Abstract: A retaining band assembly is provided for use in retaining a seal inside a pipe. The retaining band assembly includes a retaining band having a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of the retaining band has a flat surface and a first edge and the second end portion of the retaining band has a second edge. An expansion block is mounted on the flat surface of the retaining band in spaced-apart relation from the first edge to define a receiving surface on the flat surface. The expansion block includes an upright face extending in a direction generally normal to the flat surface. The second end portion is arranged to engage the receiving surface so that the upright face of the expansion block is positioned to lie in spaced-apart confronting relation to the second edge of the second end portion. A clip engages the second end portion and the first end portion adjacent to the receiving surface. The second edge is disposed between the expansion block and the clip.