Free Pre-Start Checklist (Chaser Bin) Template

Purpose of the Free Pre-Start Checklist (Chaser Bin) Template

Operating heavy agricultural machinery like a chaser bin carries inherent risks. A systematic inspection before each use is a critical control measure to ensure the equipment is safe to operate.

This Free Pre-Start Checklist (Chaser Bin) Template provides a structured starting point for formalising these essential safety checks. Using a checklist helps operators methodically inspect key components, identify potential faults or damage before they lead to an incident, and document that the inspection has taken place.

It is a practical tool for any farming operation committed to improving machinery safety and is aligned with the principles of the model WHS framework in Australia.

Regular, documented checks are a cornerstone of any effective plant safety program. They not only help prevent accidents but also contribute to better maintenance scheduling, reducing downtime during critical periods like harvest.

To reinforce these principles with your team, consider using a Pre-Start Checks and Plant Maintenance Toolbox Talk to discuss the importance of the procedure itself.

How to Use the Free Pre-Start Checklist (Chaser Bin) Template

This Free Pre-Start Checklist (Chaser Bin) Template is available for immediate download in both DOCX and PDF formats. The DOCX file is fully editable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific operational needs.

The PDF version is ready for printing and immediate use.

To use the template effectively:

• Download: Choose your preferred format (DOCX or PDF).
• Customise: Open the DOCX file and adapt the checklist. Add, remove, or modify items to match the specific make and model of your chaser bin(s). Consider your unique operating environment, such as hilly terrain or specific crop types.
• Implement: Train all operators on how to use the checklist correctly. Make it a mandatory part of the daily routine before the chaser bin is first used.
• Review: Store completed checklists as a record of your safety diligence. These records can be invaluable during safety audits or incident investigations.

Important Note: This document is a template only. We provide it as a starting point, but you must customise it to suit the specific plant, tasks, and risks in your workplace.

This process of customisation is essential for creating robust WHS management systems that are truly effective.

When to Use It

The pre-start checklist should be completed at the beginning of each day or shift before the chaser bin is operated for the first time. It is also wise to perform a check after the machinery has been idle for an extended period, after significant maintenance or repairs have been carried out, or if it has been transported to a new location.

The goal is to catch any issues before the machine is put under load.

Who Should Use It

The pre-start check must be carried out by a person who is competent to operate the chaser bin. This means they have received the necessary information, training, and instruction to understand the machine's functions and identify potential hazards.

Farm managers or Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) are responsible for ensuring these checks are implemented and that operators are competent. Integrating this checklist is a proactive step, but if you need broader support, our WHS consulting services can help you develop comprehensive safety procedures for your entire operation.

Key Inspection Areas for a Chaser Bin

While your customised checklist will be more detailed, key areas of focus for any chaser bin inspection should include:

• Guarding: Ensure all guards, particularly for the PTO shaft and augers, are in place, secure, and undamaged.
• Hydraulics: Check all hydraulic hoses, fittings, and cylinders for leaks, cracks, or signs of wear.
• Tyres and Wheels: Inspect tyre pressure, check for cuts or damage, and ensure wheel nuts are tight.
• Structure and Chassis: Look for cracks in welds or signs of stress on the bin, drawbar, and chassis.
• Lights and Signage: If used on or near public roads, confirm that all lights, indicators, and reflective signage (including an oversized vehicle sign if required) are clean and functional.
• Brakes: Test the braking system to ensure it is responsive and effective.
• Augers: Check the condition of the discharge and cross augers, ensuring they are free from obstructions.

This systematic approach is applicable to various types of agricultural machinery. For instance, our free Pre-Start Checklist (Air Seeder) Template follows a similar structure for a different piece of critical farm equipment.

You can find many other similar documents in our free WHS resources library to build a comprehensive safety documentation portfolio for your farm.