Lesson 1Exterior walk-around inspection: sequential checks (body damage, lights, windscreen, mirrors, doors, cargo securement) and how to perform visual/manual checksExplains how to conduct a methodical exterior walk-around, identifying damage, defects, and insecure cargo. Covers visual and manual techniques, sequencing of checks, and documentation standards to ensure consistent, safe inspections.
Safe walk-around path and positioningBody panels, frame and visible damageWindscreen, wipers and glass conditionLighting, lenses and reflectors checkMirrors, doors and latches operationCargo securement and enclosure checksLesson 2Cab and interior inspection: seat belts, gauges, warning lights, HVAC, mirrors, horn, driver controls and how to test themExplains how to inspect the cab for safety-critical items and driver controls. Includes seat belts, seats, mirrors, gauges, warning lights, HVAC, horn, wipers, and switches, plus functional tests to confirm proper operation and visibility.
Seat, seat belt and buckle conditionMirror adjustment and interior visibilityGauges, telltales and warning lightsHVAC, defrost and demist performanceHorn, wipers and washer operationSwitches, pedals and control labellingLesson 3Engine compartment inspection: fluid levels (oil, coolant, power steering, brake fluid), belts, hoses, battery condition and how to detect leaks and wearGuides inspectors through safe engine compartment checks with engine off and, when required, running. Focuses on fluids, belts, hoses, battery, visible leaks, mounting security, and recognising early signs of wear or overheating risks.
Engine-off safety and lockout basicsEngine oil, coolant and brake fluid levelsPower steering and washer fluid checksBelts, pulleys and tension inspectionHoses, clamps and leak source tracingBattery mounting, terminals and cablesLesson 4Brake functional checks: parking brake, service brake operation, low-speed roll tests, warning indicators and air system checks (if applicable)Details how to verify parking and service brake performance using controlled tests. Includes low-speed roll checks, pedal feel, stopping distance, warning indicators, and air brake system checks where fitted, with clear pass or fail criteria.
Parking brake hold and release testService brake pedal feel and travelLow-speed straight-line stopping testABS and brake warning light behaviourAir system pressure build and leak testRecording and classifying brake defectsLesson 5Documented functional tests before departure: lights, turn signals, brake lights, backup alarm/camera, short controlled drive checks and permissible test protocols in yardDescribes structured pre-departure functional tests performed in a controlled area. Covers lights, turn signals, brake lights, backup alarms or cameras, steering feel, and short drive checks, including safe test protocols and documentation.
Headlights, markers and brake lights testTurn signals and hazard flashers checkReverse alarm and camera verificationShort controlled drive and steering feelRecording results on inspection formsLesson 6Tyre, wheel and under-vehicle checks: tyre pressure/tread checks, lug nut indicators, visible leaks and safe under-vehicle inspection practicesProvides methods for assessing tyres, wheels, and underbody components without unsafe exposure. Includes tread and pressure checks, sidewall damage, lug nuts, visible leaks, suspension, and safe use of creepers or mirrors under vehicles.
Tyre size, load rating and matchingTread depth, wear patterns and damageTyre pressure and valve stem checksWheel rims, cracks and deformationLug nuts, indicators and torque signsSafe under-vehicle viewing techniquesLesson 7Safety and emergency equipment verification: location and condition of fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, PPE, first-aid kit and documentation of expiry/inspectionsCovers identification, location, and condition checks for fire extinguishers, warning triangles, PPE, and first-aid kits. Emphasises expiry dates, inspection tags, mounting security, accessibility, and documentation of missing or noncompliant items.
Fire extinguisher type, mount and chargeReflective triangles count and conditionPPE availability, sizing and integrityFirst-aid kit contents and expiry datesEmergency equipment accessibility checkLesson 8Approach and initial safety briefing: safe approach path, establishing communication with driver, PPE checklistOutlines how to approach a parked vehicle safely, establish communication with the driver, and conduct an initial safety briefing. Emphasises PPE, traffic awareness, chocking, and setting expectations for the inspection process and duration.
Assessing traffic and site hazardsSafe approach path and vehicle positioningInitial contact and driver instructionsPPE selection and compliance checkWheel chocks and securing the vehicle
