Type 2.5m Box 3.0m Box 3.5m Box 4.0m Box 4.5m Box 5.0m Box
Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top Base Top
To suit ring size (m) 1.05 | 1.2 | 1.35 1.35 | 1.5 | 1.8 1.8 | 2.1 2.1 |2.4 | 2.7 2.7 | 3 2.7 | 3 | 3.66
Plate Length (m) 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0
Plate height (m) 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5 2.5 1.5
Plate thickness (mm) 107 107 107 107 107 127
Overall trench width (m) 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 5.3 1.6 - 4.6 2.6 - 5.6
Weight (kg)* 2335 1613 2660 1815 2987 2018 3312 2220 3991 2615 4967 3359
Distance between struts 2.13 2.63 3.13 3.63 4.02 4.55
Strut Clearance Height (m) 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.5 N/A 1.4 N/A 1.4 N/A

    Manhole boxes are specially designed structures that enable the construction of manhole chambers. These boxes are often used along continuous trench runs to provide additional trench width at manhole locations, ensuring that chambers can be easily constructed without causing unnecessary disruptions to surrounding areas. Manhole shoring boxes are available in specific sizes to match common ring sizes, which minimizes construction waste and helps streamline the building process.

    One of the key benefits of using a manhole box is their ease of assembly and installation. These boxes can be quickly assembled with the help of appropriate machinery and without the need for an operative to enter the unsupported excavation. This not only reduces the risk of accidents or injuries, but also makes the process of constructing manhole chambers much faster and more efficient.

    It is important to note that the boxes are heavy and should be handled with great care. Those responsible for lifting and handling these boxes must carefully consider the weight of the box and the capability of the lifting equipment used. It is strongly recommended that the boxes are always used with an integral Edgesafe and Laddersafe barrier and access system to ensure the safety of those working on the site. 

    To find out more about our manhole box hire, please contact us. 

FAQs

What is a Manhole Box?

Designed to hold back the earth within an excavation to facilitate the installation of precast concrete manhole rings. Our boxes, as standard, are square in shape providing a large clear opening, but narrower and wider options are also available. 

How does a Manhole Box work?

A manhole box works similarly to a trench box by supporting the ground, however they are square in shape to facilitate the installation of precast concrete manhole rings and are seen as an alternative to a sheeted excavation.


Can a Manhole Box be re-used?

Manhole boxes can be re-used just like any other excavation support equipment. It can be uninstalled and taken to the next manhole.


What safety precautions should be taken when using a Manhole Box?

Prior to installing a manhole box, the user must familiarise themselves with the equipment's installation guide. Additionally, as with the installation of all temporary works equipment, a site specific risk assessment should be carried out.

How to choose the right Manhole box for a project?

We have many tools to help you decide which Manhole Box is the right one for you. Contact one of our sales representatives today or use our design tool, YourSolution.


What are Manhole Boxes used for?

Manhole Boxes are generally the first choice when installing pre-cast manhole rings in trench runs as an alternative to using sheets and frames.


How many different Manhole Box sizes are available?

Groundforce offer six Manhole Box sizes using incremental and fully adjustable strut types: The “Multi-Box” type of strut is a heavy duty incrementally adjustable telescopic strut whereas the “spindle” type uses the more traditional screw thread method of adjustment.


Are top extensions available?

Yes, top extension boxes can be added to increase the height of a base box to support trenches with depths of up to 5.5m by utilising the base module with two box tops.


Are Manhole Boxes easy to assemble and install?

Yes, each box can be assembled and installed quickly without the need for an operative to enter the unsupported excavation.


How much do Manhole Boxes weigh?

The aggregate weight of a Manhole Box will essentially be determined by the size of panels used together with the type of struts and associated accessories. In conditions where a lightweight solution is required, the Groundforce range of backhoe Manhole Boxes provide an excellent option.


Do Groundforce offer training courses?

Groundforce Training Services offer industry leading accredited safety training primarily for those working in utilities, construction and civil engineering. From short duration health and safety awareness to more complex or specialist safety consultancy solutions.


