Equipment check
Daily pre-use check: plant and work equipment, groundworks (England)
A daily pre-use check for plant and work equipment in groundworks, covering general condition, controls, lights, alarms, lifting accessories, and defect reporting.
Fill it in online - free, no account needed. 24 questions.
What it is for
This template provides a structured daily pre-use check for plant and work equipment used in groundworks.
- Verifying the safe operating condition of mini excavators, dumpers, and similar equipment
- Checking the functionality of safety guards, controls, lights, and alarms
- Inspecting lifting accessories for defects and correct markings
- Confirming operator training and awareness of equipment risks
- Recording any identified defects and the actions taken to address them
- Demonstrating compliance with UK health and safety regulations for work equipment
The full question list
1. Equipment Identification and Operator Details
- Type of plant or work equipment being checked (e.g., mini excavator, dumper) *
- Plant or equipment identification number (e.g., serial number, asset tag) *
- Operator's name *
- Operator confirms they have received adequate health and safety training for this equipment. *
2. Pre-Operational Checks: General Condition
- All guards and safety devices are in place and securely fitted. *
- There are no visible leaks (oil, fuel, hydraulic fluid). *
- Tyres or tracks are in good condition with no excessive wear or damage. *
- All mirrors and windows are clean and undamaged, providing clear visibility. *
- The operator's cab/station is clean and free from obstructions. *
3. Controls, Lights, and Alarms
- All operating controls (e.g., steering, brakes, throttle) respond correctly and smoothly. *
- Emergency stop controls are clearly marked and function correctly. *
- All lights (headlights, tail lights, warning beacons) are working. *
- Audible warning devices (e.g., horn, reversing alarm) are functioning correctly. *
4. Lifting Accessories and Attachments (if applicable)
- All lifting accessories (e.g., chains, slings, shackles) are free from visible defects (e.g., distortion, cracks, excessive wear). *
- Lifting accessories have clear and legible markings for safe working load (SWL). *
- Attachments (e.g., buckets, breakers) are securely fitted and free from damage. *
- The inspection record for this equipment confirms it has been thoroughly examined at suitable intervals. *
5. Defect Reporting and Action
- Are there any defects identified during this pre-use check? *
- If 'Yes' to the above, describe all identified defects.
- If defects were found, what action has been taken? *
- Name of person notified of defects (if applicable).
6. Sign-off
- Name of person completing this check *
- Date and time of completion *
- Signature of person completing this check *
References
- Required by: The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/2306), reg. 9(1)
Every employer shall ensure that all persons who use work equipment have received adequate training for purposes of health and safety
Read the source - Required by: The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/2306), reg. 11(1)
Every employer shall ensure that measures are taken in accordance with paragraph (2) which are effective— (a) to prevent access to any dangerous part of machinery or to any rotating stock-bar; or (b) to stop the movement of any dangerous part of machinery or rotating stock-bar before any part of a person enters a danger zone.
Read the source - Supports evidence for: The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/2306), reg. 18(1)
Every employer shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all control systems of work equipment— (a) are safe; and (b) are chosen making due allowance for the failures, faults and constraints to be expected in the planned circumstances of use.
Read the source - Required by: The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/2306), reg. 15(1)
Every employer shall ensure that, where appropriate, work equipment is provided with one or more readily accessible controls the operation of which will bring the work equipment to a safe condition in a safe manner.
Read the source - Required by: The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (SI 1998/2306), reg. 6(2)
Every employer shall ensure that work equipment exposed to conditions causing deterioration which is liable to result in dangerous situations is inspected— (a) at suitable intervals
Read the source
How the score works
The score is the share of scored questions that pass. N/A is left out of the score; text, dates and signatures are recorded but not scored. A completed template is a record of what you checked; it is not an inspection by a regulator or an accreditation body.
Questions
Why is a daily pre-use check important?
Daily pre-use checks help identify potential faults or damage to equipment before it is used, preventing accidents, injuries, and costly breakdowns, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
What kind of equipment is this template suitable for?
This template is designed for common plant and work equipment used in groundworks and general construction, such as mini excavators, dumpers, telehandlers, and other machinery requiring daily inspection.