When you start your day, you want to make sure that your equipment is along for the ride. The easiest way to do this is a walkaround before you start your shift. This gives you an opportunity to clean off dirt and grime and make sure that everything is as it should be to give you a smooth day getting work done.
Depending on what you are driving, you have different types of what are called ground engaging tools. Teeth, blades, edges, those kinds of things. Over time, these will wear down. Your walkaround gives you the opportunity to see how they’re wearing, and if they’re causing you more trouble than good.
Tracks and tires will also wear down over time. Without these, your machine can’t move, which means you can’t work. Dirt and debris can cause faster wear and tear, so removing these are to your benefit. Check tires for under/overinflation, as well as punctures.
The fluids in your machine make sure that it works properly and efficiently. Fuel, DEF, transmission fluid, and even windshield washer fluid all help you work smoothly. Check these levels daily. In addition to inside the machine, check outside too. Oil on the ground under your machine can mean a leak, which needs to be taken care of immediately.
As a heavy equipment operator, you spend most of your day in the cab of your vehicle. Checking the cleanliness and operation of that space is super important. Cleaning out any debris from the floor or cupholders, and checking to make sure that everything in there works; horns, backup notifications, and any sort of signal lights.
