The Contractor shall: A. Provide trench shielding equipment, including but not limited to Steel Trench Shields, Aluminum Trench Shields, and Manhole Shields, to support safe excavation activities for Austin Water personnel. The trench shielding systems shall meet or exceed OSHA safety standards (29 CFR 1926 Subpart P – Excavations) and be suitable for a range of soil conditions and trench depths encountered in utility operations. 1. Steel Trench Shields shall be engineered for heavy-duty applications and capable of withstanding high-pressure soil forces in deep or challenging excavations. They shall be modular, stackable, and available in a variety of standard sizes to accommodate varying trench dimensions. They shall include spreader bars, lifting lugs, and corner posts rated for secure handling and installation with heavy equipment. 2. Aluminum Trench Shields shall be lightweight and portable, designed for rapid deployment and easy installation in smaller or more constrained work zones. These shields shall be suitable for shallow to moderate trench depths and include features such as telescoping spreaders, modular panel systems, and hand-carry options to facilitate use in areas with limited access or minimal equipment. 3. Manhole Shields shall be specifically designed to protect vertical excavations during manhole installation or repair. Units shall include adjustable panels or modular box configurations that provide 360-degree protection while allowing sufficient access for workers and equipment. Design shall allow for placement over existing manholes or for use during new installations...
