1. A fundamental or critically important operation or procedure that is necessary for the functioning or continuation of a system, organization, or process
During the emergency, only essential operations were maintained at the hospital.
Durante a emergência, apenas operações essenciais foram mantidas no hospital.
2. In a legal or regulatory context, a business activity that cannot be suspended or closed without causing significant harm or disruption
The government classified food distribution as an essential operation during lockdown.
O governo classificou a distribuição de alimentos como uma operação essencial durante o confinamento.