Most equipment failures announce themselves before they happen — a weeping hose, a loose pin, a low fluid level. A disciplined pre-start check catches these early, keeps people safe and avoids the cost of downtime. It takes about ten minutes.
1. Walk around the machine
- Look for leaks under the machine and around hydraulic rams and hoses.
- Check tracks or tyres for damage, correct tension or pressure, and missing bolts.
- Inspect buckets, teeth, pins and quick couplers for wear and security.
- Make sure mirrors, steps, handrails and guards are in place and undamaged.
2. Check the fluids
- Engine oil, coolant and hydraulic oil at the correct levels.
- Fuel sufficient for the shift — and the right fuel type.
- Grease the points listed in the operator manual, usually daily.
3. Start-up and cab checks
- Seat belt works and the seat adjusts correctly.
- Warning lights clear after start-up; gauges read normally.
- Horn, travel alarm, beacon and work lights all function.
- Every control responds smoothly, including the safety lever and emergency stop.
4. Check the working area
Confirm locations of underground services and overhead lines, ground stability, exclusion zones and banksman arrangements before work starts. Conditions change daily on most sites.
5. Record and report
Sign the daily checklist kept in the cab. If anything is wrong, do not operate the machine — report it to your supervisor and call your rental supplier. Using a faulty machine can turn a small repair into a major breakdown, and it can put people at risk.
Every TractRent machine is delivered with a checklist and a handover briefing. If you would prefer an experienced operator to take care of the machine, see our operator hire service or read our FAQ.