Count and value tell different stories
One hundred small tasks are not automatically more serious than a handful of major unresolved defects.
Age of backlog matters
A task repeatedly deferred for years may deserve different review from a newly created work order.
Reason codes reveal constraints
Labour, materials, shutdown windows, approvals and design dependencies can explain why work remains open.
Backlog should connect to service
Triage is stronger when the consequence of leaving work undone is considered alongside the task itself.
Scope. This page explains asset-management concepts, not operating procedures for critical infrastructure. Inspection methods, intervention thresholds and safety decisions must follow the asset owner’s standards, local rules and qualified professional judgement.