What is the purpose of trench shoring or shielding?

• A. To protect workers from trench collapse and provide safe work space.
• B. To waterproof the trench.
• C. To speed up excavation.
• D. To increase soil stability for long term.

Answer: (A)

Trench shoring or shielding exists to keep workers safe from cave-ins and to give them a stable, safe place to work inside the excavation. Shoring uses structural supports to hold the trench walls in place, while shielding (often trench boxes) acts as a barrier to prevent soil from falling onto workers. These systems address the immediate danger of earth movement and provide a defined space where tasks can be performed, with safer access and egress. They’re not primarily for waterproofing, speeding up digging, or long-term soil stability; their purpose is temporary protection of workers throughout the excavation work.