Major Duties of a Backhoe Operator

A backhoe is a piece of heavy equipment used to dig trenches and holes. A good backhoe driver has skill, knowledge and a vast understanding of the machine. While much of the learning is done behind the wheel with hands-on experience, various training courses are available to sharpen your skills.

Backhoes and Equipment Safety

Employers require backhoe operators to perform duties in a safe manner. Property safety precautions protect the operator, other employees and the machinery. Each backhoe has a safety manual outlining proper use. Often, the company has an additional safety policy operators must read and sign.

Also, know the safety standards for excavating and trenching set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. States require backhoe operators to carry a specialized license or permit for the operation of heavy machinery. For instance, Michigan backhoe operations are detailed in the state's Construction Safety Standards, covering "mobile equipment."

Backhoe Machine Operation

As a backhoe operator, understanding how the machine operates is extremely important. This includes opening and closing the bucket, raising and lowering the boom, and digging, lifting and dumping dirt. Additionally, the operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging.

Backhoe Machine Maintenance

Operating the machine is only half of the work for a backhoe operator. The other half involves maintaining the equipment and performing safety checks each time you operate it. General maintenance includes checking and changing the belts fluids, such as oil and hydraulic fluid. Cleaning dirt and grease from the moving and non-moving parts is also necessary to keep the machine running properly. Replace any broken or worn parts before operating the backhoe.

Backhoe and Heavy Equipment Knowledge

When moving a load, it is important not to raise it too high. This may cause the backhoe to tip over. You will need to know your machine’s load and reach limits before using it. For instance, most backhoes have a 14-foot reach, according to Popular Mechanics. Leaving the seat is a hazard when operating a backhoe. Also, never walk or crawl around or under a running backhoe. As an operator, it is your responsibility to make sure no one else enters your work area while the backhoe is in operation.