FAQs about manhole boxes / shields
United Rentals offers manhole boxes for rent, made to ensure your workers can perform effectively and safely. Manhole boxes offer necessary protection for jobs like sewer pipe or manhole installation, repairs, tie-ins and more. Choose between lightweight boxes for shallow trenches and larger manhole braces for deeper pits. Manhole braces are made to support the walls of a manhole or trench and can be used to shore square, rectangular or linear trench line excavations. Have peace of mind on-site with this complete manhole tester made to test the safety and stability of your manhole by creating a vacuum. Our manhole box rentals are rated for deeper jobs and are available in single-walled or double-walled models to help keep your crew both productive and safe. Learn more about manhole boxes in our FAQ section below.
Not to be confused with manhole boxes or manhole shields, manhole braces work with hydraulic shoring systems. Combining the benefits of aluminum hydraulic shoring with the ruggedness of steel box tubing, excavation braces are specifically designed for shoring square and rectangular excavations.
Manhole shields help protect workers and maintain a safe working environment. They are designed to be used in various configurations and height options to protect workers in certain types of trench work, like pipework or junction box installations. Contact our trench safety experts for additional support.
To use a manhole box, you must first assemble the shield above ground. Once the manhole box is built, use heavy-rated lifting machinery to place the box inside the trench area and push down until there is a snug fit. Begin to excavate any remaining undesired material to reach the complete depth of your trench, being careful not to damage the integrity of your shield or collide with any overhead powerlines.