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Construction Tooling

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Professional Construction & Excavation Tooling

OSHA-Compliant Trenching Equipment, Vacuum Excavation Tools & HDD Support Accessories

Drillworx supplies utility contractors and directional drilling professionals with the complete range of construction tooling and excavation equipment needed for underground utility installation projects. With over 1,670 construction and geo products in stock, including pipe fittings, blades, hammers, drill rods, wipers, wrenches, and components, we carry professional-grade equipment that helps contractors work safely and efficiently while meeting regulatory requirements.

Whether you're exposing existing utilities through potholing, preparing entry and exit pits for HDD projects, or performing traditional open-cut utility installation, the right construction tooling is essential. Our inventory includes hand tools, mechanical excavation equipment, trench safety systems compliant with 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P, and all the accessories needed to complete underground construction projects safely and successfully. We also support damage prevention best practices aligned with Common Ground Alliance (CGA) guidelines.

Construction Tooling We Stock at Drillworx

Geo & Pipe Fittings (1,019 SKUs)
  • • Cam Lock Adapters & Couplers
  • • Foot Valves (6", 8", 10")
  • • Suction/Discharge Hoses
  • • Pipe Nipples & Bushings
  • • Weld-On Tees & Fittings
  • ...plus hundreds more
Blades (57 SKUs)
  • • Vermeer RTX 750/1250 Plow Blades
  • • Chute Blades (various sizes)
  • • Ditch Witch RT70-125 Feed Blades
  • • Pull Plug & Saber Cut Blades
  • • Slitter Blades (Turbo, Jacket)
  • ...and more configurations
Hammers & Drill Rods (298 SKUs)
  • • Hammers (197 SKUs in stock)
  • • Drill Rods (101 SKUs in stock)
  • • Various sizes & thread types
  • • Multiple manufacturer options
  • ...call for complete list
Components, Wipers & Wrenches (298 SKUs)
  • • Hydraulic Components & Seals
  • • Pipe Clamps & Stabilizers
  • • Rod Wipers (48 SKUs)
  • • Wrenches (42 SKUs)
  • • Valves, O-Rings & Adapters
  • ...and much more

Over 1,670 construction and geo products in stock. This is just a sample — call for our complete catalog.

OSHA Trench Safety Requirements (29 CFR 1926 Subpart P)

Trenches present serious cave-in hazards. OSHA's Excavation standard mandates protective measures for trenches 5 feet or deeper, unless excavated entirely in stable rock. A competent person must inspect trenches and choose appropriate protection based on soil conditions.

Sloping & Benching Systems

Soil Classification Required

  • Type A soil: 3/4:1 slope ratio
  • Type B soil: 1:1 slope ratio
  • Type C soil: 1-1/2:1 slope ratio
  • Benching allowed for Types A & B only
  • Competent person soil assessment
  • Daily inspection requirements

Shoring Systems

Active Wall Support

  • Hydraulic aluminum shoring
  • Timber shoring with screw jacks
  • Pneumatic shores and spreaders
  • Install as excavation progresses
  • Rated for soil type and depth
  • Remove in reverse order

Shielding Systems (Trench Boxes)

Worker Protection Zones

  • Steel or aluminum trench shields
  • Protects workers if collapse occurs
  • Workers must stay within shield
  • Can be dragged with excavation
  • Rated for depth and soil conditions
  • Stackable for deep excavations
Critical OSHA Requirements
  • Egress: Ladders or ramps required for trenches over 4 ft deep, within 25 ft lateral travel
  • Spoil Placement: Keep excavated materials at least 2 ft from trench edge
  • Atmospheric Testing: Required if hazardous atmosphere possible
  • Competent Person: Must inspect trenches daily and after weather events
  • Utility Location: Call 811 and verify utility locations before excavation
  • Water Accumulation: Control water hazards with pumps and drainage

Trenching & Excavation Equipment

Essential tools for underground utility construction and OSHA-compliant excavation. We stock over 1,670 construction products — here are some of our most popular categories:

Trenching Hand Tools

  • Trenching shovels and spades
  • Digging bars and pry bars
  • Picks and mattocks
  • Post hole diggers
  • Tamping and compaction tools
  • Durable fiberglass and steel handles
  • Non-conductive utility exposure tools
  • ...and many more — call for availability

