Trench digging is essential to many construction projects. However, they can be one of the most dangerous construction elements if not properly supported. This form of support is called “shoring” and is designed to stop the trench from collapsing and create a safe workspace for builders.
There are various kinds of equipment that are used for this technique and you must use at least one for every trench you dig. Here, we are going to discuss the different options at your disposal and why you need them for your project:
You have various options at your disposal
There are numerous types of top quality shoring equipment at your disposal. What you choose to use depends on the trench’s depth, size and purpose. For example, you may choose to use the hydraulic method, which utilises pistons to manage heavy steel plates or plywood in position. The pistons are then positioned behind them and used to press the plate or board against the trench’s side and maintain its sturdiness.
You can also use the beam and plate method where you will use steel beams and drive them into the trench’s floor. Once they have been driven into the floor you will then use steel plates and slide them down in front of the beams. You can use either steel or wooden plates but either way they are supported by the beams and create a temporary support.
Shoring v shielding: what’s the difference?
Trench shoring and shielding are very different things that require different equipment to perform. Trench shielding is a method enlisted to keep diggers safe if the trench were to unfortunately collapse. They are shields that comprise sidewalls supported by aluminium spreaders or steel. It’s for this more reactionary reason that shoring is viewed as a much safer method than shielding.
The technique’s benefits
This technique provides a number of benefits that make it safer for builders to dig trenches at construction site and support them throughout the project:
They make it safer for builders
The main (and most obvious) benefit behind this technique is to make it safer for builders. Trenches are susceptible to collapse and this can potentially trap builders within them. The last place a builder wants to be is near a collapsing trench and this is why this imperative technique is utilised.
It saves time for builders
Even if a trench were to collapse without any injuries it would still be cause for massive concern. Not only would it raise ample safety questions but it would also require redigging. Digging trenches can take a very long time and this is why it’s important to ensure they are safely supported in the first place.
They provide financial security
Workplace accidents – and especially those on building sites – happen every day in Australia. When they are really serious, and the construction firm is likely at fault, they can lead to significant payouts to the injured worker. Not only this, the last thing a construction firm should want is to put their valued employees at risk. Therefore, proper safety methods such as these are required to ensure that your team is safe and that you are not liable to big payouts to injured workers.
Your workers feel safe
A dangerous workplace is one with uneasy builders. When workers feel unsafe they are not able to do the job properly and are susceptible to making even more dangerous mistakes. Therefore, this method will help ensure that your team is safe and feels more relaxed about their environment!
