Manual Soldiers
Ideal for Confined Spaces
This lightweight manual soldier is specifically designed for small contractors, such as drain layers, who may not always have access to heavy machinery on-site. Weighing only 38kg per 2.4m set including struts, its manageable size allows for easy handling without the need for a digger, making it ideal for confined spaces and quick setups.Compact Dimensions
With dimensions of 0.2m in width and ranging from 1.8m to 3.0m in height, these soldiers are well-suited for deployment in narrow trenches, maximising safety while minimising spatial footprint.Safety Compliance
Rated for depths up to 3.0m and a pressure rating of 20 kPa, it meets stringent safety standards, helping crews work with confidence on site.Adjustable Strut Sizes
The adjustable strut sizes from 0.4 to 2.4m, with over 4 different strut options. This flexibility allows customisation based on specific trench requirements, enhancing versatility on various projects.Manual Soldier Range
Manual Soldier Accessories
Vertical Shores (Hydraulic Soldier)
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Lightweight & Robust
- Particularly advantageous in scenarios involving existing utilities. Its aluminium construction ensures ease of handling without compromising strength, allowing for quick installation and removal by a minimal crew.
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Hydraulic Pump
- Keeps your trench support system pressurised, ensuring maximum stability in high-risk excavations. No power? No problem. The manual operation means you can keep working even in remote locations.
Vertical Shores (Hydraulic Soldier) Range
Vertical Shores (Hydraulic Soldier) Accessories
All Soldiers
Applications for all Soldiers
Small trenches, working around services, solo operator or small crew work, drainage installation, plumbing work, utility installations with multiple service crossings.Protection in Action
Product Videos
- Video to answer the most commonly asked questions about soldier sets
- How why you should inspect trench shields
Become a Trench Shield Expert
Customer Success Stories
Certified to International Standards
Meeting Australian Standards; AS 5047:2005, Hydraulic shoring and trench lining equipment and AS/NZS 1664.1: 1997for Aluminium Structures.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.