Calibration compliance and risk-based maintenance: perceptions and practices of healthcare equipment users on patient safety

PURPOSE: This study examines the influence of perceived calibration compliance (PCC) and risk-based maintenance (RBM) attitudes on perceived patient safety outcomes (PSO) among biomedical technicians and equipment operators. It further explores the mediating role of equipment accuracy (EA) and the moderating role of risk category awareness (RCA). DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A structured questionnaire was used to collect responses from 415 biomedical staff across three NABH-accredited private hospitals in Kerala, using stratified purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 for descriptive statistics and Smarts 4.0 for structural equation modeling, including path analysis, mediation and moderation testing. FINDINGS: Both PCC and RBM showed a significant positive impact on PSO. EA was found to mediate these relationships, indicating that calibration and maintenance practices contribute to safety through their effect on equipment performance. RCA was found to moderate the relationships, strengthening the impact of technical practices on safety outcomes when awareness of equipment risk levels was higher. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: This study was limited to three private hospitals in Kerala, so the findings might not apply to government or smaller healthcare settings. Since the data were collected at one point in time, it doesn't capture changes over time. Also, the responses were self-reported, so there's a chance of bias or overstatement by the participants. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings emphasize the need for regular calibration training, RBM protocols and staff awareness programs to promote a culture of safety in healthcare environments. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The study is novel in its investigation on how technical compliance and staff perception link to patient safety outcomes through equipment accuracy and risk awareness.