06/19/2026
Safe Handling of Manhole Casting
Manhole castings often require raising, lowering, or adjustment during construction operations. These castings are typically made of cast iron and can weigh between 140 and 350 pounds or more, depending on the application. Every worker tackling manhole castings needs a Manhole Buddy Tool for safety, efficiency and ease!
Manual handling of these components presents significant safety hazards, including:
* Lower back strains and sprains
* Musculoskeletal injuries
* Pinch point and crush injuries
* Hand and foot injuries from dropped loads
* Loss of control due to awkward load positioning or slippery surfaces
Safe Work Practices
Workers must not attempt to manually deadlift or reposition heavy manhole castings. Traditional two-person lifting methods do not eliminate the hazards associated with handling these heavy components.
When raising or adjusting manhole castings:
* Use approved mechanical lifting devices and attachments designed for the task.
* Inspect lifting equipment prior to use.
* Ensure all lifting points and attachments are secure before lifting.
* Keep hands and feet clear of pinch points and suspended loads.
* Maintain clear communication among crew members during lifting operations.
* Follow manufacturer instructions and site-specific safety procedures.
Unsafe Practices
The following practices are prohibited and create a significant risk of injury:
* Manually lifting or deadlifting manhole castings.
* Using a traditional two-person lift in place of proper mechanical lifting equipment.
* Wedging wood blocks, steel bars, pry bars, or other makeshift materials beneath a casting to support or elevate it.
* Using damaged, unapproved, or improvised lifting devices.
Associated Hazards
Improper lifting and adjustment methods can result in:
* Lower back strains and musculoskeletal injuries.
* Pinch point injuries to hands and fingers.
* Crush injuries to hands, feet, and lower extremities.
* Dropped or uncontrolled loads.
* Struck-by injuries caused by shifting or falling materials.
Wood blocks, steel wedges, pry bars, and other improvised supports are particularly hazardous because they can:
* Slip or become dislodged without warning.
* Crack, split, bend, or fail under load.
* Cause the casting to shift unexpectedly.
* Create unstable loading conditions.
* Eject from beneath the casting under pressure and strike nearby workers.
A sudden failure of an improvised support can cause the casting to drop, shift, or roll, potentially resulting in serious injury or property damage.
Safety Reminder
The safest lift is one performed with the proper equipment. The Manhole Buddy tool reduces the risk of injury, improve efficiency, and help ensure compliance with workplace safety requirements. No employee should manually lift a load that can be safely handled using appropriate mechanical assistance.
Plan the lift. Use the right tool. Prevent injuries. Get your Manhole Buddy today!
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