A contractor was performing a stormwater infrastructure upgrade tying drainage into an existing manhole.  The project would require a 16-ft long, 12-ft wide, and 14-ft deep excavation in a sand and clay mixture that the Competent Person had classified as a Type-C soil.

The project occurred on a site that was adjacent to a roadway, as well as a large warehouse on the opposing side of the excavation. The site also had utilities present that would cross the excavation. The contractor contacted NTS to discuss shoring options for the project.  After reviewing a few options to shore the area, the contractor elected to use a steel sheeting guide frame system.

The steel sheeting guide frame system would provide proactive soil support through excavation as the guide frame is placed at the top of the excavation and then steel sheets are inserted through the frames to the depth of the excavation.  The placement of the sheets also allows for flexible placement to accommodate crossing utilities as was present in this project. The contractor was extremely satisfied with the system and its ability to meet the needs of the project. The system provided the necessary free-span excavation while addressing the site surroundings.