements. Use DA Form 2407 (Maintenance
Request) (see figure 2-6) to request maintenance on equipment.
MD0937
2-13
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