Access cover features

Strength and stability

Made to perform under pressure, these features maximise rigidity, distribute loads effectively and protect the surrounding road surface from fatigue and failure.

Feature	Description
Beam in beam design	Both covers of the double triangular grating feature universal beams that interlock to provide high rigidity while still allowing the grating to hinge as one unit.
Enlarged frame corners	Enlarged corners spread loads evenly across the foundation, enhancing reliability and lifespan.
Frame gussets	Strengthened corners dissipate loading stresses effectively, providing long-term strength and preventing damage to the frame and cover.
High seating position	Directs forces vertically to convert traffic loads into mortar-compatible compression forces.
Mortar apertures	Frame holes allow mortar to flow through the flange, creating a strong mechanical bond for added stability.
Rounded flange	Smooth, rounded edges reduce stress points and help prevent cracking around the frame.
Textured mortar engagement flange	Texturing above and below the flange improves mortar grip and reduces lateral movement and cracking.
Three-point seating	Non-rocking three-point suspension provides stable seating for silent, reliable operation.
Universal beam	I-beam structure increases rigidity and reduces seat wear for a longer service life. This structural design, usually featured in D400 and above manhole covers and double triangular gratings, utilises universal beams (I-beams) to maximise rigidity across the cover. Often used in bridge design, this structure increases strength while reducing weight and allows the covers to function as a highly stable unit under heavy traffic loads, while retaining the capability for safe, opening during necessary maintenance.

Safety and handling

Made to protect maintenance crews and road users, these features simplify lifting, reduce manual handling risk and prevent accidental movement during operation.

Feature	Description
High skid resistance	Independently tested by a UKAS-accredited laboratory to achieve a PSRV value of 70+ on the chequer surface.
Hinged in three directions	Can be hinged in any one of three directions, provided at the point of order.
Keyway lifting	Integrated keyway frame lifting points provide safe and secure handling.
Mechanical lifting point	Built-in lifting points allow safe mechanical lifting, reducing manual handling and improving on-site safety.
One person installation	Light design allows safe installation by a single person, reducing labour costs.
Pedestrian and cycle safe	Smaller openings increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists compared with standard gratings.
Reversible hinge	Allows the grating to hinge in the direction of traffic flow, improving safety during access.
Safety keyways	Safety keyways prevent accidental lifting key disengagement during handling for safer operation.
Safety-stop hinges	Hold covers securely open to prevent accidental closure during access.
Sequential cover opening	Covers open in sequence using standard BS 7903 lifting keys for safe, controlled access.
Slide out cover	Designed with tapered sides and centralised lifting points to allow the cover to slide out of the frame.

Security and access control

Keeping infrastructure protected and secure, these features prevent theft, tampering and unauthorised entry while maintaining safe and reliable access.

Features	Description
Chained cover	The cover is connected to the frame with a chain, reducing the risk of theft.
LPCB lock	Features an LPCB Level 3 lock, offering an unrivalled level of high security.
Spring bar	A low-security spring bar lock provides quick, reliable cover retention.
Turnbuckle locked	Covers are secured with a turnbuckle lock for simple, reliable closure.

Longevity and maintenance efficiency

Built for the long haul, these features reduce lifetime maintenance, improve inspection access and ensure the product performs flawlessly for years to come.

Feature	Description
10-year warranty	Available with a 10-year warranty for lasting confidence and proven performance (subject to terms).
Anti-blockage keyway	GritBlocker comes pre-installed, preventing debris build-up in the keyway, maintaining easy maintenance access.
Anti-debris hinge	ClearBore fully enclosed hinges prevent debris ingress, ensuring smooth, unrestricted movement.
Captive hinges	Captive hinges deter theft and allow safe, easy lifting during maintenance.
Inboard hinge	Concealed hinges sit within the frame, protecting them during installation and preventing debris blockage.
Indexed corners	Indexed corners ensure correct orientation and alignment first time, every time.
Inspection window	The inspection window allows a safe and easy view into the chamber without needing to remove the covers.

Compliance and performance

Meeting and exceeding industry standards, these features provide assurance that products perform in the most demanding conditions.

Feature	Description
BS EN 124-2 compliance	Meets the requirements of BS EN 124-2
CD534 v0.2.0 compliance	Meets the requirements of CD 534 v0.2.0.
Telecoms approved	Covers have been approved for use by telecommunications companies such as Openreach.

Related pages

Knowledge base article

CCPI FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the Code for Construction Product Information and our assessed products.

Knowledge base article

Understanding clear openings in manhole covers

Clear opening is a critical safety and compliance measure for manhole covers. It is defined in both BS EN 124 and CD 534.

Case study

Years of high-quality performance

Our Highway D400 covers are still operating at full capacity after three and a half years of being subjected to high levels of HGV traffic. Meaning the organisation can focus solely on new work, rather than being distracted by manhole covers that have failed prematurely and need fixing or, in some cases, reinstalling.