Do These Inspections Before Operating an Excavator

If you are an excavator operator, it is crucial to understand its functions and operating procedures. However, before operating the excavator, we must conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the equipment is in optimal condition. This inspection is essential to prevent workplace accidents caused by operator negligence or equipment failure.

To ensure the safety of the operator and individuals in the work area, follow these steps for excavator inspection:

1. Visual Inspection

• Physical Structure:

• Check the condition of the boom, arm, and bucket to ensure there are no cracks, deformations, or damage.
• Inspect bolts, nuts, and pins on the bucket connection or other attachments.

• Hydraulic System:

• Check for any leaks in hoses, joints, or hydraulic cylinders.
• Verify hydraulic oil pressure according to manufacturer standards.

• Undercarriage:

• Inspect the track condition to ensure no excessive wear, damage, or uneven wear.
• Ensure track tension is within the specified range.

• Glass and Wipers:

• Make sure the cabin windows are clean and free from cracks or breakage.
• Check wipers and washers to ensure they are functioning correctly.

• Lights and Alarms:

• Ensure work lights, signal lights, and warning alarms are operational.

2. Operational System Inspection

• Fuel:

• Ensure the fuel tank is adequately filled for work activities.

• Oil and Fluids:

• Check the levels of engine oil, hydraulic oil, swing oil, and final drive oil.
• Inspect the radiator coolant level and ensure it is sufficient.
• Make sure brake fluid or other lubricants are not running low.

• Filters:

• Check the cleanliness of the air, oil, and fuel filters.

3. Operational Function Test

• Indicator Panel:

• Start the engine and check whether all dashboard indicator lights function normally.
• Ensure that no warning indicators are lit.

• Brakes and Safety System:

• Test the parking brake and ensure it operates correctly.
• Inspect the functionality of the seat belt in the operator’s seat.

• Control Levers:

• Test the control levers to ensure proper boom, arm, bucket, swing, and track response.

• Horn and Alarm:

• Check the horn and reverse alarm functions.

• Attachments:

• Test the bucket or other attachments (such as breakers or grapples) to ensure they function as needed.

4. Worksite Inspection

• Ensure the work area is safe and free from obstructions and that no individuals are near the equipment.
• Inspect the ground or work surface conditions to avoid landslides or instability.

5. Documentation and Reporting

• Logbook:

• Record inspection results in the heavy equipment operational logbook.

• Reporting:

• If there is any damage or issue, report it immediately to the technician or supervisor before operating the equipment.

Regular inspections will enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and prevent severe damage to the excavator.

Excellence After Sales Service

Performing regular excavator inspections is a mandatory task for customers to maintain optimal heavy equipment performance and maximize profitability. This practice also  enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and prevent severe excavator damage.

In addition to providing top-quality heavy equipment, buses, trucks, and cranes, United Tractors is committed to delivering the best service for its Business Partners through United Tractors Guaranteed Product Support (UTGPS). UTGPS offers various machine inspection programs and ensures timely delivery of spare parts, mechanic dispatch, and unit servicing.

For further consultation on heavy equipment, contact the UT Call Center, available 24/7, at 1500 072 or visit the nearest United Tractors branch office.