DiggerSafe › Excavator pre-start checklist
Excavator pre-start checklist
Use this excavator pre-start checklist before each shift. It covers the walk-around with the engine off, the cab and controls, and a short operating test, so faults are found before they cost you a breakdown.
This is a general guide only. Always follow the manufacturer's operator manual, your site rules and the workplace health and safety laws that apply to you.
1. Walk-around (engine off)
- Logbook and plates: serial number matches, safety decals are legible, and yesterday's defects were repaired
- Engine oil, hydraulic oil and coolant levels
- Fuel level, and no fuel or oil leaks under the machine
- Hoses and fittings: no chafing, cracks, weeping or loose connections
- Tracks: condition, tension, missing or loose pads and bolts
- Rollers, idlers, sprockets and track guards: no damage or leaks
- Boom, arm and bucket: cracks in welds, damaged pins and bushes
- Bucket teeth and cutting edge: worn, loose or missing
- Quick hitch: locked, with the safety pin or clip in place
- Hydraulic rams: no leaks, scoring or bent rods
- Covers, panels, steps and handrails secure; guarding intact
- Battery and isolator secure; grease points greased
2. Cab and controls
- Seat belt fitted and working; seat adjusted
- Mirrors, camera and windows clean and undamaged
- Joysticks, pedals and levers move freely and return to neutral
- Horn, lights, beacon and travel alarm working
- Gauges and warning lights show normal after start-up
- Emergency stop or isolation switch within reach and working
- Fire extinguisher and first aid kit present and in date
- Cab clear of loose items and rubbish
3. Operating test
- Warm up, then move the boom, arm, bucket and swing through full range
- Travel forward and reverse; check for steering pull or odd noises
- Swing brake and parking brake hold
- Check any attachments and hydraulic couplers for correct operation
- Before digging: check ground conditions and the location of overhead and underground services
Frequently asked questions
How often should an excavator pre-start check be done?
A pre-start check is normally done before each shift or at the start of each day of use. Your site rules and the manufacturer's manual set the exact requirement.
What should I do if I find a fault on an excavator?
Do not use the machine if the fault affects safety. Report it to your supervisor or the machine owner and record it. In DiggerSafe, items marked as failed are flagged on the machine.
Can I keep my excavator pre-start records on my phone?
Yes. DiggerSafe records each check with the time and location and creates a PDF report you can share.