If minor damage is found on equipment, what is the protocol?

When minor damage is found on equipment, the appropriate protocol typically allows the equipment to remain in service, provided that the damage does not compromise its safety or functionality. This means that if the integrity of the equipment is intact and it is still capable of performing its intended function without posing a risk to operators or the load, it can continue to be used.

In practice, minor damage might include superficial scratches or small dents that do not affect the structural integrity or operational safety of the equipment. It is essential, however, to follow up with regular inspections to ensure that the condition of the equipment does not worsen and that it continues to operate safely.

The other options imply more severe actions that may be unnecessary for minor damage, such as taking the equipment out of service or repairing it immediately, which could lead to unnecessary downtime and loss of productivity if the equipment is still suitable for use. Monitoring closely can be helpful but, in many cases of minor damage, continuous service can be a viable option as long as safety assessments are made.