Supplies for Earthmoving and Excavation

The vibrating plate should be chosen according to the type of soil and the surface to be compacted. For gravel and sand lighter plates are enough, while clay soils or thick layers need greater forces. The thickness of the layer to be compacted determines how many passes are needed. Check the plate before use and wear safety footwear and ear defenders.

The walk-behind vibratory roller is suited to larger, more regular surfaces, where a plate would work too slowly. It gives uniform compaction and a good evenness of the surface. It should be used on soils that are not too wet, because excess water reduces its effectiveness. For tight spaces or corners, the plate or the rammer remain more practical.

The pneumatic rammer and the vibratory rammer work where a larger machine cannot fit, such as in narrow pipe trenches. The pneumatic rammer pounds the soil with blows, while the vibratory rammer compacts it by vibration. The choice depends on the type of backfill material and the depth of the excavation. In excavations the walls must be protected as required by Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety.

The cross-line laser projects two perpendicular lines and is used to align pipes, foundations and gradients. The optical level is simpler and suited to fixed levels over moderate distances. The receiver is used when the light is strong or the distance is great. Check the calibration before starting and mount the instrument on a stable tripod, away from vibrations.

Pipe and block grabs attach to the unit to carry it and lay it accurately. Lifting columns are used to raise the load in a controlled way. Before lifting, check the weight of the load and the capacity marked on the tool. Never stand under a suspended load, use undamaged slings and mark off the work area.

The shovel is used to load and move earth or gravel, the spade to dig and finish. The pickaxe breaks hard ground and stones. The fibreglass handle is impact-resistant and light, while the wooden one is more traditional. Choose the tool according to the material to be dug and your height, and check the handle before each use.

Before digging, identify the presence of buried pipes, cables and lines, with checks and surveys where possible. Dig carefully near the lines, preferring hand tools. The excavation walls must be supported or sloped according to the depth and the type of soil. Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 on workplace safety requires the employer to assess these risks before starting.