No one doubts the dangers involved in excavating. Each job presents a challenge to those working on them. Whether they are working on repairing utility lines or installing pipes, workers need to be able to operate in a safe workspace. To address these concerns, companies choose to install trench boxes. While sturdy steel ones are common, so, too, is the durable and reliable aluminum trench box.
What Are Trench Boxes?
As the name implies, a trench box is a box-like device suitable for using in a trench. These structures are also known as trench shield or trench sheets. They provide protection against possible cave-ins, and the space workers need to perform their tasks.
Trench boxes – whether of aluminum or steel, consist of side walls but no top or bottom. These walls vary in thickness. Spreaders keep them in place and apart. As excavation jobs differ, often substantially, from each other, it is important to consider various factors when selecting a trench box.
Among the characteristics under consideration are:
• Depth: How deep is the intended excavation? This determines how high the box walls need to be and whether stacking is requisite.
• Soil Type: What type of soil is under excavation?
• Length and width: Carefully measure the total length and width of material needed to ensure both worker safety and job efficiency. Avoid making the box too long or too short. By making it too short, the workers may not have enough space to do their job.
Aluminum Trench Box
When excavating is part of the job, consider whether worker safety requires a trench box. Before choosing an aluminum trench box, examine the site closely. Before installing, make sure it meets both the requirements of the site as well as OSHA compliance regulations. By taking care to closely guard the safety of all workers on site, you are ensuring every man and woman goes back home intact at the end of the day.