Which maintenance task can be categorized as "scheduled downtime"?

Scheduled downtime refers to pre-planned periods during which maintenance work is performed to ensure that equipment operates efficiently and safely. Routine inspections and preventive maintenance activities fit this description perfectly because they are planned in advance, allowing for the proper allocation of resources and minimizing disruptions to regular operations. By conducting these tasks during scheduled downtime, organizations can avoid unexpected failures and prolong the lifespan of their equipment.

The other options do not align with the concept of scheduled downtime. Emergency repairs occur reactively in response to unplanned failures, thus interrupting the regular schedule. Using equipment beyond its recommended hours can lead to wear and tear, potentially resulting in breakdowns, which is counterproductive to the concept of scheduling maintenance. Cleaning equipment during off-hours might be useful but does not inherently involve a planned maintenance task in the way that routine inspections and preventive maintenance do, as cleaning alone does not directly relate to equipment efficiency or reliability.