The Pro & Cons of Backhoe Operator Certification

Backhoe operators are not required to be certified.

A backhoe is an excavator that digs up earth by pulling a bucket attached to a boom. Backhoes operators are not legally required to be certified; The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) only requests sufficient training and qualification according to Standard 29 CFR 1926.1427.

Identification

Backhoes are versatile machines used in a variety of trades, including construction, mining, grounds maintenance and even gravedigging. In some instances, employers require operators to use tractors with certified, attachable backhoe equipment.

Significance

While there is no legal requirement for backhoe certification, many employers ask prospective operators to provide proof of qualifications before employing their services. Qualifications can be documented through a certificate and increase the eligibility of a job seeker.

Considerations

Certification is expensive, and only valid for three to five years. Many construction workers are self-employed and have to pay for their own training and certification. Fees for backhoe certification courses in 2011 start at $350 for four hours of training.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Construction Equipment Operators
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Material Moving Occupations
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Grounds Maintenance Workers
• OSHA: 29 CFR 1926.1427 Operator Qualification and Certification

Resources

• Center of Disease Control: Preventing Injuries When Working with Hydraulic Excavators and Backhoes
• New York State Department of Transportation: Backhoe Certification Form
• OSTS Inc: Backhoe Safety Certification
• Bates Technical College: Forklift & Backhoe/Loader Course