Lesson 1Why each check matters: preventing failures, avoiding uncontrolled movement, and protecting peopleThis section explains why each inspection step is critical, linking checks to real failure modes, uncontrolled movement risks, and injury scenarios, so operators understand the consequences of skipping or rushing inspections.
Relate checks to common failure scenariosUnderstand consequences of dropped loadsConnect leaks to fire and environmental risksLink poor visibility to struck-by incidentsExplain uncontrolled movement case studiesDiscuss legal and financial liability impactsLesson 2Daily walk-around checklist: fluids, visible leaks, belts, hoses, and filter conditionYou will learn to perform a structured daily walk-around, checking fluids, visible leaks, belts, hoses, filters, and general condition so defects are caught early and recorded before the machine is placed into service.
Check engine oil, coolant, and hydraulic levelsInspect for fuel, oil, and coolant leaksExamine belts for tension, cracks, and frayingInspect hoses for routing and chafing pointsCheck air and fuel filter condition indicatorsReview general cleanliness and loose itemsLesson 3Attachment and linkage inspection: pins, bushings, mounting locks, and quick-coupler securityThis section explains how to examine attachments, linkages, pins, bushings, mounting locks, and quick-couplers to ensure secure connection, proper movement, and to prevent dropped loads or unexpected detachment during operation.
Inspect pins and bushings for wear and playCheck attachment mounting points for cracksVerify mechanical and hydraulic locks engagedInspect quick-coupler hoses and connectorsConfirm attachment matches rated capacityCheck for excessive grease, rust, or damageLesson 4Undercarriage and mobility checks: tyres, tracks, track tension, rims, and wheel nutsHere you will learn how to inspect tyres, tracks, track tension, rims, and wheel nuts to confirm safe mobility, prevent derailment or blowouts, and identify damage that could lead to loss of control or costly downtime.
Check tyre pressure, cuts, and sidewall damageInspect tracks, shoes, and rollers for wearVerify track tension and alignmentInspect rims for cracks and deformationCheck wheel nuts for tightness and damageLook for debris packed in undercarriageLesson 5Documentation and labelling: operator manual location, load charts, machine placards, and tag-out recordsHere you will learn how to locate and use the operator manual, load charts, placards, inspection tags, and lockout/tag-out records to document findings, prove compliance, and communicate equipment status to others.
Locate and protect the operator manualRead and interpret load charts correctlyVerify safety and warning placards presentComplete daily inspection forms accuratelyApply and remove lockout/tag-out devicesStore records to meet site and legal rulesLesson 6Control system and instrument checks: pedals, levers, safety interlocks, gauges, and warning lightsYou will learn to verify pedals, levers, joysticks, safety interlocks, gauges, and warning lights so that control inputs respond correctly, safety circuits function, and the operator receives accurate machine status information.
Test pedal and lever travel and returnVerify joystick deadman and enable switchesCheck safety interlocks and start-up logicConfirm gauges read within normal rangesTest all indicator and warning lightsVerify horn and cab controls operate properlyLesson 7Hydraulic and mechanical integrity: hoses, fittings, cylinders, and evidenced pressure lossThis section focuses on inspecting hydraulic hoses, fittings, cylinders, and mechanical components for leaks, abrasion, loose hardware, and signs of pressure loss that could cause slow response, failure, or sudden uncontrolled movement.
Inspect hoses for cuts, bulges, and abrasionCheck fittings and connections for seepageInspect cylinders, rods, and seals for leaksLook for loose bolts, guards, and bracketsCheck for unusual noises or vibrationVerify no evidence of overheating or scoringLesson 8Safety devices and PPE checks: seat belt, ROPS/FOPS integrity, mirrors, backup alarms, and fire extinguisherThis section covers verifying seat belts, ROPS/FOPS structures, mirrors, backup alarms, and fire extinguishers, along with PPE checks, to ensure the operator has full protection and awareness before starting the machine.
Inspect seat belt condition and latchingVerify ROPS/FOPS structure and labellingAdjust and clean mirrors for visibilityTest backup alarm and warning devicesCheck fire extinguisher type and chargeConfirm required PPE is worn and serviceable