Shoring & Trench Safety Equipment

  • Aluminum hydraulic shoring systems
  • Steel trench boxes and shields
  • Timber shoring materials
  • Screw jacks and spreaders
  • Trench ladders (OSHA-compliant)
  • Safety barriers and fencing
  • Competent person inspection tools
  • ...plus additional options in stock

Excavation Support Equipment

  • Dewatering pumps and hoses
  • Soil classification testing kits
  • Slope measuring devices
  • Atmospheric monitoring equipment
  • Emergency rescue equipment
  • Cave-in rescue tripods and winches
  • Communication systems
  • ...and more — ask about our full selection

Vacuum Excavation Technology

Non-destructive excavation methods that significantly reduce the risk of utility strikes compared to mechanical excavation. Choose between hydro and air excavation based on soil conditions and project requirements.

Hydro-Excavation (Water)

Best for dense, compacted, or frozen ground

  • Process: High-pressure water cuts soil into slurry, vacuum removes debris
  • Advantages: Faster in tough soils, highly effective for clay and compacted earth
  • Considerations: Creates wet slurry requiring disposal or processing
  • Effective for frozen ground excavation
  • Water heating systems available for winter work
  • Higher production rates for large projects
  • Requires water supply and slurry disposal plan
Air Excavation (Pneumatic)

Best when dry spoils are needed for backfill

  • Process: High-pressure air fractures and loosens soil, vacuum removes debris
  • Advantages: Dry spoils can be reused as backfill, reducing disposal costs
  • Considerations: Slower in hard clay, may create dust requiring control
  • Ideal around electrical utilities (no water contact)
  • Environmentally preferred for sensitive areas
  • Lower disposal and material costs
  • Gentle process for fragile utility coatings
Vacuum Excavation Best Practices
  • Standoff Distance: Keep nozzle 6-8 inches from utility once near the line; use gentle fan spray to finish
  • Start Small: Begin with smallest practical hole size to minimize restoration
  • Pressure Control: Start with lower pressure and adjust as needed for soil conditions
  • Both methods are non-destructive - no sharp tools contact utilities directly

Potholing & Daylighting Best Practices

Exposing ("daylighting") utilities to verify exact location and depth is essential before any HDD bore or excavation near existing utilities. Follow these CGA-aligned best practices for utility damage prevention.

Step 1: Call 811 & Verify

  • Notify one-call center (811) before work
  • Wait for utility operators to mark lines
  • Verify locates with your own equipment
  • Document all marked utility locations
  • Request re-marks if marks are disturbed
  • Understand tolerance zone requirements

Step 2: Pothole with Vacuum

  • Use vacuum excavation (air or water)
  • Non-destructive within tolerance zone
  • Excavate to planned bore/trench depth
  • Expose utility completely for visual verification
  • Start small - minimize hole size
  • Use insulated hand tools near utility

Step 3: Document & Protect

  • Measure and record utility depth
  • Photograph exposed utilities
  • Note any discrepancies from marks
  • Support exposed utilities as needed
  • Maintain required separation clearances
  • Backfill and compact after verification
Tolerance Zone Requirements

The tolerance zone (typically 18-24 inches from marked utility lines) is where mechanical excavation is prohibited. Within this zone, OSHA requires using hand digging or vacuum excavation to determine exact utility location (29 CFR 1926.651).

Never assume marked lines are perfectly accurate - always expose and visually verify before drilling or trenching near utilities.

Potholing & Daylighting Tools

Vacuum Excavation Accessories

  • Air excavation wands and lances
  • Hydro-excavation nozzles and tips
  • Vacuum hoses and couplings
  • Extension tubes and adapters
  • Debris tank accessories
  • Filter and screen components
  • ...plus many more accessories in stock

Utility Locating Accessories

  • Probe rods and ground penetrators
  • Utility exposure shovels (non-metallic)
  • Cable/pipe locator accessories
  • Marking flags (APWA color-coded)
  • Marking paint and wands
  • Depth measurement tools
  • ...and more — call for availability

Site Documentation Tools

  • Depth gauges and measuring tapes
  • Grade rods and survey equipment
  • Photo documentation equipment
  • GPS marking devices
  • Field notebooks and forms
  • As-built documentation supplies
  • ...plus additional tools available

HDD Entry & Exit Pit Preparation

Proper preparation of entry and exit pits is critical for successful HDD operations. Size pits to accommodate equipment, manage drilling fluid returns, and ensure worker safety with appropriate shoring.

