Your Guide to Equipment Circle Check

Checking your equipment over before you start work is one of the best ways to find hazards and prevent accidents. Some companies may call these pre-operational checks, or "pre-ops". Your company should have a procedure and a checklist in place to help you. The list may be different for each piece of equipment.

The Steps:

Before you start operating, you should check:

• Zero energy state (booms at rest, wheels chocked, master switch open)
• Fire suppression and extinguishing equipment
• Fluid levels, condition of radiator
• Pins, keepers and grease requirements
• Air intake and filter indicator
• Belts and hoses
• Tires, rims and lug nuts
• Radio or communication device
• Hydraulic hoses and straps
• Clean windows and mirrors
• Mud, debris, stones, snow or ice removed from ladders, steps, walkways and floor of the cab
  

After starting up:

• Pressures and temperatures
• Parking, service and emergency brake testing
• Lights, gauges, alarms and warning devices
• Steering
  

Tips for your circle check:

• Start and stop at the same place every time.
• Fill out your checklist or logbook as you go, don't wait until later in the cab or lunchroom.
• Record any problems as you go - safety or mechanical defects, or damage.
• Report any defects to your supervisor, and don't use the vehicle if it is not safe.
  

Why do a circle check?

The law says companies must have a procedure to test, maintain and inspect vehicles. Brakes, steering, lighting and other safety components have to be tested before the equipment is used for each shift. Also, the law says there must be a written record of testing, maintenance and inspections. Do you complete and sign a checklist for every inspection? Are the records kept on file?

For Inquiries Contact:

MASHA- 690 McKeown Ave.,
North Bay, ON P1B 9P1
ph. (705) 474-7233 x261
f. (705) 472-5800