Which option is NOT a step in the Classical RCM?

• A. Info collection
• B. Boundary definition
• C. System and block diagram
• D. Contingency planning

Answer: (D)

Classical RCM focuses on identifying how a system can fail and determining the maintenance actions needed to prevent those failures from affecting the required functions. Establishing the scope and understanding how the system is arranged are first essential steps. Info collection gathers data on how the system has performed, what failures have occurred, and the operating environment. Boundary definition sets what parts and functions are included in the analysis, guiding what is considered in the maintenance decisions. A system and block diagram visually maps how components relate to each function, making it easier to see where potential failure effects originate and how failures propagate through the system.

Contingency planning, while important in broader risk management and operations, is not a formal step in the Classical RCM process. RCM concentrates on selecting maintenance tasks—like preventive, predictive, or corrective actions—based on identified failure modes and their effects, rather than outlining contingency responses for unexpected events.