Lightweight Shields. Robust Protection
Our large trench shields are engineered to offer substantial length without excessive weight, making them easier to transport, install and reposition on site.
Protection in Action
Lightweight Design
Made from high-grade aluminium, these shields are lighter than steel alternatives, which makes them easier to transport and assemble. This is especially important for projects with weight restrictions, allowing smaller, more cost-effective machines to move the shields, reducing fuel and machine hire costs.
High Load Rating
These shields are designed to be lightweight while maintaining a higher kPa rating than many shields of similar size. They provide robust protection against soil pressure, helping protect workers in the trench in different soil conditions and keeping your site compliant.
Extended Length
Ideal for longer trenching projects, reducing the need for frequent repositioning and helping crews work faster while maintaining continuous trench protection.
Adjustable Strut Sizes
Offers versatility to match different trench widths, allowing you to save money by using the same shield in multiple different-width trenches.
Under Strut Clearance
Facilitates unobstructed access for personnel and equipment like pipes, streamlining operations within the trench and allowing you to lay different diameter pipes while also protecting your team. Standard strut clearance is 1.3m and we have specific struts to suit even higher strut clearance.
Large Shield Range
Product Code Panel Length Panel Height Panel Thickness Weight Per Set kPa Rating Under Strut Clearance
2375 3.6m 2.4m 90mm 980kg 43kPa 1.35m
2376 3.6m 1.05m 90mm 510kg 43kPa 0.47m
2395 5.0m 2.4m 150mm 1630kg 55kPa 1.35m
2396 5.0m 1.5m 150mm 1200kg 55kPa 0.55m
2398 7.2m 2.4m 150mm 2150kg 36kPa 1.35m
2399 7.2m 1.5m 150mm 1800kg 36kPa 0.55m
Applications
Utility installations, drainage projects, pipeline work, sites with space restrictions, civil construction excavations, and public maintenance.
Product Videos
  1. This video answers the most common FAQs about large aluminium trench shields
  2. Watch How to make a large aluminium trench shield video
  3. How why you should inspect trench shields
Become a Trench Shield Expert
Certified to International Standards
This trench box meets British and European Standards BS EN 13331.1 and 13331.2, Australian and New Zealand Standard AS 4744.1-2000, and United States Standard OSHA Sub Part P. These certifications attest to its quality and reliability, ensuring compliance with safety regulations across various regions.
Large Shield Accessories
Rigid Strut
Rigid Strut Product Code Dimensions Weight
2332 0.6m 23.4kg
2333 0.8m 28.4kg
2334 1.0m 33.4kg
2335 1.2m 38.4kg
2337 1.5m 45.9kg
2338 1.8m 53.4kg
2339 2.0m 58.4kg
2340 2.4m 68.4kg
2341 3.0m 83.4kg
2383 3.5m 107.1kg
Adjustable Strut
Adjustable Strut Product Code Dimensions Weight
2342-XS 0.6m to 0.8m 30.6kg
2342-S 0.8m to 1.2m 38kg
2342-M 1.2m to 2.0m 59.6kg
2342-L 1.4m to 2.4m 68.2kg
High Rise Strut Set
High Rise Strut Set (Struts Additional)
Product Code: 2379 & 2355
Weight: 371kg per set
Description: 2355 is the strut that joins the 2379 high-rise struts together
Vertical Extension Joiner
Vertical Extension Joiner
Product Code: 2345
Weight: 7kg
Manhole Corner Bracket
Manhole Corner Bracket
Product Code: 2344
Weight: 21.5kg
Zinc Plated R Clip
Zinc Plated 'R' Clip
Product Code: 3559
Dimensions: 5mm
Hardened Pin and Clip
Hardened Pin & Clip
Product Code: 2346 & 2347
Dimensions: 185mm x 20mm (2346) & 130mm x 25mm (2347)

Note: 2346 is for fixing struts to the shields while 2347 is for locking pin for the adjustable struts.

Why choose Guardian trench shields?

Lightweight without compromise

Complete shield setup. Small excavators can lift and position shields using inbuilt lifting points. This cuts machinery costs and makes shields accessible for restricted sites.

Built for New Zealand conditions

Aluminium doesn’t rust. In wet, muddy trench work, that longevity matters. Our shields handle New Zealand’s diverse soil types — from sandy coastal ground to heavy clay — without the corrosion issues affecting steel alternatives.

Flexible for real work

Most shields have multiple strut points, meaning you’re not locked into one position when services are in the way. We have many different-sized struts, including adjustable struts to accommodate different trench widths.

Fast to deploy and move

Shields can be assembled or dismantled in minutes. Move quickly around busy sites or transport between jobs without specialised equipment.

Compliance and certification

Every Guardian shield meets or exceeds at least one of the following standards:

  • New Zealand: AS 4744.1-2000
  • Australia: AS 4744.1-2000
  • United States: OSHA Sub Part P
  • Britain & Europe: BS EN 13331.1 and 13331.2

Each shield carries an identification plate showing standards compliance. Certifications and Safe Use Manuals provided to support Health & Safety requirements and WorkSafe inspections. Reference guides on every shield show safe strut positioning.

Technical support

We understand site pressures. Projects run tight, ground conditions change, and you’re responsible for getting people home safe. We provide:

  • On-site product demonstrations
  • Crew training on proper installation and use
  • Technical compliance advice
  • Documentation for WorkSafe requirements
  • Custom sizing for non-standard requirements

What do you need?

Whether you’re looking for a specific solution or an ongoing safety partner, we’re ready to talk.