Last reviewed: November 2026
Four free checklists, each as a PDF and Word file with a filled-in example: boom lift, EWP and scissor lift, forklift and machine guarding. Check the machine before every shift, and don't use it if anything fails.
20m boom lift
Machine, site and operator checks before every use, from tilt alarms to emergency lowering.
See template & example →
EWP and scissor lift
Scissor lifts and other elevating work platforms: controls, guard rails, ground and overhead hazards.
See template & example →
Forklift
Tyres, forks, mast, brakes, seatbelt and the site, checked at the start of every shift.
See template & example →
Machine guarding
Guards, interlocks, e-stops and light curtains, with corrective actions recorded.
See template & example →
Boom lifts, knuckle or telescopic, used to work at height: boom lift pre-start checklist.
Scissor lifts and other elevating work platforms: EWP pre-start checklist.
Counterbalance and reach forklifts: forklift pre-start checklist.
Fixed machinery such as presses, saws, conveyors and CNC machines: machine guarding inspection checklist.
The machine guarding checklist is a regular inspection of guards and interlocks rather than a true pre-start, but many sites run a quick version at the start of each shift. Before you work on a machine, not just check it, isolate it with the lockout tagout permit
The machine ID, hour meter, operator and date, so every check can be traced.
Pass, fail or not applicable for each item, not just one tick at the bottom.
The site as well as the machine: ground conditions, overhead hazards, people and traffic.
What happens when something fails: tag the machine out, report it, and don't use it until it's fixed.
Operator and supervisor sign-off, with a photo where it helps.
A pre-start check doesn't replace a licence. Forklifts, and boom-type EWPs with a boom of 11 metres or more, need a high risk work licence. See WorkSafe Queensland's boom-type EWP licence page
Using a scissor lift or telehandler on a construction site? See the scissor lift and telehandler SWMS example
Working from a boom lift or EWP? See the working at heights SWMS example
Most states and territories follow the model work health and safety laws, but Victoria has its own OHS laws, and guidance differs between regulators. We're not a regulator, so check yours before you rely on any template:
EWPs and boom lifts: Safe Work Australia's EWP code of practice
Forklifts: Safe Work Australia's forklift information sheet
Machine guarding: Safe Work Australia's plant code
Before each shift or the first use of the day, and again if the machine changes hands or is damaged. Follow the manufacturer's manual and your site's procedure for anything extra.
Don't use the machine. Tag it out of service, report it to your supervisor, and have it repaired by a competent person before it goes back into use.
Generally yes. A high risk work licence is needed for forklifts and for boom-type EWPs with a boom of 11 metres or more. Check your state regulator for the details.
Not strictly. It's a regular inspection of guards, interlocks and e-stops. Many sites do a quick guarding check at the start of each shift and a fuller inspection on a set schedule.
Yes. Send us one of these checklists, or the one you already use, and we can set it up in the Shadow Forms app so your crew can complete it, add photos and sign on their phones. Upload a form
General information only, not legal advice. Check your state or territory regulator.
Send us the checklist you already use, or one of these, and we'll set it up in the Shadow Forms app with photos and sign-off, no obligation.
Questions? Email us at info@neonroom.com.au
