During the cab check, what is the first step after starting the engine?

The first step after starting the engine during a cab check is to depress the clutch. This action is crucial for ensuring that the vehicle is in a safe and operable state before performing further checks. By depressing the clutch, the driver can effectively disengage the transmission from the engine, which allows for smoother operation and prevents the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Performing this step first guarantees that the driver can take control of the vehicle if needed and confirms that the clutch mechanism is functioning correctly. This step is foundational to safely transitioning into further inspections and checks within the cab and around the vehicle. It establishes a secure posture before checking other critical components such as oil pressure or engaging other vehicle systems, such as lights and brakes.