Field logistics
Vehicle checks before a remote mission
A documented check addresses defects, prepares the journey and confirms support before departure.
1. Identify the vehicle.
Match the mission to a vehicle suitable for the approved route and verify maintenance status. Confirm driver authorization and fitness under applicable organizational rules. Review previously reported defects and their documented closure before accepting the keys. This general guidance does not replace professional inspection, formal journey risk assessment or manufacturer operating instructions. If suitability or maintenance information is uncertain, refer the decision to the fleet lead before departure.
2. Walk around safely.
In a safe area, check visible damage, leaks, defective lights and obstacles around the vehicle. Examine tire condition and verify pressure against manufacturer specifications and the expected load, without improvising terrain adjustments. Report anomalies to the fleet lead with the vehicle identifier. If a defect could compromise safety, keep the vehicle out of service until a competent person confirms it is suitable for the mission.
3. Check the driving position.
Inspect seat belts, mirrors, visibility, warning devices and indicators using the approved procedure. Check fluid levels only when conditions and manufacturer instructions permit. Any functional check must remain in an authorized area without exposing people to moving vehicles. An abnormal warning or unusual response requires competent assessment; do not continue merely to meet a schedule. Record unresolved findings clearly rather than treating an unexplained warning as routine.
4. Prepare the load.
Check passenger numbers, available space and the vehicle load limits. Have tools and luggage secured with appropriate restraints by competent people. Keep access, seat belts and emergency equipment clear. Verify drinking water and resources planned for the journey, including items needed during a foreseeable delay. Document the final loading check so the driver knows what is aboard and can identify changes before the return trip.
5. Confirm the journey.
Verify fuel or energy range with a margin defined in the journey plan and confirm replenishment points are actually available. Check maps, communications and reporting times. Schedule breaks and address fatigue risks with the supervisor before leaving. Share the approved itinerary; significant changes must be authorized and communicated before continuing. Do not rely on an assumed open service point or an unverified shortcut to recover lost time.
6. Record and report.
Log the inspection, anomalies and departure decision in the designated record. Confirm assistance contacts and the breakdown response before the journey starts. Protect people and request qualified support under the approved plan without improvised recovery. On return, report new defects and isolate the vehicle when necessary so the next team does not discover a problem en route. Assign follow-up responsibility rather than leaving a warning only in conversation.
7. Use a technical departure sheet.
Record vehicle, driver, date and mileage. Check brakes and steering through the authorized procedure, every occupied seat belt, tires and a compatible spare wheel. Check oil, coolant and other specified fluids safely when cold, with the engine stopped where the manufacturer requires; never open a hot pressurized system. Verify load limits and tie-downs, an appropriate inspected fire extinguisher, and an accessible first-aid kit with current contents. Document each defect, its safety significance, action owner and any out-of-service decision. Require documented closure by competent maintenance personnel before release. The field team must not attempt DIY repairs to meet departure time.