Pit Excavation & Stabilization
  • Size Requirements: Accommodate drill head entry angle, mud suction, and product handling
  • OSHA Compliance: Pits over 5 ft deep require cave-in protection
  • Trench boxes or timber bracing for deep pits
  • Safe side slopes based on soil classification
  • Keep spoil piles 2+ ft from pit edges
  • Install barriers and warning tape around open pits
  • Provide ladder access for personnel entry
  • Test atmosphere if confined space entry required
Drilling Fluid Management
  • Fluid Returns: Entry pit collects drilling fluid and cuttings
  • Submersible trash pumps for fluid removal
  • Transfer to reclaimer or holding tank
  • Monitor fluid levels continuously during drilling
  • Secondary containment (berms, silt fence) for overflow
  • Proper disposal of drilling slurry required
  • Vacuum equipment on standby for frac-out response
  • Inadvertent return contingency plan
Pit Dewatering Equipment
  • Submersible dewatering pumps
  • Trash pumps for solids handling
  • Centrifugal pumps for high volume
  • Discharge hoses and fittings
  • Sump excavation tools
  • Well-point systems for high water table
  • Float switches and automatic controls
  • ...and more — call for our full dewatering lineup
Site Preparation & Restoration
  • Excavation and grading tools
  • Timber mats and ground protection
  • Entry/exit pit construction equipment
  • Backfill and compaction equipment
  • Erosion control materials
  • Pavement patching materials
  • Surface restoration supplies
  • ...plus more site prep accessories

Mud System & Drill Pipe Handling

Drill Pipe Handling
  • Pipe racks and storage stands
  • Drill pipe rollers and supports
  • Lifting slings and chain hoists
  • Pipe thread protectors
  • Pipe cleaning equipment
  • Pipe inspection tools
  • ...plus many more pipe handling accessories
Mud System Accessories
  • Mud mixing tanks and equipment
  • Transfer pumps and hoses
  • Mud screens and filtration
  • Recycling system components
  • Storage tanks and fittings
  • Quick-connect couplers
  • ...and additional components available

Pipe & Product Handling Equipment

HDD swivels, pulling heads, and fusion equipment for safe product installation. Swivels prevent drill rotation from transferring to the product pipe, protecting pipe integrity during pullback.

HDD Swivels & Pullback
  • Function: Prevents rotational torque transfer to product pipe
  • Heavy-duty rotary connectors rated for pull loads
  • Various tonnage ratings available
  • Inspect for smooth operation before use
  • Pulling heads and adapters
  • Load-rated slings and straps
  • Product rollers and supports
  • ...and more — call for full catalog
HDPE Fusion Equipment
  • Butt Fusion: Heat pipe ends and press together under controlled pressure
  • Fusion machines for various pipe sizes
  • Facing tools and heater plates
  • Fusion welding per ASTM F2620
  • Pipe rollers for layout support
  • Squeeze-off tools for PE pipe
  • Joint inspection equipment
  • ...plus additional fusion accessories
Material Handling
  • Forklifts and lifting attachments
  • Skid steer accessories
  • Hoists and come-alongs
  • Rope, chain, and rigging equipment
  • Load securement equipment
  • Pipe trailers and hauling equipment
  • Breakaway links for overstress protection
  • ...and more handling equipment available

Utility Protection & Damage Prevention

Tracer wire, marking tape, and locating accessories ensure newly installed utilities can be accurately located in the future. Follow CGA best practices for utility protection.

Tracer Wire Systems

For non-metallic utilities (HDPE, PVC, fiber)

  • Copper-clad steel wire (strength + conductivity)
  • Direct-burial rated with PE jacket
  • Install along pipe at consistent depth
  • Waterproof splices (silicone gel connectors)
  • Terminate at access points for locate hookup
  • Ground one end with ground rod
  • Test continuity after installation
  • ...and more tracer wire accessories
Underground Warning Tape

APWA/AWWA Color Code System

  • Yellow - Gas, oil, steam, petroleum
  • Red - Electric power lines
  • Orange - Telecommunications, cable
  • Blue - Potable water
  • Green - Sewer and drain lines
  • Install 12-18" above utility line
  • Detectable tape available (metal foil)
Additional Protection
  • Pipe padding and protection wraps
  • Cable shielding materials
  • Split PVC conduit for rocky areas
  • Concrete protective slabs
  • Protective coatings and wraps
  • As-built documentation and surveys
  • Depth markers and locator boxes
  • ...plus more protection products in stock

Safety Equipment & PPE Requirements

OSHA requires employers to provide appropriate PPE wherever hazards exist. Construction and utility crews must utilize PPE to guard against falling objects, sharp edges, chemicals, noise, and more.

