A comprehensive underground articulated truck safety and maintenance inspection checklist designed to help mining fleets identify hazards, prevent breakdowns, and maintain safe, compliant underground haulage operations. Start your free inspection trial
Underground Articulated Truck
Safety & Maintenance Inspection Checklist
Inspection Purpose
Underground Hazard Mitigation
- Verifying fire suppression, ventilation systems, and ROPS/FOPS protects operators from the unique dangers of confined underground environments.
Hydraulic & Brake Integrity
- Checking hoist cylinders, brake oil, and steering systems prevents runaway vehicles on steep underground declines and ramps.
Reliability in Remote Zones
- Daily inspections of filters, fluids, and drive components minimize breakdown risk in hard-to-reach underground locations.
1. Ground Level Inspection
Walk around the machine to inspect undercarriage, chassis, and safety systems:
Wheels & Undercarriage
Fluids & Tanks
Frame & Safety
2. Engine Compartment (Top Platform)
Inspect engine fluids, belts, and hoses before starting:
Engine Fluids & Cooling
Belts & Hoses
3. On the Machine, Outside Cab (Top Platform)
Check access points, visibility, and safety equipment:
Access & Structure
Air & Hydraulics
Visibility & Safety
4. Inside the Cab
Verify operator safety and control systems:
Operator Safety
Controls & Indicators
Digital Underground Fleet Inspections
Fleet Rabbit App Benefits for Mining Operations:
- ✓ Enforce mandatory fire suppression checks before every shift
- ✓ Track ROPS/FOPS inspection dates and certifications digitally
- ✓ Instantly flag defects to surface maintenance teams from underground
- ✓ Maintain MSHA-compliant inspection records with automatic timestamps
- ✓ Monitor hour meters for precise preventive maintenance scheduling
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the Duo-Cone seal area important to check?
Duo-Cone seals protect the final drives and wheel bearings from contamination. Underground environments are extremely abrasive, and a leaking or damaged seal allows dirt and water intrusion, leading to catastrophic bearing failure.
2. How often should fire suppression systems be inspected?
MSHA regulations require daily visual checks and more thorough periodic inspections. A fire underground is exceptionally dangerous due to limited escape routes and ventilation, making suppression system readiness critical.
3. What is ROPS/FOPS and why is it checked?
ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) protect the operator. In underground mines, roof falls and equipment tip-overs are constant risks. Any crack, weld damage, or loose bolt compromises this protection.
Standardize Underground Articulated Truck Inspections
Ensure every truck in your underground fleet meets safety standards with repeatable, digital inspection workflows.
