Don’t Skip the Walkaround: A Daily Equipment Safety Checklist

Most equipment failures don’t start with a bang; they start with a small leak, a loose part or a worn tire that someone could have caught in five minutes. A routine inspection is one of the easiest ways to protect your equipment and your team.

Establishing a consistent, daily inspection is an easy way to keep from making costly mistakes. We’ve compiled a checklist of quick-to-do’s you, or your team, can conduct before starting work for the day to ensure that everything runs according to plan.

 

Equipment Safety Checklist

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and applicable workplace safety procedures.

• General Equipment Condition
  • Look for visible damage as you walk around
  • Check for loose, missing or damaged components
    • If it’s a rental, contact Hugg & Hall immediately
  • Look for signs of unusual wear or deterioration
  • Check for objects, debris or obstructions around the equipment
  • Inspect attachments and accessories for damage or secure connections

 

• Tires, Wheels and Undercarriage
  • Check tire pressure, where applicable
  • Inspect tires for cuts, cracks, excessive wear or damage
  • Check wheels and rims for visible damage
  • Look for loose or missing wheel components
  • Inspect undercarriage for visible damage or debris

 

• Fluids and Leaks
  • Check engine oil and other required fluid levels
  • Inspect hydraulic hoses and connections for damage or leaks
  • Look for fuel, oil, coolant or hydraulic fluid leaks
  • Check coolant levels and condition, where applicable
  • Inspect visible fluid reservoirs and lines

 

• Brakes, Steering and Controls
  • Check service brakes for proper operation
  • Test the parking brake and emergency brake, where equipped
  • Inspect steering components and verify proper operation
  • Check operating controls for damage or unusual resistance
  • Verify that safety controls and emergency stop functions work, where equipped

 

• Lights, Signals and Visibility
  • Test headlights, taillights and break lights, where equipped
  • Check warning lights and indicators
  • Test the horn and other audible warning devices
  • Inspect mirrors and glass for damage or obstructions
  • Check windshield wipers and washers, where equipped
  • Ensure cameras and other visibility aids are functioning, where equipped

 

• Operator Safety and Protective Equipment
  • Inspect the seat and seatbelt for damage
  • Check doors, guards and protective structures
  • Verify that safety labels and warning decals are visible
  • Check steps, handrails and access points for damage
  • Ensure the operator area is clean and free of obstructions

 

• Final Operational Check
  • Confirm that all required safety equipment is present
  • Start the equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions
  • Check for unusual noises, vibrations, warning lights or odors
  • Verify that controls and safety features operate as intended
  • Complete and document the inspection according to your company’s procedures

To get a downloadable version of this, click here.

 

Keep Your Equipment Ready to Work

Daily equipment inspections are a simple way to protect your operators, reduce unexpected downtime and help extend the life of your equipment. If you notice an issue during your walkaround or your equipment needs professional attention, Hugg & Hall is here to help.

Contact our service team to schedule maintenance, request repairs or get assistance to keep your equipment running at its best.

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