What is a line startup checklist?

A short list of checks done before a production line runs. It covers safety, setup and quality, so problems get caught on the first piece and not the hundredth.

Who does the startup check?

The operator or the line lead, depending on your site. Your procedure decides who is allowed to restart a line and who signs.

Can I change the checklist for my line?

Yes. This is a base. Add steps from the maker's manual and your work instructions, and drop what doesn't apply. Keep it short enough that people do it.

Free template

A line startup checklist for the start of the shift.

Check the line before it runs, not after the first jam. Go in order, from the floor to the first piece. Print the sheet or save it as a PDF.

Also calledProduction line startup checklist, Machine startup checklist, Shift startup check, Line start-up form

See the sheet All free tools

Free to print, copy and change. It’s a starting point. Add the lines your equipment and your rules need.

Edit it in the builder

Line startup checklist

Date

Time

Line or cell

Work order

Operator

Shift

Area and safety

PassFailN/A

Area is clear, clean and free of tools and loose parts
Guards are in place and interlocks work
Emergency stops are tested and work
Lockout is off and everyone who locked out has signed off
Walkways and exits are clear

Setup

PassFailN/A

Materials and components are staged and are the right ones
Tooling and fixtures match the job
Settings match the work order
Gauges and instruments are in place and ready
Scrap and reject bins are empty and labeled

Handover and start

PassFailN/A

Handover notes from the last shift are read
Open issues or defects from the last shift are known
People on the line are briefed on the job and the hazards
First piece is checked and passes before the run continues
Lead is told the line is up

Defects found and action taken

Taken out of service? Yes NoReported to

Inspector signature

Date

Supervisor review

Date

A starting point. Adapt it to your equipment, your procedures and the rules that apply to you.Free template from portalbaseai.com

How to use it

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Step 1
Don't start until it's done
Finish the check before the line runs. A line that starts first and gets checked later has already had its first mistake.
Step 2
Read the handover
The last shift knows what's loose, worn or off. The note is worth one minute.
Step 3
Check the first piece
Compare it to the work order and the spec. If it's off, stop and fix the setup before you run more.

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Run this check on a phone, with a photo on any failed step, no signal needed. A failed step opens a repair and the record is kept for you.

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Common questions

What is a line startup checklist?: A short list of checks done before a production line runs. It covers safety, setup and quality, so problems get caught on the first piece and not the hundredth.
Who does the startup check?: The operator or the line lead, depending on your site. Your procedure decides who is allowed to restart a line and who signs.
Can I change the checklist for my line?: Yes. This is a base. Add steps from the maker's manual and your work instructions, and drop what doesn't apply. Keep it short enough that people do it.

Related and more free tools

Free tool

A line startup checklist for the start of the shift.

Line startup checklist

Area and safety

Setup

Handover and start

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Don't start until it's done

Read the handover

Check the first piece

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Get new free tools by email.

Common questions

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