Post Start Up

Once the pre-operational requirements have been satisfied, your operator will proceed to the operator’s cab and prepare for the startup. Before starting to travel and handle loads, there are still some checks that need to be completed.

Here’s are some of the most common checks when entering the operator’s compartment and starting up the equipment:

Uses 3-Points of Contact When Accessing The Operator’s Cab

The operator should use 3 points of contact when entering into the cab.

This will ensure that they are able to maintain their footing and grip when climbing into the operator’s area and reduce the likelihood of slipping, tripping, or falling.

Sometimes, operators will get into the habit of jumping or “hopping” into the cab, skipping steps, and increasing the risk of tripping and falling. Keep an eye out for this when your operator is entering and exiting the cab throughout the entire evaluation.

Ensures All Safety Devices are in Place and Functioning as Required

Depending on the specific type of equipment that you’re evaluating your operator on, it may have various safety devices that need to be checked.

As most basic devices such as the overhead guard, the fire extinguisher, mirrors, etc. are checked during the pre-operational inspection, some need to be checked while in the cab or even after startup.

For example, many forklifts now have video cameras and displays that allow the operator to have a clear view of their surroundings during operation. Additionally, many trucks have audible warning devices such as back up alarms. These and other similar devices should be checked when in the cab and before starting one’s daily tasks.

Ensures All Dashboard Components are Functioning Correctly

During the post-startup check, the operator should inspect all dashboard components to ensure that all warning lights, indicators, and gauges are working correctly.

If you’re going to observe in close proximity to the forklift so that you can better evaluate the operator’s performance, ensure that you have a clear line of communication so that the operator does not make any movements that may put you in danger.

Tests The Functionality of The Parking Brake

During the practical evaluation, the operator should test the functionality of the parking brake. While the operation depends on the specific type of equipment, in most cases, these can be tested by engaging and disengaging a few times.

The correct measures for operating and testing the parking brake can be found in the equipment’s operating manual, which should be reviewed prior to the evaluation.

Checks all Hydraulic Operations Including Lift, Lower, Tilt, and Side Movements

The operator should check all hydraulic control functions to ensure that they perform the intended function and move freely without excessive tension or the ability to jam or become stuck.

Many companies will create a pre-determined sequence in which the hydraulic controls should be checked. This is a great idea since it reduces the chances of anything getting missed and it helps to ensure that all operators test in the same way. If there is a specific test sequence designated to a piece of equipment, you should evaluate the operator to its specific standard.

Inspects and Tests all Foot Pedals Including The Brake, Clutch, Inching, and Gas Pedals

Just as with the hydraulic controls, the operator should check all foot pedals including the brake, clutch, inching, and gal pedals to ensure that they perform the intended function and move freely without excessive tension or the ability to jam or become stuck.

Testing of the pedals may also be included in a pre-determined sequence. If there is a specific test sequence designated to piece of equipment, you should evaluate the operator to its specific standard, as you would with the hydraulic operations.

Listens for Unusual Sounds After Start Up

Unusual noises emitting from the equipment can be a clear sign that something is not functioning correctly, which is the reason it’s important that operators listen for these noises after starting the equipment.

It may be difficult to clearly assess whether or not the operator performed this check during the evaluation since it can be hard to visually confirm if someone is listening.

You may want to let the operator know in advance that you’ll be evaluating this check and to give you some type of indication when it’s being performed. This can make it a bit easier for you to evaluate this correctly.