What's a Pre-start Checklist?

1. Why construction Pre-Start Checklists matter

Pre-start checklists aren’t just box ticking:

• Hazard Identification: By systematically reviewing the work environment, equipment, and tasks, potential dangers can be identified and mitigated before work begins.
• Preventing Accidents and Injuries: Catching an issue before a shift starts can prevent serious incidents, saving lives, preventing injuries, and avoiding costly delays and investigations.
• Ensuring Equipment Readiness: Machines and tools are complex. A pre-start check confirms they are in safe working order, properly maintained, and ready for the day’s work.
• Demonstrating Due Diligence and Compliance: Documented pre-start checks provide a clear record of your commitment to workplace health and safety (WHS) regulations, crucial for audits and investigations.

2. What’s involved in Pre-Start Checklists?

A robust pre-start checklist typically covers a range of critical areas, tailored to the specific work being undertaken that day:

Personnel & Task Awareness:

• Are all workers fit for duty?
• Are all workers aware of the day’s specific tasks and scope of work?
• Have all necessary permits to work been issued and understood?

Site & Work Area Assessment:

• Is the immediate work area clear of obstructions and hazards (e.g., trip hazards, debris)?
• Are access and egress routes clear and safe?
• Is scaffolding or elevated work platforms stable and inspected?
• Are barricades and signage in place as required?
• Have services (underground or overhead) been identified and marked?

Equipment & Machinery Checks:

• Visual Inspection: Are there any obvious defects, leaks, or damage?
• Functionality: Are controls working, lights, horns, brakes, and safety interlocks operational?
• Fluid Levels: Are oil, fuel, and coolant levels adequate?
• Tires/Tracks: Are they in good condition and correctly inflated/tensioned?
• Attachments: Are they securely fitted and appropriate for the task?
• Daily Logbook/Pre-Start Book: Has the machine’s specific pre-start checklist been completed and signed off?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Is all required PPE available, in good condition, and being worn correctly by all personnel? (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, high-vis vests, steel-toed boots, gloves, hearing protection).

Tools & Materials:

• Are all hand tools and power tools in good condition and appropriate for the task?
• Are materials safely stored and accessible?

Environmental Considerations:

• Are weather conditions (e.g., heat, rain, wind) being considered, and are controls in place?

Emergency Preparedness:

• Are emergency contact numbers, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits clearly marked and accessible?
• Is everyone aware of the emergency plan and assembly points?

3. How to do a Pre-Start Checklist

Effective pre-start checklists engage the team:

• Conduct as a Team (Where Possible): For general site areas or specific workgroups, the whole team should be involved. This makes everyone responsibile and gets everyone thinking about hazards. For plant, the operator must complete their specific machine pre-start.
• Designate Responsibility: Clearly assign who is responsible for initiating and overseeing the pre-start for each area or piece of equipment.
• Use Custom Checklists: Don’t use a generic list. Customise it for your project, the specific tasks of the day, and the type of equipment being used. Digital checklists (apps) make this much easier.
• Walk the Talk (Literally): Don’t just read questions from a form. Physically inspect the work area, test equipment, and visually confirm everything.

4. How to record Pre-Starts

Accurate and accessible records are crucial for compliance, auditing, and continuous improvement. You can us a paper based system, or one of many digital platforms or apps.

Key Information to Record:

• • Date and time of Pre-Start
  • Name and signature of person conducting check
  • Machine ID (if applicable)
  • Specific checklist items with a Pass/Fail  or Yes/No/NA option
  • Comments section for any details
  • Actions taken or follow-up

Digital Platforms or Apps:

The benefits of these systems are ease and efficiency:

• Ease of Use: Checklists can be completed on a tablet or smartphone.

• Photo/Video Integration: Attach media directly to reports.

• Cloud Storage: Data is securely stored and accessible from anywhere.

• Automated Reporting: Generate reports instantly.

• Trend Analysis: Track recurring issues or improvements over time.

Examples: Procore, Hammertech, Site Audit Pro, SafetyCulture, or a custom-built solutions.

Standardised Paper Checklists/Forms:

If digital isn’t an option, use well-designed, clear paper forms. Ensure they are:

• Legible: Encourage clear handwriting.
• Dated and Signed: Essential for accountability.
• Filed Systematically: Keep records organised and easily retrievable.