Shoring is vital for maintaining the integrity and safety of excavation and construction sites. Correctly identifying when a job requires shoring will keep your workers safe and ensure compliance with safety standards. Here are some everyday situations when shoring is necessary:
Excavations Over a Certain Depth
At what depth is shoring required? Workplace Health & Safety in Australia states that any trench with an excavated depth greater than 1.5 metres is classified as high-risk construction work. At this depth, support methods such as shoring are essential. As the depth of the trench increases, the risk of soil instability also rises, making shoring an indispensable safety measure.
Unstable or Loose Soil Conditions
Soil conditions can vary from one site to another. When your work site is on soil that’s particularly loose, sandy, or prone to shifting, shoring becomes crucial. Unstable soil increases the risk of trench collapses, posing significant hazards to workers and equipment. Aluminium trench shields and lightweight shoring systems provide the necessary support to keep your excavation or project site stable and secure.
Proximity to Existing Structures or Roads
When excavation work is carried out near existing buildings, roads, and other structures, the potential for damage increases. Shoring solutions like trench shields, Slide Rail Shoring, & Soldier Sets protect workers from cave-ins and collapses
Deep Trenching for Utilities or Foundation Work
When is shoring required in construction? Projects that involve deep trenching for utilities or foundation work often require shoring. These trenches need to stay open for extended periods, and the deeper they go, the greater the pressure on the trench walls. Shoring provides a reliable solution to maintain the integrity of these sites.
Regulatory Requirements and Standards
To maintain a safe work environment, it’s crucial to adhere to these regulations and standards:
Workplace Health & Safety (WHS)
In Australia, trenching and excavation safety is regulated by the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations, which set stringent standards to protect workers. These regulations require protective systems, such as shoring and trench shields, to prevent collapses and maintain a safe work environment.
Adhering to WHS guidelines is crucial to safeguard workers from the inherent risks of trenching and excavation, particularly in unstable soil conditions or when working at significant depths. The regulations mandate that trenches be adequately supported to ensure safety on site.
Local Building Codes
Each state and territory in Australia has specific building codes and construction safety standards that outline excavation safety requirements. These codes are designed to protect workers, the excavation or construction site, and the surrounding environment.
Complying with these regulations is not just about following the law but also about promoting safety and efficiency. By following the safety measures, construction companies create safer work environments and promote a culture of safety.
Prioritise safety by staying informed about the relevant regulations and using proper shoring systems in your projects. Ensure safety and stability with our shoring equipment. Contact us to hire our trenching solutions today.