What does "secondary damage" refer to in maintenance context?

In the maintenance context, "secondary damage" refers to collateral damage that occurs as a result of a primary failure. When a piece of equipment or machinery fails, it can trigger a series of additional issues that can damage other components or systems. This type of damage is not the result of the initial breakdown itself but rather the consequences that unfold due to that breakdown. For example, if a shaft fails, it could lead to misalignment or additional stresses on adjacent parts, which would not have occurred if the initial failure hadn’t happened.

Understanding secondary damage is critical in maintenance strategies, as it highlights the importance of addressing not just the immediate failure but also its potential ripple effects. This perspective helps maintenance teams to implement more comprehensive monitoring and preventive measures, reducing the risk of further complications and additional costs.