Before starting a shift operating an excavator on a residential construction site in Alberta, what is the primary purpose of conducting a pre-operational inspection as per the Alberta OHS Code Part 14, Section 202?

Question: Before starting a shift operating an excavator on a residential construction site in Alberta, what is the primary purpose of conducting a pre-operational inspection as per the Alberta OHS Code Part 14, Section 202?

Answer options:

• To ensure the machine is ready for fuel top-up at the end of the shift.
• To confirm the operator's personal protective equipment (PPE) is clean. ✅ To identify any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safe operation of the equipment.
• To record the machine's current hour meter reading for billing purposes.

Correct answer: To identify any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safe operation of the equipment.

Explanation: The primary purpose of a pre-operational inspection is to identify any defects or deficiencies that could compromise the safe operation of the equipment, thereby preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with OHS regulations.