Daily Checks and Defect Reporting
What the exam tests
Daily Checks and Defect Reporting tests the operator's first-line checks and the reporting chain. The exam wants you to know what is checked daily, how defects are graded and why an unsafe machine must be stopped.
Core rules
- Daily checks include fluid levels, leaks, tyre or track condition, belt tension, battery security, lights, horn, reverse alarm, cameras, mirrors, fire extinguisher, seat belt and attachment locking pins.
- Record the hour meter and fuel added. Note any new noise, vibration, smoke, drift or warning light.
- Report defects immediately to the supervisor or maintenance controller. Use the site's written system, not only a verbal message.
- Treat safety defects as stop-use items: brake failure, steering fault, lifting limit failure, damaged wire rope, missing guard, fuel or oil leak near a hot surface.
- Tag out or isolate the machine, keep the key controlled and do not operate until repair is confirmed.
Worked example
A wheel loader brake pedal travels almost to the floor and the machine pulls to one side. The operator parks on level ground, lowers the bucket, applies the parking brake, tags the machine out and reports a red defect. The reasoning is simple: a brake fault affects stopping distance and steering control, so the machine is not safe for the shift.
Traps
Do not report only at the end of the shift. Do not continue with an amber warning that later becomes red. Do not accept a verbal promise of repair without a recorded release. Do not hide a defect to avoid downtime.
Key points
- Daily checks are recorded, not remembered.
- Safety defects mean stop use and tag out.
- Report in writing to the supervisor or maintenance controller.
- Do not operate until repair is confirmed.