Upgrading Access Covers for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
Solving Challenges with Heavy, Inefficient Access Covers
Our client approached JHT Engineering with a clear need: to upgrade their existing, unwieldy lift-out type covers. These covers presented significant operational challenges due to their excessive size, weight, and difficult handling, making them inefficient and potentially unsafe for their team. The goal was to replace them with a more manageable and secure solution.
JHT Engineering's Solution: The Defender Unit for Secure, Single-Person Operation
JHT Engineering provided a tailored solution by implementing the Defender unit, a fully sealed access cover system. This choice offered the ideal combination of enhanced security and crucial single-person operation, directly addressing the client's key concerns.
The Defender unit's integrated seal provides multiple benefits:
- Enhanced Security: The robust seal significantly increases the security of the chamber.
- Odour Minimization: It effectively minimizes odours emanating from the chamber, improving the working environment.
- Improved Handling: Its design allows for safe and efficient operation by a single individual, eliminating the challenges associated with the old, heavy covers.
Beyond the cover installation, our project scope also included:
- The safe removal of the existing handrail structure.
- The precise replacement of the old covers with the new Defender units.
- The casting of a new concrete slab to ensure a perfect fit and long-term stability for the upgraded access points.
Impact: Streamlined Operations, Improved Safety, and Enhanced Site Conditions
By upgrading to the Defender unit, our client achieved:
- Significant Improvement in Operational Efficiency: Covers can now be managed safely by one person, reducing labor and time.
- Enhanced Site Safety: The elimination of unwieldy covers and the single-person operation capability reduces manual handling risks.
- Increased Security & Odour Control: The sealed unit provides tangible improvements to site conditions and overall security.
This project exemplifies JHT Engineering's commitment to delivering practical, high-quality solutions that directly improve client operations, safety, and site functionality.
Related posts
.jpg)
2 Million Pound Scheme to Upgrade Water Facility
A £2M scheme to upgrade electrical and mechanical equipment on the water facility involved the design, manufacture, supply and installation of a large kiosk 8m x 3m x 3m, and a large raised platform.
Bespoke Metalwork for Enhanced Water Treatment Facility
Bespoke Metalwork for Enhanced Water Treatment Facility
Location: Bishops Green, South of England
Project Value: £32,252.00
Client: Tier 1 Construction Company
Designing a Mixer Mounting Frame Around Live Operations
Our client presented JHT Engineering with a significant challenge: to design and install an entirely bespoke support system for a heavy mixing unit within their facility. The critical constraint? There was no opportunity to take the machine out of commission at any point. This meant the entire process – from the initial survey and design considerations to the final installation – had to occur while the mixer remained fully operational. The existing steelwork supporting the unit was old and corroding, necessitating a solution that could integrate new, robust support without interrupting service.
Enabling Safe and Unobstructed Weir Access
Ingenious Engineering – Enabling Safe and Unobstructed Weir Access Project Overview: Navigating Safety and Flow on a Full-Time WeirOur client faced a unique engineering challenge on their full-time weir: the need for safe access for maintenance and servicing. According to both BSEN 4592 and Northwest Water (NWL) safety standards, a load-rated handrail is mandatory whenever the weir walkway is in use. However, the continuous flow rate of water across this particular weir presented a critical dilemma: any permanent fixture or ongoing presence risked disrupting the flow and causing an unacceptable build-up of detritus. The challenge was clear – how to provide robust safety when needed, without compromising the weir's essential function and flow integrity.
High-Tolerance Trash Screen for Waterway Crossing
JHT Engineering, already specialists in bespoke trash screen construction, faced an intriguing challenge that added a new layer of complexity to our expertise. Our client required a trash screen that not only effectively managed waterway debris but also had the unique necessity of supporting the crossing of heavy machinery and vehicles directly over the waterway. This meant the structure needed exceptional loading tolerances, presenting a significant engineering hurdle to integrate the steel screen seamlessly and robustly into the concrete foundations.
ONGOING: Enhancing Longevity – Marine-Grade Retrofit for Timber Support Replacement
JHT Engineering was tasked with a classic retrofit requirement: replacing existing timber supports with new steel brackets designed for enhanced longevity, specifically in a demanding marine environment. The challenge involved not only engineering robust new steel components but also applying a specialized marine-level coating onto mild steel to ensure maximum resistance against corrosion and wear in harsh, saline conditions.
Pre-Assembled Mild Steel Staircase – Enhancing Access and Efficiency at Water Treatment Plant
JHT Engineering recently completed a vital project for a water treatment plant in Nottinghamshire, providing a robust and durable mild steel staircase solution. The plant's operational environment is inherently harsh, demanding materials and construction methods that can withstand severe industrial conditions. The primary requirement was for a staircase fabricated from galvanised mild steel to ensure long-term resistance to corrosion and wear, a critical factor for maintaining structural integrity and safety in water treatment facilities.
