A trench shoring kit is a set of modular steel or aluminium panels and hydraulic struts that are lowered into a trench to support the ground and prevent collapse during excavation. Shoring is required for all trenches deeper than 1.2 metres under HSE guidance, and in granular or saturated ground at lesser depths. The kit is selected to match trench depth, width, soil type and water conditions, with components inspected before and after use under PUWER 1998 and LOLER 1998. Operators must be trained to install, use and remove the shoring safely. In London, additional planning is needed where works are close to party walls, listed buildings, mature trees with TPOs and other utilities, and a CDM 2015 construction phase plan must address these risks.
Trench shoring kit
Modular boxes or panels installed in a trench to prevent ground collapse.
