Back actor
A back actor (backactor or sometimes backacter) is a type of earth moving plant used on construction sites to place and transport excavated soil. It is sometimes referred to as a backhoe, backhoe loader or rear actor, and may also be informally referred to as a JCB. This abbreviation comes from the initials of Joseph Cyril Bamford, the founder of the Joseph Cyril Bamford Excavators Ltd. company. Other brands exist.
Back actors are fitted with a shovel (or dipper) for digging. This shovel is fixed to the back of the tractor by way of a two-part digging arm referred to as a boom and bucket arm or a dipper arm. This mechanism allows the dipper to move with a great deal of flexibility.
Backactors can be fitted with different attachments for tasks such as boring, digging, excavation and loading. They can also be used for minor demolition, powering building equipment, breaking asphalt and transporting light building materials.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.