A trench cover protects pedestrians and site operatives from falls, and supports vehicle traffic, over open pavement excavations during street works, utility repairs, and other groundworks projects. Altrad Hire & Sales supplies the Trench Cover for exactly this purpose, giving contractors a fast way to keep a footpath or access route open and safe while work continues below it.
Built from ultra tough plastic, the Trench Cover is quieter underfoot than steel or timber alternatives and carries an anti slip surface to keep the covered area secure in wet conditions. The Safe Cover 12/8 variant measures 1200mm by 800mm, is 30mm thick, weighs 12kg, and is load tested to up to 2000kg, so it copes with pedestrian and vehicle traffic without adding unnecessary weight to the panel. Like other plastic trench covers, its tool free interlocking panels connect without specialist equipment, letting your team install and remove covers quickly on site.
The Trench Cover complies with the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice, so it meets the standard local authorities and utility companies expect on public highway and footway works. It suits urban streetworks where footpath continuity matters, temporary reinstatement of access over open trenches during overnight or weekend closures, and shallow excavation covering on gas, water, and telecoms projects. For added protection at the excavation edge, pair it with a Trench Guard Panel for toe boarding and perimeter protection. Where your site instead needs a walkway across the open trench itself, the Elite TrenchCross offers an alternative crossing solution.
Key Features and Benefits
Ultra tough plastic construction: quieter than steel or timber alternatives.
Anti slip surface: keeps the covered area secure underfoot in wet conditions.
Load tested to up to 2000kg: supports pedestrian and vehicle access over the excavation.
Tool free interlocking panels: install and remove covers quickly without specialist equipment.
Lightweight at 12kg: easy for one operative to handle and reposition on site.
Code of Practice compliant: meets the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a trench cover?
A. A trench cover is a safety panel placed over an open pavement excavation to stop pedestrians, vehicles, and site operatives falling in while work continues underneath. The Trench Cover from Altrad Hire & Sales is made from ultra tough plastic and complies with the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice.
Q. Can you hire a trench cover?
A. Yes, the Trench Cover is available to hire as well as buy, so you only pay for it while the excavation is open.
Q. What is the load capacity of a trench cover?
A. The Trench Cover is load tested to up to 2000kg, giving it enough strength for both pedestrian footfall and passing vehicle traffic over the excavation.
Contact your nearest Altrad Hire & Sales branch to discuss the Trench Cover for your project.
