Topic outline

  • General

    Manually digging and trenching can be very physically demanding work, here are some advices to use forks and spades

  • Tool Handles


  • Treads on spades


  • Digging with a fork


  • Ergonomic advices

    Manually digging and trenching can be very physically demanding work, made even more dangerous when proper techniques are not employed. Potential hazards include:

    • Muscle strain from attempting to lift too much dirt at one time
    • Overexertion and muscle pain caused by digging for extended periods of time
    • Awkward positions while digging, such as twisting the back or knee

    A few ergonomic solutions  can help eliminate the risk of injury from manually digging:

    • Rather than twisting at the torso, move your feet and turn your entire body when digging or moving dirt.
    • Use tools with long handles to prevent excessive bending of the torso.
    • Make sure you are using the correct shovel for the job: 
      • Round-bladed shovels should be used for sand and dry earth. 
      • Square-bladed shovels should be used for coarse material. 
      • Use shovels with a rolled step for digging in hard earth. 
    • Use smaller trenching shovels to minimize the weight of materials lifted.
    • Break jobs into smaller tasks no longer than 15 minutes in length, alternating with non-
      digging tasks.
    • Alternate between shoveling on the left and right side of the body.
    • Reduce throwing distance by placing wheelbarrows close to the digging area. Ideally, throw distance should be between 3 and 4 feet.
    • Always use proper personal protective equipment.