Who does not establish the frequency of equipment preventive maintenance (PM)?

The equipment operator does not establish the frequency of equipment preventive maintenance (PM) because their role primarily focuses on using the equipment safely and effectively rather than determining the technical specifications or maintenance schedules. The responsibility for setting PM frequencies typically falls to entities with a broader understanding of the equipment's operational requirements, safety standards, and regulatory compliance.

Both the equipment manufacturer and the Air Force Medical Operations Agency have a vested interest in defining maintenance schedules based on the specifications and guidelines necessary for optimal safety and performance. The manufacturer provides the technical data for the equipment, including recommended maintenance intervals based on usage patterns and reliability tests. Meanwhile, the Air Force Medical Operations Agency may set policies or guidelines that influence maintenance practices across medical facilities.

The Association of Advanced Medical Instrumentation also plays a significant role in the establishment of standards and best practices for device maintenance, including preventive measures. Their guidelines can influence the frequency with which maintenance tasks should be performed to ensure safety and efficacy.

In contrast, the equipment operator is usually not involved in these decisions and thus does not establish PM frequency. Their input may be valuable for reporting operational issues or suggesting improvements, but the technical and regulatory framework surrounding PM schedules is typically managed by manufacturers, regulatory bodies, or standards organizations.