Looking for ways to learn more about manhole covers and precautions? Here is a detailed guide to help expand your understanding of manhole cover lifters.

You might have seen manholes on streets, sidewalks, and different places while taking a walk in your neighborhood. Generally, not many people know the purpose of manholes and often assume them to be part of the sewer system.

A manhole is the opening created for access to enclosed spaces, such as a shaft, utility vault, and other underground public utility. Manholes play a significant role in keeping the city and citizens safe during heavy storms, rains, and extreme weather events. Only authorized parties are allowed to clean, inspect, rehabilitate, and get access to the manhole underground system.

If you want to open a manhole or learn more about the system, you are at the right place!

This blog highlights vital information that will help you learn various facts about the manhole system, ways to safely remove manhole covers, and get manhole access to perform specific activities. But first, let’s understand:

What is a manhole?

A manhole is a unit constructed underground providing access to public utilities and facilities for various purposes. A manhole cover comes in different sizes, shapes, and forms depending on the specifications of the facilities and other related factors. However, circular manholes are common everywhere as they are much safer and more convenient options.

Comparatively, it is easier to roll and pull out circular manhole covers than square and rectangular covers. Manhole coverings help prevent unauthorized individuals, animals, unwanted structures, and other elements from falling into the hole.

You can not open manhole covers with your bare hands or improper equipment as they are extremely heavy in weight. Manhole equipment such as standard opening tools or magnetic manhole cover lifters are specialized tools created to safely and effectively remove manhole covers without causing significant damage to the facility.

Is it illegal to open a sewer cover?

Generally, only authorized inspectors and individuals have manhole access to conduct repair, maintenance, cleaning, or routine inspections of the system household grounds. Unauthorized individuals are penalized per the state rules and regulations imposed by the government. Hence, it is vital to seek permission from the authorities before taking matters into your hands. Here are a few imperative factors to consider before opening old manhole covers using lifters. 

• Obtain permission: First and foremost, obtain permission from the authorities to get manhole access to clean, inspect, or perform other necessary activities. You will be given a permit card to get manhole access to conduct different activities.
• Secure the area: You would not want to injure people passing by the manhole when performing different activities. Secure the area using appropriate manhole safety precautions such as dividers, cones, or barriers.
• Use the right equipment: Tools are the most crucial part of the operation. Without the right tools and magnetic manhole cover lid lifters, opening the covers and avoiding unwanted injuries can be challenging.
• Plan ahead of time: It requires appropriate skills and correct techniques to use new or old manhole cover lifters to open different types of manhole covers.

How to open a manhole cover?

Opening the manhole cover can be quite tricky. The process of opening a manhole might vary depending on several factors, such as the feature of the cover, shape, size, and purpose. But how to lift a manhole cover?

Here are simple steps that may help you lift or open the cover using standard or magnetic manhole cover lifters:

• Inspect the manhole cover for signs of instruction or labels that indicate the right way to open the covers without causing any injuries. Based on the instructions, you can use the right tools and equipment to open the manhole cover.
• Usually, manhole covers are heavy, so it is best to take help from experts or another person that can help you lift the openers carefully.
• Once you cover the loose, carefully detach the magnetic manhole cover lifters and pull the covers towards yourself.
• Ensure to relock the covers once your work is done. Check it multiple times before leaving the spot to avoid unwanted incidents taking place once you leave the spot.

What are the safety points for Manhole access?

Manhole access can be dangerous and full of unpredictable events. Preparing yourself before performing any activities will help you finish your job quickly and efficiently. Follow the mentioned manhole safety pointers to minimize the risk involved during the process

• Always begin by inspecting the area before getting straight into the manhole. Doing this will help you determine the existing problems within the system and find the solution.
• Never forget to wear good-quality protective equipment before going inside the manhole. Protective equipment such as hand gloves, musk, boots, helmet, and bodysuits is a must before entering the manhole.
• Have an energy plan to help you evacuate all your members quickly from the manhole. Appoint some members outside the unit and keep them updated about the process so that they are always ready to help in any situation.
• Before taking your team members all at once in the manhole, look for a proper ventilation system. If there is no ventilation, it might become extremely challenging to go deeper or stay inside the unit for a long time. Discuss the manhole safety measures with all your members.

Best manhole cover lifters

Italifters is one of the most popular and reliable cover lifter companies that sell premium quality covers at affordable prices. They offer both non-magnetic and magnetic manhole cover lifters with exceptional features and a durable body.

Best magnetic manhole cover lifters

The Italifters CL10 magnetic manhole cover lifter is a universal magnetic lifter with a rectangular base suitable for lifting, moving, and repositioning manhole covers. To order this exceptional and multifunctional magnetic cover lifter, explore our website.

You can effortlessly book your order online by exploring our product section on your internet devices. All you have to do is mention the necessary details and wait for our confirmation message. We will deliver the products as soon as possible to the mentioned destination.