Five minutes before you drive can save a lifetime of regret. Pre-operational checks are the habit that separates professional drivers from everyone else.
Why bother?
A truck that fails on the road doesn't just inconvenience you. A blown tyre or failed brake on a heavy vehicle can be catastrophic. Checking before you leave is the cheapest insurance there is, and it's part of what you'll be assessed on.
A simple walk-around routine
- Look underneath for fresh leaks: oil, coolant, fuel or air.
- Tyres: look for damage, low pressure and tread wear. Check wheel nuts for signs of movement.
- Lights and indicators: headlights, brake lights, indicators and hazards. Get someone to help or use reflections.
- Mirrors and windows: clean, adjusted and uncracked.
- Fluids: engine oil, coolant and washer fluid.
- Air system: build up pressure and listen for leaks before moving.
- Load: secure, restrained and within limits.
- In the cab: horn, wipers, gauges, seatbelt and warning lights.
Make it a habit, not a chore
Do it in the same order every single time. Within a week it becomes automatic, and you'll start noticing things other drivers miss.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator publishes guidance on daily checks at nhvr.gov.au.
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