What kind of damage is often assessed first during an evaluation?

Primary damage is often assessed first during an evaluation because it refers to the initial, most significant harm inflicted upon a part or structure. This type of damage typically includes things like cracks, breaks, or deformations that directly affect the integrity and functionality of the component. In many cases, primary damage will dictate the safety and operational capability of the aircraft or system being assessed.

Identifying primary damage is crucial as it allows for a swift determination of necessary repairs or replacements, and it also helps in prioritizing further inspections or evaluations regarding additional impact on system performance or safety. Once primary damage is documented and addressed, evaluations can then move on to secondary damage, which can be caused by the primary damage or other factors, and often requires more extensive investigation to understand its implications.

Overall, focusing on primary damage first aligns with protocols to ensure the most vital issues are prioritized, ultimately ensuring safety and reliability in aviation operations.