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Lifting & Installation Procedure – Trench Box

  • Inspect components and lifting gear
    – Check trench box panels, spreaders, and pins for damage, distortion, or excessive wear.
    – Inspect lifting chains, shackles, and lifting eyes for valid certification and visible defects.

  • Attach lifting accessories correctly
    – Use certified 4-leg chain sling connected to designated lifting eyes.
    – Back-hook any unused chain legs to the master ring.
    – If using a single-point lift bar, ensure it's correctly rated and secured.

  • Test lift before positioning
    – Raise the box slightly to check balance and tension across all lifting points.
    – Adjust sling length or leg positions if box tilts or shifts.

  • Lower into excavation with control
    – Use tag lines to control movement and prevent swinging.
    – Lower the box steadily and vertically into the excavation.
    – Ensure operatives are clear of the exclusion zone.

  • Install safely
    – Confirm the box is seated level at the required depth.
    – Add or adjust spreaders as needed for trench width.
    – Install additional boxes or panels following stacking guidelines and secure with locking pins.

Safety Tips & Best Practices

  • Inspect all lifting gear and components before every use – do not use damaged or uncertified items.

  • Use only trained and authorised personnel for slinging and signal operations.

  • Establish an exclusion zone around the lifting area – no personnel inside the trench during installation.

  • Control movement with tag lines to prevent uncontrolled swing or spin.

  • Keep all chain legs within correct angles (<90° included angle) to avoid overloading.

  • Ensure locking pins and spreaders are fully secured before lifting or working near the box.

  • Lower slowly and steadily – avoid sudden movements or collisions with trench walls.

  • Stack only as per guidance and never exceed recommended heights.

  • Use fall protection or barriers around open trench edges during the operation.

  • Communicate clearly between the lifting team, banksman, and machine operator at all times.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This procedure is provided for general guidance only.
All lifting and installation activities must follow the project-specific Lift Plan, risk assessment, and method statement.
Trench boxes, spreaders, and all lifting accessories must be inspected and confirmed suitable and compatible prior to use.
Only trained, authorised, and competent personnel may perform these operations.
All works must be carried out in full compliance with LOLER, PUWER, CDM Regulations, and relevant UK construction standards.
Note: The video included on this page is a publicly available demonstration provided by MGF. It is used for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute endorsement or instruction by Construct-tech Solutions.

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