IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Evaluation of Sewer-Cover Lifting Equipment

Abstract

For several years, municipalities have been adopting a new type of cover for their manholes and water supply. The tools that are used to lift conventional covers are not suitable for these new models and their use presents a risk of back injury for workers. At the request and with the agreement of the Association paritaire du secteur affaires municipales, three municipalities, their unions and a private company, the researchers drew up an inventory of the processes, work methods and existing lifting tools. From observations and measurements, they evaluated the degree of safety provided by these tools when lifting conventional covers as well as new covers. No existing tool was appropriate.
The study provides some solution scenarios for standardizing the tool and cover. However, collaboration of a cover manufacturer will be necessary to implement these solutions. The authors believe that application of the recommendations formulated in their report will reduce the variability in operators’ working conditions as well as biomechanical risk factors, thus improving safety and productivity.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0098-0270
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2003
Team:
  • Raymond Bélanger (IRSST)
  • Serge Massé (IRSST)
  • Daniel Imbeau (IRSST)