Precision Cover Replacement for Restricted Access at Sewage Treatment Works
Our customer at a sewage treatment site in Essex faced a critical challenge: an existing access cover was proving to be inefficient and difficult to handle. Its significant weight and cumbersome nature meant it was unsuitable for single-person operation, posing a clear operational bottleneck that required an urgent and efficient solution.The complexity was further amplified by the cover's location. An overhead gantry used for lifting pumps out of the chamber, along with the legs of a junction box station, were in close proximity. This severely restricted space presented considerable design and installation challenges. The client needed a new cover that was not only easy to operate but also designed to fit seamlessly and safely within this tight, tricky environment.
.jpg)
Retrofit Reinforcement for Enhanced Crane Performance
JHT Engineering was brought in to reinforce a recently completed crane project, originally delivered by a third party. The client had concerns about the diverse and demanding lifting requirements of their product, specifically needing the crane to exceed its rated capabilities off the main beam. Recognising JHT Engineering's proven expertise in retrofit solutions, they knew we were the ideal partner to ensure their crane met and surpassed these crucial operational demands.
Security Kiosks for Water Facility
Our customer approached us as a construction contractor group to design, manufacture, deliver and install SR2 rated kiosks for their customer. These were for installation at a UK water supply site.There were strict requirements that had to be met in order for us to be successful in this project, and many complexities that wasn't too big for our experienced team to handle!
Sewage Treatment Works
The last upgrade works was in 2014 and currently treats sewage for approximately 4 million customers being the biggest in the UK. The latest upgrade works will ensure the site can treat sewage from up to 4.4 million people and accommodate flows from the Thames Tideway tunnel which is due for completion in 2024. We were engaged by our client to upgrade the security rated fencing on several (9 off) transformer compounds throughout the site.
Case studies
Real-world results. Our case studies & Project overviews showcase the breadth of our work across industries - highlighting technical challenges, innovative solutions, and measurable impact. Explore what we’ve helped others achieve.
2 Million Pound Scheme to Upgrade Water Facility
A £2M scheme to upgrade electrical and mechanical equipment on the water facility involved the design, manufacture, supply and installation of a large kiosk 8m x 3m x 3m, and a large raised platform.
Bespoke Metalwork for Enhanced Water Treatment Facility
Bespoke Metalwork for Enhanced Water Treatment Facility
Location: Bishops Green, South of England
Project Value: £32,252.00
Client: Tier 1 Construction Company
Designing a Mixer Mounting Frame Around Live Operations
Our client presented JHT Engineering with a significant challenge: to design and install an entirely bespoke support system for a heavy mixing unit within their facility. The critical constraint? There was no opportunity to take the machine out of commission at any point. This meant the entire process – from the initial survey and design considerations to the final installation – had to occur while the mixer remained fully operational. The existing steelwork supporting the unit was old and corroding, necessitating a solution that could integrate new, robust support without interrupting service.
Enabling Safe and Unobstructed Weir Access
Ingenious Engineering – Enabling Safe and Unobstructed Weir Access Project Overview: Navigating Safety and Flow on a Full-Time WeirOur client faced a unique engineering challenge on their full-time weir: the need for safe access for maintenance and servicing. According to both BSEN 4592 and Northwest Water (NWL) safety standards, a load-rated handrail is mandatory whenever the weir walkway is in use. However, the continuous flow rate of water across this particular weir presented a critical dilemma: any permanent fixture or ongoing presence risked disrupting the flow and causing an unacceptable build-up of detritus. The challenge was clear – how to provide robust safety when needed, without compromising the weir's essential function and flow integrity.
High-Tolerance Trash Screen for Waterway Crossing
JHT Engineering, already specialists in bespoke trash screen construction, faced an intriguing challenge that added a new layer of complexity to our expertise. Our client required a trash screen that not only effectively managed waterway debris but also had the unique necessity of supporting the crossing of heavy machinery and vehicles directly over the waterway. This meant the structure needed exceptional loading tolerances, presenting a significant engineering hurdle to integrate the steel screen seamlessly and robustly into the concrete foundations.
ONGOING: Enhancing Longevity – Marine-Grade Retrofit for Timber Support Replacement
JHT Engineering was tasked with a classic retrofit requirement: replacing existing timber supports with new steel brackets designed for enhanced longevity, specifically in a demanding marine environment. The challenge involved not only engineering robust new steel components but also applying a specialized marine-level coating onto mild steel to ensure maximum resistance against corrosion and wear in harsh, saline conditions.
