What is a pre-operational check?

A pre-operational check is a systematic inspection conducted before operating heavy machinery to ensure safety and functionality. This process involves carefully assessing various components of the equipment, including fluid levels, brakes, lights, horns, and other critical systems, to confirm that everything is in proper working order before use. By performing this check, operators can identify potential issues that may lead to accidents or malfunctions during operation, thereby enhancing workplace safety.

Given this context, maintenance logs are intended for tracking the service history and repairs of the equipment and are not associated with pre-operational inspections. Inspections after the shift ends do serve a purpose, but they do not fit the definition of a pre-operational check, which specifically occurs before equipment use. Lastly, a checklist of operator qualifications is focused on the skills and training of the operator rather than the condition of the machinery itself, further distinguishing it from the process of ensuring equipment readiness.