How are discrepancies classified in the 3-M system?

In the 3-M system, discrepancies are classified by severity and impact on operational readiness because this classification helps prioritize maintenance actions and resource allocation effectively. Understanding the severity of a discrepancy enables maintenance personnel to assess how it affects the ship's mission and operational capabilities.

This classification system is designed to ensure that issues impacting the safety and performance of equipment receive immediate attention, thus maintaining the overall readiness of the ship. For instance, discrepancies that pose serious risks to safety or would significantly hinder operations are classified as more severe and are prioritized accordingly.

The other approaches, such as classifying based on equipment age or the last maintenance performed, do not directly address the operational impact of the discrepancies and could lead to mismanaged maintenance priorities. Similarly, geographical location doesn't contribute to a sound assessment of the discrepancy's influence on operational readiness, which is essential for effective maintenance management in the 3-M framework.