Safety checklist — Excavator inspection
Daily pre-operation inspection of excavator. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Exterior walk-around
18 items- ✓
Check tracks or tires — tension, wear, cuts
- ✓
Inspect hydraulic hoses — no leaks, cracks or visible wear
- ✓
Check hydraulic cylinders — no seal leaks
- ✓
Inspect boom, stick and bucket — cracks, welds, pins
- ✓
Check fluid levels: hydraulic oil, engine oil, coolant, fuel
- ✓
Inspect headlights, backup lights and beacon — all functional
- ✓
Check backup alarm — audible at safe distanceCritical
ℹ️ CSTC s. 3.15.3: backup alarm mandatory on all construction equipment
- ✓
Check ROPS/FOPS protective structure — no deformationCritical
ℹ️ CSTC: rollover (ROPS) and falling object (FOPS) protective structures must be intact
- ✓
Fire extinguisher present, accessible and charge verified
- ✓
Check mirrors and cleanliness of cab windows
- ✓
Seat belt present and functional
- ✓
Start engine — check gauges: oil pressure, temperature, alternator charge
- ✓
Test all movements: boom, stick, bucket, swing, travel
- ✓
Check horn and swing alarm operation
- ✓
Test parking and service brakes
- ✓
Check emergency stop operation
- ✓
Test windshield wipers and defroster
- ✓
Check cab heating / air conditioning controls
Report / Sign-off
5 items- ✓
Record hourmeter reading
- ✓
Log any deficiency in the inspection register
- ✓
Report any major deficiency to supervisor immediatelyCritical
- ✓
Apply lockout tag if equipment is unsafeCritical
ℹ️ Defective equipment must be removed from service and tagged per lockout procedure
- ✓
Sign the inspection form