Pit & Quarry University

The Pit & Quarry University Handbook consists of comprehensive lessons detailing the aggregate production process from start to finish.

It is used by aggregate producers across North America to help with onboarding and new-employee initiation, as well as anyone with an interest in learning what goes on at a crushed-stone or sand-and-gravel operation. Pit & Quarry University lessons are based on the Pit & Quarry Handbook, a resource guide first published in 1907 and updated throughout the years.

Learn more about the history of the P&Q Handbook and P&Q University

Thank you to Kleemann for their continued support and sponsorship.

Latest Edition – 2025

The 2025 Edition of the P&Q University Handbook will feature thorough updates, newer technologies, and enhanced procedures within each branch/category of the aggregates industry. An excerpt from the handbook will be released each month as a preview of what’s to come, with the full handbook launching at the end of the year.

Jan. Preview – Conveying & Material Handling

Feb. Preview – Screening (Parts 1 & 2)

Mar. Preview – Safety

April Preview – Washing & Classifying

May Preview – TBA

June Preview – TBA

July Preview – TBA

Aug. Preview – TBA

Sept. Preview – TBA

Oct. Preview – TBA

Nov. / Dec. – Full Handbook Released

Previous Edition

The previous edition is available online in full, each lesson linked below. It remains a treasure trove of foundational knowledge and documentation. Once the latest edition is fully released, it will further provide side-by-side analysis of evolving practices in the aggregates sector, as well as context for both changing and constant construction needs.

Lesson 1 – Industry Overview

Lesson 2 – Site Selection & Plant Design

Lesson 3 – Geology

Lesson 4 – Drilling & Blasting

Lesson 5 – Loading, Excavating & Dredging

Lesson 6 – Off-Road Hauling

Lesson 7 – Crushing & Secondary Breaking

Lesson 8 – Screening

Lesson 9 – Washing & Classifying

Lesson 10 – Conveying & Material Handling

Lesson 11 – Loadout, Weighing & On-Road Hauling

Lesson 12 – Maintenance & Optimization