Heavy Equipment Daily Inspection Checklist

What is a heavy equipment inspection checklist? A heavy equipment inspection checklist is a daily pre-operation safety form required before operating construction machinery. Per OSHA 1926.602, equipment must be inspected daily and defects corrected before use. This checklist covers excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, backhoes, skid steers, scrapers, and motor graders to ensure safe operation and prevent equipment failures.

  • Industry: Construction
  • Frequency: Daily / Before each shift
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Equipment Operator / Mechanic
  • Total Items: 49
  • Compliance: OSHA 1926.602 (Material Handling Equipment), OSHA 1926.601 (Motor Vehicles), SAE J1362 (Walkaround Inspection), ISO 6165 (Earth-Moving Machinery), PUWER 1998 (UK)

Walkaround Inspection

Complete 360-degree walkaround before entering cab. Look for leaks, damage, and obstructions.

  • Ground around equipment clear of debris/hazards?
  • No fluid leaks visible (oil, hydraulic, coolant, fuel)?
  • Tracks/tires in good condition (proper tension/pressure)?
  • Undercarriage free of damage and buildup?
  • All pins and retainers in place?
  • Bucket/blade/attachment secure and undamaged?
  • Cutting edges acceptable wear?
  • Hydraulic cylinders free of leaks/scoring?
  • All guards and covers in place?
  • Steps and handrails clean and secure?

Fluid Levels & Filters

Check all fluid levels with engine cold and machine on level ground.

  • Engine oil level OK?
  • Hydraulic oil level OK?
  • Coolant level OK?
  • Fuel level adequate for shift?
  • DEF fluid level OK (if equipped)?
  • Transmission/final drive oil OK?
  • Air filter indicator OK (not restricted)?
  • Water separator drained?

Cab & Safety Equipment

Inspect operator cab, ROPS/FOPS, and safety equipment.

  • ROPS/FOPS structure undamaged?
  • Seatbelt functional and undamaged?
  • Cab glass clean and uncracked?
  • All mirrors clean and properly adjusted?
  • Camera/monitor system functional (if equipped)?
  • Fire extinguisher present and charged?
  • First aid kit present?
  • Cab clean and free of loose items?

Engine Startup & Gauges

Start engine and verify all gauges, warnings, and engine operation.

  • Horn and backup alarm functional?
  • All warning lights function then go off?
  • Engine oil pressure normal?
  • Coolant temperature normal after warmup?
  • Hydraulic oil temperature normal?
  • Charging system (alternator) functioning?
  • Engine running smoothly (no unusual sounds)?
  • Exhaust normal (no excessive smoke)?

Controls & Operational Tests

Test all controls and functions in a safe area before work.

  • Steering responds correctly?
  • Service brakes functional?
  • Parking brake holds machine?
  • Transmission shifts properly (all gears)?
  • Boom/arm functions smoothly?
  • Bucket/blade controls responsive?
  • Swing function smooth (excavator)?
  • Travel forward/reverse both tracks/wheels?
  • All lights functional (head, work, tail)?
  • Windshield wipers/washer functional?
  • ...and 1 more items

PPE Compliance Verification

Personal protective equipment inspection

  • Hard hats worn in required areas?
  • Safety glasses/goggles worn as required?
  • High-visibility vests worn?
  • Steel-toe boots worn by all workers?

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