Excavator/Digger overview
A digger, also known as an excavator or swing shovel is a type of heavy construction equipment. It’s mainly used for digging trenches, holes, and foundations. It can also handle demolition, material moving, and other construction tasks. Diggers come in different sizes, from small and compact to large and powerful. They usually have a rotating platform, a boom, an arm, and a bucket. The operator sits in a cab and uses hydraulic controls to move the arm and bucket for digging and lifting.
N202 Excavator 360 and N016 Micro Excavator 360 (under 1T) – course objectives
To operate an excavator well, you first need to understand the risks and responsibilities that come with being a plant operator. This knowledge helps ensure safe and skilled operation. Start by reading the machine’s handbook to fully understand how it works. You should be able to identify and explain the key parts, as well as the steering and driving controls.
Using and maintaining personal protective equipment (PPE) is vital for safety. Always perform the required pre-operational safety checks as instructed by the manufacturer and by law to make sure the machine is working properly.
When getting on and off the machine, do so safely to avoid injury. Start and stop the engine carefully for smooth operation. Prepare the excavator for travel, adjusting for different terrains, including tight spaces. Check the work area for safety before starting.
Move the excavator to the work area and set it up for the task. Perform the digging tasks efficiently, including loading material into vehicles or containers. After finishing, restore the site by leveling the ground. Attach and remove tools as needed for different jobs. Finally, follow all end-of-shift and shutdown steps to secure and maintain the machine for future use.
Related courses
To use the excavator for lifting, you need to take the N100 Excavator as a Crane – underslung loads course. To attach loads, you also need to complete the N402 Slinger/Signaller course. You may also be interested in N027 Excavation Marshall – Banksperson.
View our other categories here or visit the NPORS website