Abstract: An apparatus and system that ensures that defined equipment systems are monitored and checked before the equipment may be used is described. The invention includes apparatus that encourages the equipment operator to perform specified monitoring checks on specified systems at specified intervals, and requires that the check is done by the operator physically removing a check device such as a crankcase or transmission dipstick, radiator cap, air filter, and so on. Failure to perform the required monitoring task results in the equipment being disabled or locked out so that the operator is unable to use the equipment; for example, a starter motor may be locked out so that the engine cannot start until a specified monitoring check has been completed.