Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct answer is preventive maintenance. This systematic routine is crucial in ensuring that all equipment operates efficiently and safely. Preventive maintenance involves regular checks, cleaning, inspections, and necessary servicing to minimize the risk of equipment failure and prolong its lifespan. This proactive approach helps identify potential problems before they lead to equipment breakdowns, which can cause operational interruptions and financial losses.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes within a food service or dietary management context. Production meetings focus on discussing operational strategies and problem-solving among team members rather than the systematic upkeep of equipment. On-the-job training refers to the process of teaching employees how to perform specific tasks on-site, which may not include equipment maintenance. Lastly, performance standards set expectations for efficiency and quality of work rather than outlining the maintenance and upkeep of equipment. Therefore, preventive maintenance is the essential routine that captures the essence of systematic cleaning, inspection, and maintenance efforts for equipment management.