How to Use a Shovel

Hi,

I’m Joey Noeldner. I’m a Lake Area student enrolled in the Heavy Equipment Program. The funny thing is, I’m not very good at running equipment. However, I happen to be the world’s best shovel operator. Today I’ll be demonstrating how to properly and safely run one of the world’s oldest dirt moving machines. I understand how one might think shoveling seems like a waste of time, or they might think it is too primitive. People don’t understand why they couldn’t use a larger piece of equipment to speed up the process. It’s really simple, it’s hard to beat the accuracy of a shovel; shovels can be used to get projects within mere centimeters of tolerance. Not only that, our world was built on shovels and the skills of the men who shoveled. From the transcontinental railroad, to the Brooklyn bridge, to the trenches on the Western Front. Our world wouldn’t be what it is without the work of the shovel.

Step 1: Getting the Right Shovel

Before we get started, we’ll want to grab our perfect shovel. There are dozens of shovel options available on todays market, and it can be stressful when faced with getting a first. When looking at shovels we’ll want to keep in mind blade shape, size and weight, as well as its intended use. With these important factors we can begin to pick our shovel. Today we’re going to be digging a hole, so the typical flat shovels, snow shovels, and post hole diggers won’t cut it on todays project. You’ll want a round digger shovel to make quick work of this hole.

Step 2: Parts of the Shovel

After we grab our shovel, we’ll go over part familiarization. From top to bottom most shovels will have a grip, shaft, collar, step, blade, and tip. All of these will come together in order for us to dig our awesome hole. Inspect the shovel to make sure the grip and shaft are free of cracks, splinters, or bowing. Be sure your collar is firmly attached to the shaft. Finally, be sure your blade is free of debris, and that your tip is in good working condition.

Step 3: Edging the Hole

Now that we’ve obtained our shovel and ensured that it is in good working order we can begin to dig our hole. Start by edging around the area you’d like to dig out. For today’s demonstration we’ll be digging a small 2X2 square hole.

Step 4: Digging the Hole

Work the blade into the ground by stepping onto the step and forcing the shovel down. Pry back on the shaft to leverage up a piece of earth. Pull the shovel’s blade out from the soil and move the tip over the width of the blade. Continue the process around your hole’s perimeter, removing earth from the hole as you go around, until the desired depth has been reached.

Step 5: All Done!

Congratulations, you’ve just dug a hole!