This publication describes the concept of Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) which is the term used to describe a systematic approach to the evaluation, design and development of cost effective maintenance programs for plant and equipment. The concept has been in existence for over 25 years originating in the civil aviation sector. The process focuses on the functionality of the plant and equipment and the critical failure mechanisms that could result in the loss of functionality. When employed effectively the process can result in the elimination of unnecessary maintenance activities and the identification and introduction of measures to address deficiencies in the maintenance program. Overall the process can result in higher levels of reliability for the plant and equipment at reduced cost and demands on finite maintenance resources. The application of the process requires interaction between the operators and the maintenance practitioners which is often lacking in traditional maintenance programs. The imposition of this discipline produces the added benefit of improved information flows between the key players in plant and equipment management with the result that maintenance activities and operational practices are better informed.--Publisher's description.