Free prestart checklist · Australia

Free pre start checklist for plant and vehicles

Daily prestart inspection covering engine, fluids, tyres, safety gear and plant-specific items. Pass / fail / N/A. Or skip the paper and let your operator tap it through in 60 seconds.

See Burgy's prestart app

Free PDF. Or use Burgy's prestart app — failed items auto-create a repair job.

What's in the checklist

Covers a working machine — not just a car. Built from Burgy's actual prestart templates used on civil sites.

24+ inspection items across 5 categories
Pass / Fail / N/A column per item
Notes column for every row
Engine, fluids, tyres / tracks sections
Safety & compliance items (ROPS, fire extinguisher, first aid)
Lights, controls, electrical checks
Plant-specific (bucket, hitch, slew, auto-grease)
Operator + supervisor sign-off with status (Safe / Caution / Out of Service)
FAQ

Prestart questions

What is a prestart check (and why do it daily)?

A prestart is a quick inspection by the operator before the machine is used — engine fluids, tyres, lights, controls, safety gear. Done daily so a failing item gets caught before it becomes an incident or a warranty claim refusal.

Is a prestart legally required in Australia?

WHS Regulations require plant to be inspected and maintained. State authorities and most principal contractors require a daily prestart record per machine. A documented prestart is the simplest evidence the duty has been met.

What if an item fails the prestart?

Any FAIL requires action before the machine is used. Minor failures can be 'operate with caution' with supervisor sign-off. Critical failures (brakes, steering, ROPS, hydraulic leaks) mean the machine goes out of service until repaired.

Can I use this template for vehicles AND heavy plant?

Yes. The template covers engine, fluids, tyres or tracks, safety gear, lights, controls and plant-specific items (buckets, hitches, slew brakes). For specialised plant you can add items in the notes column.