This installation comprises 43 covers, each weighing approximately 125 kg. The cover is a deep tray, with granite inlaid pieces. The attachment points are M16 threaded inserts. Special full length threaded keys were provided to secure the KeyTec Spreader Bar to the cover. Periodically, a large number of the covers are withdrawn for maintenance work to be undertaken on the gas installation below. The Manhole Buddy Lifting Trolley and KeyTec Spreader Bar Kit are stored in a small underground closet, accessed through a hinged cover at the edge of the cover installation.

Deep concrete-filled internal cover, in a food factory. This cover was in an internal passageway used by forklift trucks and other powered vehicles.

Due to the close-fitting nature of the cover, it was very useful to be able to unseat the cover, using the high leverage lifting position (on the lifting trolley) in conjunction with the lifting hook and end loops on the KeyTec spreader bar.

Based on previous experience, this cover was estimated to be in range 80 - 100 kg. 

Typical British Telecom roadway configuration, with 2 or 3 sets of split covers in a single frame. The majority would seem to be placed without interconnecting bolts. A single 1/2 cover is an easy and secure lift for either of the magnets.

Two steps advisable prior to lifting. Firstly, place the magnet on the edge of the cover and engage the trolley using the inboard high leverage lifting position. By initially unseating the cover, the subsequent lifting is both easier and quicker.

As a precaution, on any split cover, always assume the bolts are not in place, hence first place the magnet centrally on one half and see if it will lift freely. Repositioning the magnet centrally (if required) takes less than 10 seconds

We initially attempted to unseat and lift this cover using the lesser strength Supreme magnet, but without success. Unseating and raising it with the stronger Mega magnet was quick and relatively easy. A debate arose amongst onlookers as to the weight of the cover. Fortunately there was a weighing facility nearby. We wheeled the cover to the weighbridge, on the trolley, suspended from the magnet.

The cover (with the trolley detached and magnet removed) weighed a whopping 103 kg. We subsequently checked the accuracy of the weigh-bridge using multiple bags of sand - it was accurate.

Southern Water, Fareham

Cover ‘twists’ and locks itself into frame using three ramps, one visible on right hand side of picture. First placed the magnet on the edge of the manhole cover and used the high leverage lifting position to loosen it within the frame. Then placed the magnet centrally on the cover. As the cover was raised, it rode up the ramps in the frame and came out with no resistance. Estimated weight, minimum 50-60 kg - possibly much more. A very physical two-man lift, requiring both a lifting and twisting action. Also very challenging to replace.

With Manhole Buddy, operator distanced from the opening at all times. Minimal downward effort required to both unseat and lift cover. Sideways carriage of cover achieved by pivoting on the wheels. Controlled and safe replacement of cover. All major risk potential eliminated.
Total time taken - Lift, Inspect, Replace - less than 1 minute.

A very common one piece 600 mm square, load-bearing cover, fitted in a poorly surfaced area of an industrial yard. Eased out of the frame and lifted with the smaller Supreme magnet, with the Alloy lifting frame.

On more heavily gravelled and grassed surfaces, the wider and more pliable off-road tyres make it easier to move the load around. However, in many cases, it is possible to raise the cover and swivel it through 90 degrees to gain working space, so the optional wheel set is not always needed. If there are concerns about the wheels sinking on a softer surface, a 50 centimetre square piece of thick plywood will adequately support most loads and provide a smooth surface.

This ‘cloverleaf’ cover, pictured on Dublin City Council premises, is approximately 800 mm wide, at least 125 mm deep and certainly weighs in excess of 80 kg. It may have been possible to lift this with the MagTec magnet but given its size, shape, weight and surface condition, the KeyTec was clearly a safer option.

Click here to see a 30 second video clip of this cover being removed and replaced

Trialling with Hampshire Police. Lifting, inspecting and sealing drainage covers and access lids prior to a Royal visit in 2007.

Officers turned up with toolboxes full of lifting keys, pry bars and hammers, expecting a long and arduous day’s work. Majority of covers were lifted using the lesser Supreme magnet, with the Alloy lifting trolley, in much less than half the time anticipated.

Equipment subsequently purchased for Search Support operations and reportedly used frequently on scene of crime operations, searching drainage systems for discarded weapons and other evidence

Purchased by Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Sevice primarily for lifting these access lids, from above vehicle inspection pits. Such covers are an awkward size, have sharp edges and are generally difficult for one person to lift, move and replace. Most notably, the lone worker now stands well away from the open pit during lifting and replacement of the covers.

To maintain a reasonable degree of control, the work was previously undertaken by two persons using handheld keys; the challenge of the covers was primarily their size and shape. This is a now a safe one-man operation, with greatly reduced risk.

This 36 inch cover was lifted outside of the US Distributor’s premises. Was preceded by placing the magnet on the cover edge and easing it up, using the high leverage facility - see below. When loose, this was a very comfortable lift using the lesser power Supreme magnet.

Unseating the cover prior to lifting it (as shown in image above left)