We cover how grave shoring not only protects the grave diggers but the people mourning their loss too and maintain the dignity of the deceased. You’ll also learn about the practical benefits, set-up process, and why Guardian’s green shields help create a professional and respectful environment at every burial.

Please note: Councils around New Zealand have different requirements around grave digging, so requirements and by-laws will differ from region to region.

What is grave shoring and why is it important?

In essence a grave is a small trench or excavation, and a cemetery is an area where multiple excavations have been made, sometimes very close to each other. This disturbance of the ground increases the risk of a collapse of the trench walls.

Grave shoring supports the structural integrity of graves. It gives absolute certainty for workers and mourners and conveys respect.

The shoring (metal structures – essentially aluminium trench shields) support the sides of the grave, making them safe for the grave digger(s), particularly when finishing is done by hand. They also protect those who have gathered to pay their respects and the dignity of the deceased. Browse our range HERE.

Struts ensure the shields are well supported so the coffin/casket has an unimpeded descent to its final resting place. Shields and struts are removed after the burial, when mourners have left.

How does grave shoring work?

Typically, two aluminium trench shields 2.4 metres long x 0.6 metres high or 2.4 metres long x 0.8 metres high are lowered into the newly completed grave either by a digger or a backhoe, to keep the side walls from caving in during burial proceedings. These shields must be stacked up to the required depth to keep the graves structure sound.

These specialist shields are the same or a similar grade to the shields vital to New Zealand’s infrastructure projects.

Respect

The TransQuip LITEguard cemetery grave trench shields are coloured green to help create a professional, natural, and sympathetic graveside environment. This also means they blend with the artificial grass mats generally used to manage soil around the graveside surrounds.

Avoiding extra work

The consequences of grave collapse could result in injury or worse – but also wasted time in doing the job again. Grave diggers take pride in their work and, out of respect for the family and the deceased, want it to look carefully prepared.

Digging a grave with a backhoe can take 30-40 minutes. And, though it’s increasingly rare, hand-digging can take 6 to 8 hours.

Working with New Zealand’s various soil types and variables including root incursion, or encountering rocks, makes every job different.

Buy or hire?

Most councils or contractors buy these shields. We also sell accessories like grave lids to make the grave safe for people to walk over when lowering the coffin in or when waiting for proceedings.

Practicalities

The light, easily manoeuvred aluminium shields are easy to clean – dirt and mud should hose-off. Always store them in a safe place to protect them from possible damage.

To find out more CLICK HERE

Or call the team at Guardian on 0508 41 41 41. We look forward to talking to you.

Disclaimer: All Guardian products are engineered and manufactured to comply with applicable industry standards and safety regulations in New Zealand, including those

related to excavation support and ground stabilization. However, it is the sole responsibility of the end user to ensure that all equipment is used correctly,

safely, and within the limits for which it is designed. By purchasing or using our products, the user acknowledges and accepts full responsibility for ensuring the

equipment is used appropriately and in compliance with all applicable regulations and best practices. Always consult a qualified engineer or competent person before use.