How often should a skid steer be inspected?

Before it's used each shift, with the engine off and then running. Follow the maker's manual for service intervals, and your site's own rules for records.

What should I do if the skid steer fails the check?

Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else runs it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked. A failed restraint, latch or brake is a stop.

Does this skid steer checklist meet OSHA requirements?

It's a starting point. The maker's manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Free template

A skid steer inspection checklist you can print today.

Walk the machine with the engine off, then check it running. Look hard at the cab, the restraints and the attachment latch. Print the sheet or save it as a PDF. Use it alongside the manufacturer's operator manual and your site's procedures.

Also calledSkid steer daily checklist, Skid steer pre-use inspection, Compact track loader checklist, Bobcat inspection checklist

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.

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Skid steer checklist

Date

Time

Site or location

Operator name

Machine make, model and unit number

Hour meter reading

Before you start (engine off)

PassFailN/A

Operator's manual and any load or capacity labels are in the cab and readable
Cab frame, door or side screens and overhead guard are intact
Seat, seat belt and seat bar or restraint are in good condition
Lift arms, pins and bushings show no cracks, bends or wear
Lift arm support or lock is in place and works
Bucket or attachment is secure, and the coupler or latch locks fully
Hydraulic hoses, couplers and cylinders are free of leaks
Tires, wheels or tracks are in good condition, and lug nuts are tight
Engine oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid and fuel levels are correct
Mirrors, lights, glass and warning labels are clean and undamaged
Radiator and engine area are clear of debris

After you start (engine on)

PassFailN/A

Gauges and warning lights work, and none stay on
Seat bar or restraint interlock works, so the controls lock when it's raised
Horn, back-up alarm and lights work
Steering and drive controls respond smoothly
Lift and tilt controls work and hold their position
Parking brake holds
Quick coupler locks when the attachment is on
No unusual noises, smells or vibration
Fire extinguisher is in place, if your site requires one

Work area

PassFailN/A

Ground is firm, with no soft spots, edges or holes
People and overhead hazards are clear of the machine's reach
Operator is trained on this machine and wears the PPE the site requires

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
Check before every shift
Do it before the machine is used, and again at a shift change if it runs around the clock.
Step 2
Mark every line
Pass, fail or not applicable. Don't leave a line blank. A blank line is a question nobody can answer later.
Step 3
Tag out a failure
If a restraint, a latch or a brake fails, don't use the machine. Tag it, report it and write what you found.

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

How often should a skid steer be inspected?: Before it's used each shift, with the engine off and then running. Follow the maker's manual for service intervals, and your site's own rules for records.
What should I do if the skid steer fails the check?: Stop using it. Tag it out of service so nobody else runs it, tell your supervisor, and write down what failed. It goes back into service after it's been repaired and checked. A failed restraint, latch or brake is a stop.
Does this skid steer checklist meet OSHA requirements?: It's a starting point. The maker's manual, your company procedures and the rules that apply to you decide what must be checked. Add or remove lines to match. A checklist records that a check happened. It doesn't guarantee compliance.

Related and more free tools

Free tool

A skid steer inspection checklist you can print today.

Skid steer checklist

Before you start (engine off)

After you start (engine on)

Work area

Three habits that make it worth filling out.

Check before every shift

Mark every line

Tag out a failure

Do this on a phone instead of paper.

Get new free tools by email.

Common questions

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