In what scenarios is corrective maintenance typically performed?

Corrective maintenance is performed specifically in response to equipment failures. This type of maintenance addresses issues that arise after a malfunction has occurred, aiming to restore the equipment to its operational state. It is often unplanned and reactive, focusing on diagnosing and fixing problems that have already affected the usability and efficiency of equipment.

Option C aligns with the fundamental definition of corrective maintenance because it emphasizes the necessity of action only after an equipment failure. This contrasts with preventive maintenance, which is scheduled and designed to prevent failures before they happen, and routine maintenance, which is typically conducted on a regular, periodic basis to ensure equipment remains in operational condition. Thus, recognizing corrective maintenance as a reaction to failure highlights its role in the larger maintenance strategy for equipment reliability.