When filling in a trench, is it advisable to use the side of backhoe buckets in the operation?

When filling in a trench, it is advisable not to use the side of backhoe buckets during the operation because doing so can lead to several issues. The sides of the buckets are not designed for compacting material effectively; instead, they may disturb the fill material and cause it to become uneven or poorly compacted.

Using the sides of the buckets can also increase the risk of creating voids or air pockets, which can lead to settling or instability in the filled trench. Proper compaction is essential to ensure the stability of the fill and avoid future issues such as subsidence or structural failure.

The appropriate technique for filling a trench is to use the back of the bucket to place the material and then follow up with proper compaction methods, such as using a mechanical compactor or another technique designed specifically for that purpose. This ensures that the fill is compacted uniformly and securely, providing a stable base.