View catalogue
Case Study: How Metex Unikey Helps AM Drainage Work Smarter
When Aaron McCulla set up AM Drainage Ltd after years of experience with Welsh Water and Morrison Water Services, he needed reliable tools to help him tackle a wide range of drainage jobs efficiently. One of the key challenges in his daily work is lifting and accessing manhole covers of various sizes and weights. This is why we provided him with our new Metex Unikey Universal Manhole Cover Key & Lifting Kit to test in real-world conditions! After using Unikey for several weeks, Aaron shared his feedback on how it has made his job easier and more efficient.
The Challenges of Accessing Manhole Covers
Aaron’s day to day work mainly involves blockage clearances and CCTV surveys. Not every job requires lifting a manhole cover, but when tracing a problem to mains drains in the road, having the right manhole cover lifting key is essential.
Before using Unikey, Aaron faced difficulties when dealing with specialist lids and deep-set block paving covers. While his standard lifting keys worked fine for many manhole covers, others required screw holes or smaller key slots, making traditional tools impractical. Aaron describes how he tried to solve the issue in the past:
“From a H&S perspective I used to lift these types of lids with screwdrivers and a prybar. The Unikey’s hook attachments make life much easier, and they certainly prevent trapping fingers!”
How Metex Unikey Made a Difference
After using Unikey on multiple jobs, Aaron quickly saw its benefits:
- Versatility: With interchangeable tips, he could switch between T tips, hook tips, and screw tips depending on the type of manhole cover he encountered.
- Efficiency: The quick-release system made swapping tips fast, reducing downtime on site.
- Safety: With a 250kg Safe Working Load (certified by Lloyds British Testing), he could lift even stubborn covers without risking injury.
- Professionalism: Customers noticed the bright green, well-organised kit, commenting on how professional his setup looked.
- Portability: Keeping everything in one durable carry case meant fewer trips back and forth to the van, further saving him time.
Real-World Impact
Aaron shared how Unikey significantly improved his efficiency on jobs:
“Unikey has certainly shortened time on site. Having everything inside a bag saves trips to the van. Customers have even commented on how professional the kit looks! Comments like ‘You have all the gear’… I usually reply ‘but still no idea!'”
Even in tough situations where manhole covers were seized or hidden, Unikey’s strong build and variety of tips ensured he always had the right tool for the job.
“The attachments are so easy to interchange, the carry case keeps everything organised and easy to hand. And the vibrant colour means they won’t be missed on site.”
Potential Improvements
While Aaron was highly impressed with Unikey, he suggested longer handles or attachments to make it easier for taller users, and larger grips for two-handed operation on heavier covers. These refinements could make lifting even safer and easier.
Would Aaron Recommend Metex Unikey?
Absolutely. One of the main benefits he mentioned to us was that many drainage engineers carry multiple tools to lift different covers, whereas Unikey provides one universal solution. This in turn not only reduces equipment weight, but also helps keep work vans tidy and organised:
“Many vans are close to the weight limit with jetting equipment, water and CCTV. Therefore, having one tool that does it all keeps the weight down and shelves tidier. I’d definitely recommend it to other drainage engineers!”
Conclusion
The Metex Unikey Universal Manhole Cover Key & Lifting Kit has proven to be an essential drainage tool for AM Drainage Ltd, making Aaron’s daily work safer, faster, and more efficient. If you’re a drainage contractor, civil engineer, or utility professional looking for a versatile and durable manhole key, Unikey is the solution.
Want to find out more? We’re here to help, just drop us an email or call 0800 130 3646 and we’re happy to provide more information. Unikey is also stocked by our trusted drainage retailers!