Personal Protective Equipment
  • Head: Hard hats (mandatory for overhead hazards)
  • Eyes: Safety glasses with side shields
  • High-Vis: ANSI Class 2/3 vests for traffic exposure
  • Hands: Cut-resistant, chemical, or insulated gloves
  • Feet: Steel/composite toe, puncture-resistant boots
  • Hearing: Ear plugs/muffs for loud equipment
  • ...and more PPE options
Traffic Control (MUTCD)
  • Advance warning signs
  • Traffic cones and channelizers
  • Barricades and barriers
  • Arrow boards for lane closures
  • Flagger equipment (STOP/SLOW paddles)
  • Reflective tape for night work
  • Traffic Control Plan required
  • ...and more traffic control gear
Confined Space Entry
  • Atmospheric Testing: O2, LEL, H2S, CO
  • Calibrated 4-gas monitors
  • Ventilation fans and ducting
  • Full-body harness and lifeline
  • Rescue tripod and winch
  • Attendant stationed topside
  • Permit-required entry procedures
  • ...and more confined space gear
Site Monitoring & Emergency
  • Multi-gas detection equipment
  • Air quality monitors
  • Two-way radios
  • First aid kits and AED
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Spill containment kits
  • Emergency eyewash stations
  • ...and more safety equipment
Daily Safety Requirements
  • Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Determine required PPE for each task
  • Daily Toolbox Talk: Review day's tasks and hazards
  • Competent Person Inspection: Trenches inspected daily and after rain/vibration
  • Atmospheric Testing: Before entry into trenches over 4 ft where hazards may exist
  • Emergency Response Plan: Know hospital location, 911 access, trained first aiders
  • Equipment Safety: Daily inspection of tools, GFCI protection on cords

Featured: Boss Vac Vacuum Excavation Trailer Systems

For the ultimate in utility-safe excavation, explore our Boss Vac vacuum excavation trailer systems. These compact, trailer-mounted systems provide the core benefits of vacuum excavation for utility locating, potholing, and HDD mud cleanup - without the cost of a full-size vacuum truck.

Compact & Maneuverable

Fits in urban streets and tight access areas. Tow-behind, gooseneck, or skid-mount configurations available.

Dual-Engine Power

Separate engines for water pump and vacuum system ensure optimal performance. No lag when switching operations.

Hydro & Air Capable

500-800 gallon debris tanks. Both wet and dry excavation modes for versatile job site applications.

Industry Standards & Regulatory References

OSHA Regulations
  • 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P: Excavation Safety Standards
  • 29 CFR 1926.651: Specific Excavation Requirements
  • 29 CFR 1926.652: Protective Systems Requirements
  • 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA: Confined Space in Construction
  • 29 CFR 1926 Subpart G: Signs, Signals, and Barricades
Industry Standards
  • CGA Best Practices: Common Ground Alliance Guidelines
  • MUTCD: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • APWA/AWWA: Utility Color Code Standards
  • ASTM F2620: HDPE Butt Fusion Standards
  • NULCA: Utility Locating Contractor Standards

Why Contractors Choose Drillworx for Construction Tooling

OSHA-Compliant Equipment

Shoring, shielding, and safety equipment that meets regulatory requirements

1,670+ Products in Stock

From pipe fittings and blades to hammers, drill rods, wipers, and wrenches — we stock it all

Technical Expertise

Staff knowledgeable in HDD, trenching, and utility damage prevention best practices

Regional Availability

Multiple locations for quick equipment access across the Midwest

Get the Construction Tools You Need

Talk to our construction equipment specialists about your project requirements. With over 1,670 construction products in stock — including geo fittings, blades, hammers, drill rods, components, wipers, and wrenches — we have the equipment to help you work safely and efficiently. The products listed on this page are just a sample. Call for our complete catalog.

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