Which component is essential for ensuring the integrity of life-saving equipment?

Regular maintenance and inspection are critical for ensuring the integrity of life-saving equipment because they help identify and address wear and tear, defects, or malfunctions before they can compromise the equipment's functionality. Life-saving equipment must be reliable in emergencies, so consistent checks ensure that all components function as intended and meet safety standards. Maintenance schedules and inspections facilitate timely repairs, calibrations, and part replacements, which are essential to maintaining the performance and reliability of the equipment when it is needed most.

While proper storage, training on usage techniques, and manufacturer replacements are also important aspects of life-saving equipment management, they do not directly ensure the operational integrity of the equipment itself. Regular maintenance and inspection proactively maintain the equipment's readiness and safety.