trailer inspection
Generated on: August 26, 2025
Trailer Safety Inspection Checklist
Date: 2025-08-26
Inspector: [INSPECTOR NAME]
Location/Area: [LOCATION/AREA]
Department: [DEPARTMENT]
Purpose
To ensure trailers are safe and compliant with regulations through pre-trip, periodic, and annual inspections.
Instructions for Use
- Review the entire checklist before starting the inspection to understand all requirements.
- Complete each item on the checklist, noting any deficiencies.
- Ensure all corrective actions are implemented and documented.
- Sign and date the checklist upon completion.
Frequency
This checklist should be completed: Daily
Safety Checklist
Pre-Trip Inspection
To be completed before each trip.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check tires for proper inflation and wear. Check: Tires are inflated to the specified pressure (refer to VIN decal) and have no visible damage or excessive wear. If failed: Inflate tires to correct pressure. Replace worn or damaged tires. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect wheels, nuts, and bolts for tightness. Check: All wheel nuts and bolts are present and tightened to the correct torque. If failed: Tighten loose nuts and bolts. Replace missing ones. | _________________ | ||
| Verify all electrical connections, lights, and reflectors are in proper working order. Check: All lights (brake lights, turn signals, clearance lights) and reflectors are clean and functioning correctly. If failed: Replace any non-functioning lights or damaged reflectors. Repair any faulty wiring. | _________________ | ||
| Ensure the trailer is properly attached to the towing vehicle. Check: Hitch is properly secured, safety chains are connected, and all connections are secure. If failed: Adjust and secure the hitch. Replace damaged safety chains. | _________________ | ||
| Make sure that the landing gear is fully retracted and secured. Check: Landing gear is fully retracted and locked in the stowed position. If failed: Retract and secure the landing gear. Repair or replace if damaged. | _________________ |
Periodic Inspection
To be completed every three months or 150 hours, whichever comes first, or before putting into service a machine which has been out of service for a period longer than three (3) months of time.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspect all functions and their controls for speed(s), smoothness and limits of motion. Check: All functions and controls operate smoothly and within specified limits. If failed: Adjust or repair any malfunctioning controls. | _________________ | ||
| Check lower controls including the provisions of overriding of upper controls. Check: Lower controls function correctly and can override upper controls as designed. If failed: Repair or adjust lower controls and override mechanisms. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect all chain and cable mechanisms for adjustment and worn or damaged parts. Check: Chains and cables are properly adjusted, lubricated, and free from excessive wear or damage. If failed: Adjust, lubricate, or replace chains and cables as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Verify all emergency and safety devices. Check: All emergency and safety devices are present and functioning correctly. If failed: Repair or replace any malfunctioning safety devices. | _________________ | ||
| Lubricate all moving parts, inspection of filter element(s), hydraulic oil, engine oil, and coolant as specified by the manufacturer. Check: All moving parts are properly lubricated. Filter elements, hydraulic oil, engine oil, and coolant levels are within specified ranges and in good condition. If failed: Lubricate moving parts. Replace filters and fluids as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Visual inspection of structural components and other critical components such as fasteners, pins, shafts, turntable attachment bolts, and locking devices. Check: Structural and critical components are free from cracks, damage, or excessive wear. Fasteners, pins, shafts, and locking devices are secure and in good condition. If failed: Repair or replace damaged components. Tighten or replace loose fasteners. | _________________ | ||
| Check Placards, warnings and control markings. Check: All placards, warnings, and control markings are legible and in place. If failed: Replace any missing or damaged placards and markings. | _________________ |
Annual Inspection
To be completed annually by a qualified technician.
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete structural inspection. Check: The trailer frame, welds, and structural members show no signs of cracks, bending, or corrosion. If failed: Repair or replace any damaged structural components. | _________________ | ||
| Brake system inspection. Check: Brakes are functioning correctly, with adequate lining thickness and no leaks in the hydraulic or air lines. If failed: Repair or replace brake components as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Axle and suspension inspection. Check: Axles are straight, bearings are properly lubricated, and suspension components are in good condition. If failed: Repair or replace axle and suspension components as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Check and adjust wheel alignment. Check: Wheel alignment is within specified tolerances. If failed: Adjust wheel alignment to meet specifications. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect and test all safety devices. Check: All safety devices, including lights, reflectors, and safety chains, are functioning correctly. If failed: Repair or replace any malfunctioning safety devices. | _________________ |
General Requirements
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check for hydraulic oil or air leaks. Check: No visible hydraulic oil or air leaks are present in the system. If failed: Repair any leaks by tightening fittings or replacing hoses. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect the landing gear. Check: Landing gear operates smoothly and is free from damage. If failed: Repair or replace damaged landing gear components. | _________________ | ||
| Verify proper load securement. Check: All loads are properly secured with appropriate chains, straps, or other tie-down equipment. If failed: Adjust and tighten load securement devices. Add additional securement as needed. | _________________ | ||
| Inspect for proper labeling and warnings. Check: All required labels and warnings are present and legible. If failed: Replace any missing or damaged labels and warnings. | _________________ |
General Requirements
| Item | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ensure all operators are trained and qualified. [4] Check: Only trained and authorized personnel operate or tow the trailer. If failed: Provide training to unqualified personnel. | _________________ | ||
| Comply with all applicable regulations. Check: The trailer complies with all local, state, and federal regulations. If failed: Ensure compliance with all regulations. | _________________ | ||
| Use proper safety chains and trailer hitch. [5] Check: Proper trailer hitch and safety chains are always used. If failed: Replace any damaged or missing safety chains and trailer hitch. | _________________ | ||
| Check the wheels for loosened nuts. [3] Check: Wheels are checked for loosened nuts. If failed: Tighten any loose nuts. | _________________ |
Failed Item Procedures
- If any item fails the inspection, the trailer must be tagged and removed from service until repairs are completed by a qualified technician. [1]
- After repairs, a new pre-operation inspection must be performed before the trailer is returned to service. [1]
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records of all inspections, including dates, findings, and corrective actions taken.
Checklist Completion
Overall Status: ☐ Pass ☐ Fail ☐ Corrective Actions Required
Inspector Signature: Date:
Supervisor Review: Date:
Corrective Actions Completed By: Date:
References and Standards
- Refer to the trailer's VIN decal for specific tire inflation specifications. [2]
- Refer to equipment owner's manual to identify tie-down points. [3]
- Obey all local or state D.O.T. laws when transporting the generator set. [5]
This checklist must be retained for [RETENTION PERIOD].
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Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.