The safety shield of the invention consists of a plurality of vertical columns having horizontally disposed steps extending therefrom. The vertical columns are arranged in pairs along opposite walls of the trench. Horizontal sidewall members extend parallel to the walls of the trench and are located between the steps extending from the columns. Transverse bracing members are located between and supported by the columns of each opposed pair of columns. The transverse bracing members are pivoted at their midpoint and include pivotable clevises on opposite ends thereof to facilitate assembly and disassembly. Oversized holes formed on the steps of the vertical columns, horizontal sidewall members and transverse bracing members align with one another such that a single latchpin can be used to connect all three members together. Thus, the safety shield of the invention can be assembled quickly and easily.
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