Related Files

(2.21 MB)
Manhole Box Technical Literature
(3.85 MB)
Manhole Box User Guide
(1.53 MB)
Quick Start User Guide for Manhole Boxes
(2.15 MB)
EdgeSafe Manhole Box Edge Protection User Guide

Trench Boxes: Typical Installation Methodology

This quick and easy method ensures ground stability within a trench and helps minimise the excavation area to avoid damage to neighbouring structures and utilities in the ground. This methodology is best suited for trench boxes with shorter struts, if you use a trench box with long struts then other methods may be more suited, if you have any questions on different methods you can use contact our technical department.

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Our Manhole Box Sizes

Groundforce offers a full range of manhole box sizes designed to provide safe, fast, and compliant support for chamber installations. Similar in function to trench boxes, manhole boxes feature integral end return panels for four-sided protection, making them ideal for placing pre-cast manhole rings as an alternative to traditional sheets and frames.

Our manhole boxes are available in six sizes, ranging from 2.5m manhole boxes to 5.0m boxes. They can be installed in pre-dug trenches in stable ground or via a progressive “dig and push” method, depending on site conditions.

  • Depth capacity: up to 5.5 metres when used with up to two top extension units, subject to maximum panel pressure limits.

  • Width capacity: ideal for manhole chambers of various diameters, including our 4.5 m Manhole Box for precast rings up to 3 m in diameter.

Safety features: four-way handling points for easier lifting and positioning, with optional EdgeSafe and LadderSafe systems for safer access.

Explore Our Other Trench Boxes

Alongside our manhole boxes, Groundforce supplies:

  • Standard & Premier Trench Boxes: for open trench runs in utility, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects.

  • Backhoe Boxes: compact and lightweight for restricted access sites.

  • Drag Boxes: designed for progressive pipeline installation where shielding needs to move with the job.

Manhole Box Applications

 

Manhole boxes are purpose-built for the safe and efficient construction of manhole chambers, particularly along trench runs where additional width is needed for chamber installation. Their integral end panels provide four-sided protection, supporting excavation walls and reducing the risk of collapse.

Common applications include:

  • Manhole chamber construction for sewer, drainage, and utility networks.

  • Infrastructure projects requiring safe installation of large diameter precast rings without disrupting surrounding ground.

  • Utility and civil engineering works where chamber access points are needed along trench runs.

  • Flood and drainage schemes where chambers form part of the water management system.

Manhole boxes can be installed without operatives entering the unsupported excavation, improving safety while speeding up installation. Our engineering team can advise on the correct size and strut configuration for your chamber dimensions, soil conditions, and project requirements.

To generate an instant box solution for your excavation, our online tool YourSolution allows you to input your excavation parameters and receive a standard design solution in minutes, available 24/7.

Manhole Box Safety & Compliance

All Groundforce manhole boxes are designed and tested to the same rigorous standards as our trench boxes, providing essential protection for operatives working in and around excavations.

Key safety features and compliance standards include:

  • Manufactured and maintained under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 frameworks.

  • Optional EdgeSafe and LadderSafe barrier and access systems to meet site-specific safety protocols.

  • Four-way handling points for safe lifting and positioning.

  • Supplied with technical user guides, safe loading data, and installation instructions.

Supported by training from the Groundforce Training team for safe use on site.

Why Hire From Groundforce?

 

With over 40 years of expertise in excavation support, Groundforce is one of the UK’s most trusted providers of manhole box hire. Our systems are designed for ease of use, fast installation, and compliance with current safety standards.

We offer:

  • A wide range of sizes to suit all common pre-cast ring dimensions.

  • Modular top extensions for deeper excavations.

  • Fast design turnaround and engineering advice from our in-house team.

  • Flexible hire terms, nationwide availability, and prompt delivery.

From utility chambers to large infrastructure projects, Groundforce manhole boxes provide a safe, reliable, and efficient solution backed by decades of industry experience.

Manhole Box Delivery & Collection Information

Every manhole box delivery is handled by our in-house logistics team using purpose-built HGVs for safe loading, transport, and off-loading.

  • Trusted transport credentials: our fleet has held FORS Silver accreditation since 2016, ensuring compliance with CLOCS and Transport for London Work-Related Road Risk standards.

  • Skilled drivers: HGV Class 1 licensed, ALLMI-certified, and health & safety trained.

  • Nationwide coverage: with 18 depots across the UK, we provide quick delivery and collection wherever your project is located.

At the end of hire, we arrange fast and safe collection, helping to keep your project on schedule and disruption to a minimum.