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Putting the Unikey Universal Manhole Cover Key Kit to the Test
Lifting a stuck manhole cover can be tough. Drainage engineers and utility workers face heavy, deep-set covers every day. That’s why we asked Aaron McCulla from AM Drainage Ltd to test out our Unikey Universal Manhole Cover Key & Lifting Kit on a real job.
Aaron has years of experience working with Welsh Water and Morrison Water Services. He recently started his own drainage company, AM Drainage Ltd. With his hands-on knowledge, he was the perfect person to trial our updated manhole cover key kit.
Putting the Unikey to Work
Aaron tested the Unikey kit on manhole covers here in Gaerwen, where we’re based, before using it on an actual job. The challenge? A block-paved manhole cover hiding a blocked drain. These covers can be awkward to lift, but the Unikey made it simple.
Aaron’s verdict:
“Today’s job: A blocked drain hiding under a deep-set, block-paved manhole cover—they can be a real nightmare to lift! Luckily, my Metex Unikey made light work of it. 💪
Designed for manhole covers of all types & built for utilities who need reliability. An essential tool that’s earned its place in my van! Once the lid was up, the blockage didn’t stand a chance.”
What Makes the Unikey Stand Out?
The Unikey Universal Manhole Cover Key Kit comes in a durable carry case, keeping the handles and key tips organized. This was a big plus for Aaron, who usually carries multiple separate keys for different covers. And the bright green colour came in handy for him as well:
“The vibrant colour is great for visibility and ensures they’re never misplaced on site. The carry bag is great—it’s incredibly convenient, especially when traveling across fields or having to parking far from properties. Having all the attachments at hand saves me time and effort, without needing to go back and forth to the van. “
The kit includes:
- Two heavy-duty handles
- Interchangeable T tips (33mm & 22mm)
- 10mm Hook tips
- M10 & M12 Screw tips
- Stopcock Key
The quick-release tips make it easy to swap between manhole key types. With a 250kg Safe Working Load, tested by Lloyds British Testing, the Unikey provides reliable strength for tough jobs.
Why Choose the Unikey?
If you lift manhole covers regularly, the Metex Unikey is a must-have tool. It’s built for drainage contractors, civil engineers, and utility companies who need a reliable, all-in-one solution.
✅ Universal design – Works on all types of covers
✅ Quick-release tips – Swap key types in seconds
✅ Durable & strong – Certified 250kg Safe Working Load (Lloyds British Testing 1000kg straight pull destructive test)
✅ Easy to store – Comes in a handy carry case
Ready to upgrade your manhole cover lifting keys, or stock Unikey? Contact us today to learn more about the Unikey kit – just email sales@metexonline.com or give us a call on 0800 130 3646.
