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Landscaping - Vehicle Start-up - the Circle Check

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What is a circle check?

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A circle check is a visual and audible inspection of a vehicle or mobile equipment. The circle check allows operators to look and listen for any areas of concern. If a concern is noted, do not use that vehicle or equipment until the issue has been addressed.   

A circle check should be completed at the start of the shift or before a new operator takes control of the vehicle.  Many workplaces will provide a pre-operational checklist logbook in each vehicle. This logbook is a recordkeeping tool that records the date, operator, and the elements that were checked before each use.


What should I do before starting a vehicle?

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  • Read, understand, and follow manufacturer's operating manual.
  • Know how to operate the vehicle and use any related equipment or attachments safety. Be familiar with the location and function of all the controls.
  • Inspect your vehicle daily.
  • Develop a routine method of inspecting vehicle (e.g. start at the front on the driver's side and walk towards the back, and around past the passenger side, checking the items listed below).
Be familiar with the location and function of all the controls

There are many tips in other Landscaping OSH Answers documents.


What should I check before operating a vehicle?

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  • Adjust seat and controls.
  • Make sure you have your driver's license on you as well as any training certificates that may be required.
  • Fasten seat belt if tractor/loader is equipped with roll-over protection structure (ROPS).

Below is a sample inspection checklist. Always adapt sample checklists to meet the needs of your organization, the equipment specifications, and any legislative requirements.

Vehicle or Equipment Inspected:

Date:

Odometer:

Operator:

 

OK

Not OK

Element Verified

 

 

Parking Brake - holds against slight acceleration

 

 

Foot Brake - holds, stops vehicle smoothly

 

 

Clutch and Gearshift - shifts smoothly without jumping or jerking

 

 

Steering - moves smoothly; no "play"

 

 

Lights - headlights, warning lights, and turn signals operational

 

 

Dash Control Panel - all lights and gauges operational

 

 

All Moving Parts - no strange noises

 

 

Horn – operational

 

 

Visibility - mirrors properly adjusted; windows clean and intact

 

 

Wipers/washer - functioning and intact

 

 

Tires - pressure, tread depth or damage

 

 

Wheels and fasteners - no defects in rim, loose or missing fasteners

 

 

Seat belts - in good condition and being used

 

 

Vehicle back-up alarm - operational, where required

 

 

Hydraulic systems - no evidence of leaks and systems operate smoothly

 

 

For tractors, power take off shields - in place

 

 

Fluid levels verified - oil, gas, brakes, washer fluid. Check for leaks

 

 

Load - secure and complying with regulations; hitch in good condition

 

 

Emergency equipment - installed and inspected as required by law or company policy

 

 

Additional Notes:

 

 

Record and report any defects to your supervisor immediately.

 

 


  • Fact sheet confirmed current: 2022-05-26
  • Fact sheet last revised: 2022-05-26

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