What are uprights in a trench shoring system?

Uprights in a trench shoring system refer to the vertical members positioned to contact the earth. Their primary role is to provide support against the walls of the trench, helping to prevent cave-ins and ensure the safety of workers operating within the excavation. By being vertical, these uprights effectively distribute the pressure from the soil above, aiding in stabilizing the trench environment.

Other choices present alternatives to various elements of shoring systems; for instance, horizontal members along the ground might refer to bridging elements, while diagonal supports serve to add additional structural integrity and stability. Adjustable members that can be removed easily could pertain to certain features of a shoring system but are not categorized as uprights. Only the designation of vertical members explicitly captures the definition of uprights within this context.