Heavy Equipment Operator Daily Walk-Around

Daily pre-operation inspection for heavy equipment operators to verify structural condition, fluid levels, tires/tracks, controls, safety devices, and ROPS before use.

Inspection Setup

• Equipment identification recorded
  Record the equipment make/model, unit number, and location before beginning the walk-around.
• Inspection performed before use and with equipment secured
  Confirm the inspection is completed before startup or operation, with the machine parked, stabilized, and secured per site procedure.
• Operator has authority to remove equipment from service if a critical deficiency is found
  Confirm the operator understands stop-work expectations and escalation for unsafe conditions.

Walk-Around Structural Condition

• Frame, boom, arms, bucket, blade, and attachment points free of visible cracks, bends, or missing hardware
  Inspect all accessible structural components for damage, deformation, loose pins, or missing fasteners.
• Welds, pins, hinges, and couplers show no abnormal wear or separation
  Check for cracked welds, excessive play, separation, or other non-conformance that could affect safe operation.
• Steps, handholds, access points, and platforms are intact and free of slip/trip hazards
  Verify safe access to the cab and service points; remove mud, grease, loose debris, or damaged components.
• No visible fluid leaks under or around the machine
  Inspect the ground and machine surfaces for hydraulic, engine oil, coolant, fuel, or transmission leaks.

Fluids and Service Levels

• Engine oil level within acceptable operating range
  Verify oil level using the dipstick or electronic indicator per manufacturer instructions.
• Hydraulic fluid level within acceptable operating range
  Check hydraulic reservoir level per manufacturer procedure and note any abnormal loss.
• Coolant level within acceptable operating range and reservoir cap secure
  Confirm coolant is at the proper level and there are no signs of overheating, contamination, or cap damage.
• Fuel, DEF, and other required service levels adequate for planned operation
  Verify required consumables are sufficient for the shift and that caps, necks, and fill points are secure.

Tires, Tracks, and Undercarriage

• Tires show no cuts, bulges, exposed cords, or abnormal wear
  Inspect all tires for damage, inflation issues, missing lug nuts, or other defects.
• Track condition acceptable with no severe damage, missing pads, or excessive slack
  For tracked equipment, inspect track tension, rollers, sprockets, idlers, and track shoes for damage or abnormal wear.
• Undercarriage free of packed debris, obstructions, and damage affecting travel or steering
  Check for mud, rocks, wire, or debris that could interfere with safe movement or create a fire or mechanical hazard.

Controls, Safety Devices, and Operator Station

• Primary controls move freely and return to neutral as designed
  Verify joysticks, pedals, levers, steering, and travel controls operate smoothly without binding or sticking.
• Horn, backup alarm, lights, and other warning devices function properly
  Test audible and visual warning devices required for the equipment and work area.
• Mirrors, cameras, windows, and visibility aids are clean and serviceable
  Confirm the operator has adequate visibility and that visibility aids are not cracked, blocked, or inoperative.
• Seat belt, interlocks, and operator presence controls function correctly
  Verify restraint systems and safety interlocks are present, undamaged, and operational before use.

ROPS, Guards, and Final Disposition

• ROPS structure is present, undamaged, and not modified
  Inspect rollover protective structure for cracks, corrosion, missing hardware, unauthorized welding, or other alterations.
• Guards, shields, and covers are installed and secure
  Verify guards for belts, fans, hot surfaces, rotating parts, and pinch points are in place and serviceable.
• Deficiencies documented and equipment removed from service if required
  Record any deficiency, non-conformance, or critical item failure and confirm the unit is tagged out or reported per site procedure.