Manhole boxes are specially designed structures that enable the construction of manhole chambers. These boxes are often used along continuous trench runs to provide additional trench width at manhole locations, ensuring that chambers can be easily constructed without causing unnecessary disruptions to surrounding areas. Manhole shoring boxes are available in specific sizes to match common ring sizes, which minimizes construction waste and helps streamline the building process.

    One of the key benefits of using a manhole box is their ease of assembly and installation. These boxes can be quickly assembled with the help of appropriate machinery and without the need for an operative to enter the unsupported excavation. This not only reduces the risk of accidents or injuries, but also makes the process of constructing manhole chambers much faster and more efficient.

    It is important to note that the boxes are heavy and should be handled with great care. Those responsible for lifting and handling these boxes must carefully consider the weight of the box and the capability of the lifting equipment used. It is strongly recommended that the boxes are always used with an integral Edgesafe and Laddersafe barrier and access system to ensure the safety of those working on the site. 

    To find out more about our manhole box hire, please contact us

Type 2.5m Box 3.0m Box 3.5m Box 4.0m Box 4.5m Box 5.0m Box
Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top
To suit ring size (m) 1.05 | 1.2 | 1.35 1.35 | 1.5 | 1.8 1.8 | 2.1 2.1 |2.4 | 2.7 2.7 | 3 2.7 | 3 | 3.66
Plate Length (m) 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0
Plate height (m) 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5
Plate thickness (mm) 107 107 107 107 107 127
Overall trench width (m) 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 4.6 2.6 - 5.6
Weight (kg)* 2335 1613 2660 1815 2987 2018 3312 2220 3991 2615 4967 3359
Distance between struts 2.13 2.63 3.13 3.63 4.02 4.55
Strut Clearance Height (m) 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.4 N/A 1.4 N/A

FAQs

What is a Manhole Box?

Designed to hold back the earth within an excavation to facilitate the installation of precast concrete manhole rings. Our boxes, as standard, are square in shape providing a large clear opening, but narrower and wider options are also available. 

How does a Manhole Box work?

A manhole box works similarly to a trench box by supporting the ground, however they are square in shape to facilitate the installation of precast concrete manhole rings and are seen as an alternative to a sheeted excavation.


Can a Manhole Box be re-used?

Manhole boxes can be re-used just like any other excavation support equipment. It can be uninstalled and taken to the next manhole.


What safety precautions should be taken when using a Manhole Box?

Prior to installing a manhole box, the user must familiarise themselves with the equipment's installation guide. Additionally, as with the installation of all temporary works equipment, a site specific risk assessment should be carried out.

How to choose the right Manhole box for a project?

We have many tools to help you decide which Manhole Box is the right one for you. Contact one of our sales representatives today or use our design tool, YourSolution.


Trench Boxes: Typical Installation Methodology

This quick and easy method ensures ground stability within a trench and helps minimise the excavation area to avoid damage to neighbouring structures and utilities in the ground. This methodology is best suited for trench boxes with shorter struts, if you use a trench box with long struts then other methods may be more suited, if you have any questions on different methods you can use contact our technical department.

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