Pre-Assembled Mild Steel Staircase – Enhancing Access and Efficiency at Water Treatment Plant
JHT Engineering recently completed a vital project for a water treatment plant in Nottinghamshire, providing a robust and durable mild steel staircase solution. The plant's operational environment is inherently harsh, demanding materials and construction methods that can withstand severe industrial conditions. The primary requirement was for a staircase fabricated from galvanised mild steel to ensure long-term resistance to corrosion and wear, a critical factor for maintaining structural integrity and safety in water treatment facilities.
Precision Cover Replacement for Restricted Access at Sewage Treatment Works
Our customer at a sewage treatment site in Essex faced a critical challenge: an existing access cover was proving to be inefficient and difficult to handle. Its significant weight and cumbersome nature meant it was unsuitable for single-person operation, posing a clear operational bottleneck that required an urgent and efficient solution.The complexity was further amplified by the cover's location. An overhead gantry used for lifting pumps out of the chamber, along with the legs of a junction box station, were in close proximity. This severely restricted space presented considerable design and installation challenges. The client needed a new cover that was not only easy to operate but also designed to fit seamlessly and safely within this tight, tricky environment.
Retrofit Reinforcement for Enhanced Crane Performance
JHT Engineering was brought in to reinforce a recently completed crane project, originally delivered by a third party. The client had concerns about the diverse and demanding lifting requirements of their product, specifically needing the crane to exceed its rated capabilities off the main beam. Recognising JHT Engineering's proven expertise in retrofit solutions, they knew we were the ideal partner to ensure their crane met and surpassed these crucial operational demands.
Security Kiosks for Water Facility
Our customer approached us as a construction contractor group to design, manufacture, deliver and install SR2 rated kiosks for their customer. These were for installation at a UK water supply site.There were strict requirements that had to be met in order for us to be successful in this project, and many complexities that wasn't too big for our experienced team to handle!
Sewage Treatment Works
The last upgrade works was in 2014 and currently treats sewage for approximately 4 million customers being the biggest in the UK. The latest upgrade works will ensure the site can treat sewage from up to 4.4 million people and accommodate flows from the Thames Tideway tunnel which is due for completion in 2024. We were engaged by our client to upgrade the security rated fencing on several (9 off) transformer compounds throughout the site.
Upgrading Access Covers for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency
Our client approached JHT Engineering with a clear need: to upgrade their existing, unwieldy lift-out type covers. These covers presented significant operational challenges due to their excessive size, weight, and difficult handling, making them inefficient and potentially unsafe for their team. The goal was to replace them with a more manageable and secure solution.
Expert guides
We believe in sharing knowledge. Our expert guides provide practical insights into fabrication, design, compliance and more - helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve.
Benefits Of Fibre Laser Welding
We are happy to introduce our latest addition to our Newcastle shop floor, 2kw fibre laser weld. This cutting-edge technology not only enhances our capabilities but also provides significant advantages to our customers.
Laser Cutting: Precision and Versatility for Your Manufacturing Needs
Laser cutting is a highly precise manufacturing process that uses a focused laser beam to cut or engrave materials. This advanced technology delivers clean, accurate cuts by melting, burning, or vaporizing the material with intense heat. Because of its ability to produce intricate designs with minimal waste, laser cutting is a go-to solution across diverse sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and creative design. It's incredibly versatile, working seamlessly with a wide range of materials from metals and plastics to wood and fabrics.
MIG, TIG, and Laser Welding, exploring what is right for you?
Welding is a core process in metal fabrication, essential for joining components across a wide range of industries and applications—from structural frameworks to fine decorative finishes. The method you choose has a direct impact on the strength, appearance, and cost-efficiency of the final product. At JHT Enginerring, we utilise three of the most widely adopted welding techniques—MIG, TIG, and laser welding—each chosen for its specific advantages depending on the project. Understanding their differences can help ensure your fabrication work meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
The Perfect Finish: Unlocking Durability and Aesthetics for Your Metal Fabrication
The right finish isn't just an afterthought; it's a critical decision that profoundly impacts your metal product's appearance, durability, and overall performance. Different finishing techniques enhance materials, providing everything from stunning aesthetics to essential protection against harsh environmental conditions. While numerous options exist, we'll focus on key finishes, with a special emphasis on our in-house powder coating capabilities. Choosing the right finish is paramount for your project's success.
Careers
Looking to join a company where your skills make a difference? We’re always on the lookout for driven, talented individuals to join our growing team. Explore our vacancies and start your next chapter with us.
Fabricator / Welder
JHT Engineering is looking for an experienced Fabricator / Welder to join their team. This full-time role is essential for fabricating various steel components and requires a skilled individual who can work both independently and as part of a team.
Painter
JHT Engineering is seeking a dedicated Painter to join our paint shop team. This role is crucial for ensuring our steel products receive high-quality powder coating. We are considering both part-time and full-time candidates.
Have a PROJECT in mind?
Our commitment to delivering high-quality and sustainable solutions address complex challenges across so many diverse industries. Give us a call today to see how we can support your next project.