Autonomous maintenance is a practice in which operators take responsibility for the routine upkeep of their own equipment. This approach empowers workers to perform basic maintenance tasks, such as cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting machinery. By doing so, they can identify potential issues early and ensure that equipment runs efficiently. This method is often part of a larger strategy known as Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), which aims to maximize equipment effectiveness. Autonomous maintenance encourages teamwork and fosters a sense of ownership among employees, leading to improved productivity and reduced downtime in manufacturing environments.