Lightweight Shields. Heavy-Duty Protection
Guardian aluminium trench shields are designed for New Zealand ground conditions and the realities of civil sites. We help you choose the right setup so your crew can work safely and stay compliant.Protection in Action
Suitable for Small 1.6 Tonne Machines
Designed to be as light as possible while having maximum strength, so you can use a small 2-tonne or even a 1.6-tonne digger. This results in less cost for machine hire, fuel, and running costs. Ideal for small to medium projects and one of the most widely used shields on New Zealand civil sites.Stackable for Versatility
The stackable feature enables customisation of trench depth from 1.2m up to 3.6m (when stacked 3 shields high) in stable soil conditions. This adaptability is particularly useful in projects with varying excavation requirements.Inbuilt Lifting Points for Safety
Equipped with inbuilt lifting points, ensuring secure handling during installation and removal. This design minimises the risk of accidents, promoting a safer work environment.Customisable
This small trench shield can be configured into 5+ different set-ups depending on your trench protection needs, making it a very versatile option for a small to medium urban site. The struts width is also customisable making it easy to have the right size shield to suit the job.Five Different Ways to Set Up Standard Shields
Our Range
| Product Code | Panel Length | Panel Height | Weight Per Set | kPa Rating | Under Strut Clearance | Panel Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2301 | 2.4m | 1.2m | 140kg | 20-50kPa | 0.29m | 56mm |
Applications
Utility installations, drainage projects, pipeline work, sites with space restrictions, civil construction excavations, and public maintenance.Product Videos
- Have questions about guardian 2301 trench shield watch this FAQ video
- Learn how easy it is to make up a 2301 lightweight aluminum trench shields
- How why you should inspect trench shields
Become a Trench Shield Expert
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- Trench configuration – the right solutions keep people safe
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- Different Ways To Make Trenches Safe!
Customer Success Stories
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.
Standard 2301 Shield Accessories
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
Multiple strut points mean you’re not locked into one position when services are in the way. Detachable 600mm legs keep shields off the trench bottom when pipes or cables run underneath. Adjustable struts (0.6m-3.5m) 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.