Guide to Backhoes

Note: Strictly speaking, backhoes are the arms found on the back of excavators but the term is also commonly used to describe a certain kind of construction equipment and it is to this usage that this article refers.

Backhoes are known by a variety of names including backhoe loader, loader backhoes or just plain backhoe. They are versatile pieces of heavy machinery consisting of a tractor, with a bucket or shovel on the front and a small backhoe fitted on the back. However, when both the loader and the backhoe are permanently attached (sometimes the front assembly is removable) the vehicle is rarely referred to as a tractor and backhoes are not generally used to tow.

In fact, in the UK, you are more likely to hear backhoes referred to as JCBs, after the company that invented them back in 1953. Such a name is obviously inaccurate in many cases since there are a large number of manufacturers such as Bobcat, John Deere, Cat, Kubato, Komatsu, Terex, Volvo and Case besides JCB.

Backhoes are commonly used for a wide variety of jobs, duplicating the work of an excavator, front end loader and bulldozer. This makes them extremely popular with construction companies reducing the need for more than one piece of equipment on smaller jobs. They can excavate, dig holes, transport light building materials, carry out small demolitions, landscape, break asphalt and pave roads.

The tasks above are achieved by replacing the backhoe bucket with other  attachments such as forks, breakers or a backhoe thumb. Removable attachments usually have a separate seat on the attachment itself whilst, when the hoe is a permanent part, the machine usually has a seat that swivels to the back to face the controls.

The backhoe attachment is where the operator's skill and experience are critical since backhoes have three joints that need to be controlled efficiently and there are serious safety issues if an operator is not properly trained. It's hydraulic system can deliver tens of thousands of pounds of pressure which means it can carry out the equivalent work of a large number of people with shovels. For example, a skilled operator can create a trench or installation hole in 15 minutes or less. However, the design of loader backhoes means they are intrinsically top-heavy and the swinging weight of the arm can cause the vehicle to tip. To counteract this, most backhoes use hydraulic outriggers when digging and also lower the loader bucket to add extra stability. The downside of this is that, in order for the vehicle to move position the bucket needs to be raised and the outriggers retracted which reduces efficiency.

Despite the extra time taken to move the vehicle without taking the proper precautions the temptation to cut corners when operating backhoes should be avoided. One of the leading causes of injuries and death associated with this machine is the occurrence of it rolling over. Another common cause of fatality is electrocution so it is vital that operators be aware of where all overhead and buried gas and power lines are situated as part of their safety regimen. This is not said to be alarmist but, rather, to remind you that if you are thinking of buying a new backhoe or investigating backhoe rental or a backhoe sale in general make sure you have appropriate safety training before you start to use it.

If you are looking for or are employed in the construction industry, be aware that no employer should ask a worker to operate backhoes without them having first completed and passed the appropriate safety training. If you find yourself working in a situation that needs you to use or work near people who are using backhoes or other heavy equipment without the correct training, tell your local OSHA office or international equivalent.

Used Backhoes ¦ Backhoe Attachment ¦