Essential Pre-Start Checks

Essential Safety & Pre-Start Checks Before Using Access Equipment from Australian Access Hire (AAH)

Hiring access equipment such as scissor lifts, straight boom lifts, knuckle booms, telehandlers or forklifts can greatly improve efficiency and safety on your worksite; but only when the machinery is operated correctly and inspected before use.

At Australian Access Hire (AAH), we supply fully maintained, site-ready machines. However, safe operation also requires daily pre-start checks carried out by the operator before every shift. These inspections help prevent incidents, reduce downtime and ensure your equipment operates at peak performance.

Below is a comprehensive guide to the key safety and pre-start checks recommended for all access equipment.

Why Pre-Start Checks Matter

Performing pre-start inspections ensures that:

• The machine is safe to operate
• Faults are identified before they become hazards
• The operator is familiar with controls and safety systems
• Mechanical issues are detected early
• You comply with WHS obligations and site safety rules

Even a small issue—like a low battery or worn tyre—can lead to a breakdown or unsafe working conditions if not caught early.

Pre-Start Checks for All Access Equipment (Scissor Lifts, Boom Lifts, Telehandlers, Forklifts)

Although each machine type has its own specific requirements, the following checklist applies to all access equipment hired from AAH.

1. Visual Walk-Around Inspection

Before powering up the machine, perform a 360-degree walk-around to check for:

• Damage, cracks or structural deformities
• Leaks (hydraulic, fuel, coolant, battery acid)
• Tyre wear or deflation (including non-marking tyres on EWPs)
• Missing or loose bolts, pins or retaining clips
• Damaged handrails or platform gates
• Worn or damaged hoses and cables
• Clear signage and readable safety decals

This step is essential for spotting obvious hazards before the machine is used.

2. Fluid, Battery & Power System Checks

Depending on the machine type, check:

• Hydraulic oil level
• Engine oil
• Coolant level
• Fuel level (diesel, LPG)
• Battery charge
• Charger cables and plugs
• Power units for signs of overheating

Electric scissor lifts and booms should always start the day with a full charge.

3. Tyres, Wheels & Brakes

Inspect the machine’s mobility components:

• Tyre condition (no balding, cuts, chunking or flat spots)
• Correct inflation pressure (if pneumatic tyres)
• Wheel nuts secure
• Parking brake functions correctly
• Brakes respond smoothly during low-speed test

Safe movement is critical before raising the platform or boom.

4. Controls & Safety Systems

Test all safety features from the ground controls first, then the platform controls. Confirm that:

• Emergency stop buttons operate correctly
• Emergency lowering system works
• Horn and alarms function
• Tilt sensor and overload alarms activate correctly
• Outriggers/stabilisers deploy properly (if fitted)
• Speed controls respond smoothly
• Steering operates normally

AAH machines are maintained to high standards, but daily operator testing ensures nothing has changed since the previous shift.

5. Platform, Boom or Mast Condition

Check that:

• Platform floor is clean and free from debris
• Gates and toe boards are secure
• Harness anchor points (if applicable) are undamaged
• Boom sections extend/retract smoothly
• Scissor arms are free of debris and lubricated
• Telehandler boom is not cracked, bent or leaking

Any obstruction or defect in the lifting mechanism can pose a serious hazard.

6. Documentation & Compliance

Ensure the following are present and up-to-date:

• Operator’s manual
• Logbook/service records
• Risk assessment/SWMS (site requirement)
• Valid inspection tags
• Familiarisation records for the operator

AAH supplies all machines with the correct documentation, but confirming placement and currency is still essential.

When to Report a Fault

If you find any issue, no matter how minor, do not operate the machine.

Contact Australian Access Hire (AAH) immediately so we can:

• Provide guidance
• Repair the issue
• Replace the machine if required

Never attempt to repair an access machine unless you are trained, authorised and licensed to do so.

Additional Safety Tips for Operators

• Always wear appropriate PPE
• Keep platforms clean and free of loose items
• Never exceed the rated load capacity
• Avoid operating in high wind conditions
• Maintain a safe exclusion zone below the work area
• Use harnesses where required
• Stay aware of overhead hazards (power lines, beams, structures)
• Only operate machinery you are trained and competent to use

Safe operation protects not only the operator but everyone on the worksite.

Hire Safe, Reliable Access Equipment from AAH

At Australian Access Hire, we supply high-quality, fully serviced access equipment across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Every machine in our fleet is maintained to strict safety standards; but the final layer of safety comes from the operator performing correct pre-start checks.

If you need scissor lifts, boom lifts, forklifts or telehandlers for your next project, AAH provides:

• Fast delivery
• Competitive hire rates
• Expert support
• 24/7 breakdown assistance

Ready to Book Your Next Hire?

Contact Australian Access Hire (AAH) today for safe, reliable access equipment backed by industry-leading support.