VEHICLE INSPECTIONS: SAFETY FIRST

Safety is the most important reason to inspect your vehicle. As a responsible operator, your top priority is the safety of yourself and others on the road. A defect discovered during an inspection could prevent a breakdown, lost productivity, or, worse, a crash.

Federal and state laws require drivers to inspect their vehicles. A pre-trip inspection helps you identify problems before they happen. Use the EM-78 "Operator’s Daily Report for Mobile Equipment", which contains all the necessary inspection points for dump trucks, including snow plow equipment. A similar form is available for inspection loaders.

PRE-INSPECTIONS

• Follow the same inspection routine each time to reduce the chance of overlooking anything.

• Look for visible damage or if the vehicle is leaning to one side.

• Inspect underneath for fresh oil, coolant, grease, or fuel leaks.

• Safety note: Always put the vehicle key in your pocket while inspecting to prevent someone from moving the vehicle—a good lock-out practice.

DURING A TRIP

• Watching gauges closely.

• Using your senses—look, listen, smell, and feel—for unusual conditions.

• Checking critical components during stops, including: tires, wheels, rims, brakes, lights and reflectors.

POST TRIP

At the end of your shift, complete an after-trip inspection using the EM-78. Record any problems that need repair. This ensures supervisors know what requires attention and prevents passing a hazard to the next operator.