equipment

Equipment is a general term for tangible assets used to perform work, support operations, or provide services. Unlike consumables or supplies, equipment is typically durable, designed for repeated use, installation, and sometimes integration with power, data networks, or other systems. Equipment ranges from hand tools and portable devices to large, fixed machinery and specialized devices used in industry, healthcare, science, construction, and information technology.

Classification can be by purpose, environment, or mobility. Common categories include industrial and manufacturing equipment (machine tools, conveyors, robotics), medical equipment (imaging devices, monitors, surgical instruments), laboratory equipment (spectrometers, incubators), construction equipment (excavators, bulldozers), office equipment (printers, projectors), IT and data-center gear (servers, network switches), and sports or recreational equipment. Equipment can be fixed, portable, or hand-held, and may be standalone or integrated with other systems.

Lifecycle and procurement considerations guide how equipment is chosen and implemented. Selection and procurement consider performance, capacity, reliability, safety, energy efficiency, compatibility with existing systems, and total cost of ownership. Procurement processes may include specification, vendor evaluation, installation planning, and commissioning. Proper installation, calibration, and documentation are essential to ensure safe operation and accurate results.

Maintenance and safety practices help sustain equipment performance. Maintenance encompasses preventive, predictive, and corrective activities to extend life and maintain performance. Regular calibration, part replacement, and software updates may be required. Safety programs include risk assessments, operator training, lockout/tagout procedures, and compliance with standards set by authorities and industry bodies.

Asset management and standards describe governance and quality control. Organizations track equipment using asset tagging, inventory systems, and CMMS to schedule maintenance, manage warranties, and analyze utilization. Standards and certifications (for example CE marking, UL listing, ISO management systems) help ensure safety, compatibility, and quality across markets.

End of life and environmental considerations address disposal. When equipment reaches end of life or becomes obsolete, organizations plan for decommissioning, recycling, or resale, following applicable environmental and data-security requirements.