Backhoe Certification

A backhoe, also called a rear actor or back actor, is a piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm. We offer OSHA certified training at our location or yours.

Bring:

• pen & Pad to write
  
• comfortable clothes
• construction boots preferably but not mandatory. No open toe shoes
• no shorts

What to expect:

• some of the course will happen in our classroom setting which will include part lecture and film
• other training will happen in the range in real life settings with the machinery.

What is a backhoe?

A backhoe, also called a rear actor or back actor, is a piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm. They are typically mounted on the back of a tractor or front loader, the latter forming a ‘backhoe loader.

The section of the arm closest to the vehicle is known as the boom, and the section which carries the bucket is known as the dipper or dipper-stick , terms derived from steam shovels). The boom is generally attached to the vehicle through a pivot known as the king-post, which allows the arm to pivot left and right, usually through a total of around 180–200 degrees.

Backhoe Safety Tips

Backhoes are commonly used on most construction jobs that require trenching work. With any equipment it is important for everyone on the project to be aware of where backhoes are operating to minimize the potential for injury. Two common causes of injury or death:

• Being struck by the moving machine, swinging booms, or other machine components
• Being struck by quick-disconnect excavator buckets that unexpectedly detach from the excavator stick.

Recommendations
The following recommendations can be used to create a safe working environment when operating backhoes and excavator equipment. Locate overhead and underground utility lines before beginning work. Avoid working near overhead power lines. If you must work near them, develop a plan to avoid contact. Operate hydraulic excavators or backhoes only on grades specified by the manufacturer. Position machinery at a safe distance from excavations and trenches. Train equipment operators in the proper use of the equipment they are assigned to operate. Identify and label all machine controls and ensure they are working properly. Securely latch attachments, such as quick disconnect buckets, before work begins. Conduct visual and operational checks on all machine systems and operating controls before use. Make frequent visual inspections of quick disconnect systems, especially after changing attachments. Use the rollover protection system (ROPS) and seat belts supplied by the manufacturer. Do not exceed load capacities when lifting materials. Lower the boom to a safe position with the bucket on the ground and turn off the machine before stepping off for any reason. Make all workers on the site aware of the machines’ established swing areas and blind spots before the operator works the machine. Before each work shift begins, review and confirm communication signals between machine operators and workers on foot. Keep workers outside the hydraulic excavator swing areas and clear of attachments when using the machines for hoisting materials. Do not allow workers to stand under suspended loads or suspended machine components such as the boom, arm, or bucket. Do not permit workers on foot to approach the hydraulic excavator or backhoe loader until they signal the operator to shut down the machine and receive acknowledgment from the operator. Use spotters or signal persons around operating equipment when necessary. Never permit workers to ride in or work from excavator or backhoe loader buckets. Provide workers on foot with high visibility vests. The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you. LC 12‐292

is a backhoe an excavator?

In recent years, more contractors are opting for a mini hydraulic excavator instead of a backhoe loader. Both machines can benefit your project, but understanding your jobsite applications is the key to making the right decision for your job.