Excavator Daily Inspection Checklist

Full Description

This excavator inspection checklist is a daily form for operators and supervisors to check an excavator before it goes to work. Downtime can be costly on a construction project because it often leads to delays, and heavy equipment breakdowns are a major cause. A consistent daily check helps you catch problems early and keep machines safe and reliable.

What is an excavator daily inspection checklist?

An excavator daily inspection checklist is a list of checks the operator completes before starting the machine each shift, often called a pre-use or pre-start inspection. It covers the condition of the tracks and undercarriage, fluid levels, leaks, the hydraulic system, attachments and safety devices. Any defect is recorded and reported, and the machine is not used until unsafe items are fixed.

When to use it

• At the start of every shift, before the excavator is operated.
• When a machine arrives on site from another project or a rental yard.
• When a different operator takes over the machine.
• After a repair, to confirm the problem is fixed.
• Any time the operator notices a change in how the machine sounds or performs.

What’s included

The checklist is an editable .xlsx spreadsheet for daily excavator inspections. It is designed to help you minimize common excavator problems such as:

• Track tension
• Contamination
• Leakage
• Hydraulic pump failure
• Gearbox issues

How to fill it out

1. Enter the date, machine number or serial number, hour meter reading and operator name.
2. Walk around the machine with the engine off. Check tracks, rollers and track tension, and look for damage or loose parts.
3. Check for leaks under and around the machine, including hydraulic hoses, cylinders and fittings.
4. Check fluid levels and look for signs of contamination in oil, coolant and hydraulic fluid.
5. Inspect the bucket, teeth, pins and any quick coupler or attachment.
6. In the cab, test the controls, horn, lights, alarms, mirrors and seat belt.
7. Mark each item as acceptable or defective and describe any defect.
8. Report defects to your supervisor or mechanic and tag out the machine if it is not safe to use.

Tips

• Follow the manufacturer’s operator manual for machine-specific checks and service intervals.
• Keep completed checklists with the machine records so repeat problems are easy to spot.
• Clean off mud and debris before you inspect. You cannot see a leak through dirt.

Related templates and guides

• Equipment Safety Checklist – Excavator for a broader excavator safety check.
• Skid Steer Daily Inspection Checklist
• Telehandler Daily Inspection Checklist
• Safe Work Procedure – Excavation
• Tools and Equipment Inspection Log to track inspections across your fleet.

Frequently asked questions

What should be checked on an excavator daily?

A daily check usually covers tracks, rollers and track tension, leaks, engine oil, coolant and hydraulic fluid levels, hoses and cylinders, the bucket, teeth, pins and coupler, and cab items such as controls, alarms, lights, mirrors and the seat belt. Always add any checks listed in the operator’s manual.

Who should complete the excavator inspection?

The operator who will run the machine normally completes the pre-use inspection, since they are responsible for operating it safely that shift. A supervisor or equipment manager should review completed checklists and make sure reported defects are repaired before the machine goes back to work.

How do you check track tension on an excavator?

Track tension is usually checked by measuring the sag of the track between rollers with the machine raised or parked as the manufacturer describes. The correct sag and adjustment method vary by model, so follow the operator’s manual. Tracks that are too tight or too loose wear faster and can come off.

What happens if a defect is found during the inspection?

Record the defect on the checklist and report it right away. If it affects safe operation, such as a major leak, brake or control problem, the machine should be tagged out and not used until it is repaired. Minor defects should be scheduled for repair and checked again the next day.