Fibrelite has seen a tremendous increase in enquiries for their lightweight composite access covers from industries keen to move away from the traditionally used metal and concrete and change their specifications to composites (a future material).
“We have experienced a huge increase in new enquiries from so many industries including rail, ports and airports, water, gas and electricity companies, power stations, retail and commercial developments, telecoms, sports arenas and stadiums, in fact the applications are endless.” reports Ian Thompson, Managing Director.
Industries are favouring composites and moving away from traditional materials as they react to changing regulations, strict health and safety policies and are becoming more concerned with whole life cost. “Our enquiries are coming in thick and fast from all over the world and we are seeing our manhole and service trench covers being specified by architects more and more.” says Ian.
With RIDDOR (Reporting or Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) statistics attributing over half of injuries (resulting in absence from work) to manual handling it’s already known that reducing hazards in this area is a priority.
The design of the Fibrelite covers incorporates up to two lifting points for specially designed lifting handles. These allow the operator to remove the cover without trapping fingers or bending over thus maximising the safety of the lifting technique.
Another major problem across the globe is aging infrastructure. Bridges, highways, rail network, water lines and sewer systems are all deteriorating at a rapid pace. One of the principal factors related to the deterioration of infrastructure is corrosion. GRP products are also now being widely used for applications where corrosion can destroy underground infrastructure.
In response to customer demand, Fibrelite now offers company logos and other brand markings on its covers. Any style logo or other marking can be permanently moulded into the upper surface of the cover in single or multiple colours. For additional brand or product identification, or to blend in with the colour or layout of a facility, Fibrelite can mould its composite covers in nearly any colour or combination of colours.
Upon request, Fibrelite can also provide bespoke and custom trench covering solutions. This means that the trench cover dimensions, internal stiffeners and fibre architecture can be altered to optimise the performance of each panel based on project specific design criteria.
Founded on a tradition of quality and innovation, Fibrelite has been at the forefront of composite technology since 1980.
The first ever composite manhole cover was designed by Fibrelite for petrol service stations, to eliminate health and safety issues associated with traditional metal covers. Today, Fibrelite is established as a leading world player in its specialist field, with a global reputation for high quality products.
