What action is typically taken before salvaging equipment that has been damaged?

Before salvaging equipment that has been damaged, cleaning and preservation are critical steps taken to ensure that any recoverable components can be safely handled and assessed. This process helps to remove dirt, debris, and any corrosive materials that may have accumulated on the equipment. By cleaning the equipment, it minimizes the risk of further degradation and prepares it for a more thorough evaluation of its salvageability.

Preservation is also essential because it protects the components from further damage during the salvage process. Without this action, remnants of contaminants could interfere with visual inspections or subsequent technical evaluations, potentially leading to incorrect assessments about what can be salvaged. Therefore, cleaning and preservation establish a solid foundation for assessing the damaged equipment and determining what parts can be reused or require disposal.