Final answer:
The recommended duration for keeping an archive of PMS schedule in SKED is a minimum of 2 years, but this can be longer based on company policies and legal requirements. Digital backups are beneficial for easy retrieval and efficient storage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The duration for keeping an archive of Planned Maintenance System (PMS) schedule in SKED (Shipboard non-tactical Automated Data Processing Program Planned Maintenance System Scheduling and Documentation program) heavily depends on the specific requirements of an organization, such as a ship's operational procedures, regulatory requirements, and best practices. However, it is generally recommended to keep these records for a minimum of 2 years. This duration can be extended due to more stringent guidelines set forth by a ship's command, the company's policies, or additional regulatory bodies. Regular audits and inspections often require access to historical PMS schedules to verify compliance with maintenance procedures and safety guidelines.
Ensuring that the PMS schedules are properly archived not only facilitates regulatory compliance but also aids in the maintenance of the vessel by providing actionable insights from historical data. It's important to check with legal requirements and company policies to confirm the exact duration for which one should keep the archives. Furthermore, having a digital backup of the schedule may be preferred, as it provides easy retrieval and efficient storage for longer durations, compared to hard copies. Enhanced data management systems can also help in categorizing and securing archives efficiently