Planning access aids for shafts correctly

Access aids for shafts are a key component of modern civil engineering infrastructure. Find out how cast iron manhole steps, manhole steps, and pocket manhole steps form the basis for safe, efficient, and standard-compliant shaft operation.

Whether sewage shafts, cable ducts, or supply shafts: shafts are among the most safety-critical areas of infrastructure. Employees regularly enter them to maintain, inspect, clean, or renovate systems. Space is often limited, entry heights vary greatly, and the risk of falling is correspondingly high.

Entry aids for shafts provide the necessary safety here. They enable controlled ascent and descent and form the basis for compliant and efficient operation. For civil engineering companies, municipalities, concrete plants, and operators, they are therefore not optional accessories, but an integral part of planning.

Why safe access aids are essential in shaft construction

Shafts are work areas with an increased risk potential. Falls are among the most common causes of accidents in construction and maintenance. At the same time, operators are legally obliged to provide safe access and to ensure this on a permanent basis. A suitable access aid reduces these risks in several ways by:

• Enabling safe and controlled ascent and descent, thereby protecting employees.

• Creating clear and repeatable procedures for maintenance, inspection, and renovation work.

• Significantly reducing liability and accident risks for operators and clients.

• Increasing efficiency during ongoing operations through permanently installed solutions.

• Making maintenance work faster and safer without having to rely on temporary aids.

What are access aids for shafts?

Access aids for shafts are permanently integrated or permanently installed systems that enable safe access to vertical or inclined shafts. They are part of the structure or are permanently attached to it.

Classic access aids include cast iron manhole steps, manhole steps and pocket manhole steps. They differ in terms of design, comfort, and safety level. It is important to distinguish them from fall protection systems.

Access aids enable access. Fall protection systems also prevent uncontrolled falls. In many cases, both systems are combined.

Which entry solutions are used in shaft construction

Different entry aids are used depending on the area of application, shaft depth, and frequency of use.

Cast iron manhole steps

Cast iron manhole steps are the classic form of access aid in shaft construction. They consist of individual steps that are firmly anchored in the shaft and arranged at regular intervals.

Typical areas of application are inspection and maintenance shafts in sewer systems or supply engineering. Cast iron manhole steps are often integrated into precast concrete elements or retrofitted.

Their advantages lie in their simple design, low space requirements, and high robustness. They are particularly suitable for shafts with limited diameters and low frequency of use. Correct arrangement and slip-resistant design are prerequisites.

Manhole steps

Manhole steps are similar to climbing irons, but offer a larger and more ergonomic tread surface. They enable more comfortable ascent and descent and increase footing stability.

They are primarily used in locations where manholes are regularly accessed or where there are higher requirements for ergonomics and safety. Due to their design, manhole steps can be easily combined with other safety systems.

The increased space requirement is offset by the increased comfort of use and improved surefootedness.

Pocket manhole steps

Pocket manhole steps are closed or partially closed access systems that guide and secure ascent and descent within a shaft. They offer a significantly higher level of safety than open step systems. They are preferred for use in deep shafts, in areas of high usage, or in sensitive areas. The guided access significantly reduces the risk of missteps and falls.

Climbing boxes can often be combined with additional fall protection systems and meet high requirements for occupational safety and standard compliance. They are often the preferred solution for municipal infrastructure and industrial applications.

Fall protection in shafts: When additional safety systems are necessary

Access aids alone are not sufficient in all cases. Additional fall protection measures are required, particularly for high access heights, frequent use, or increased risk potential.

These include, for example, guidance systems, restraint systems, or safety devices in the access area. A holistic approach is crucial. Planning, access aids, and fall protection must be coordinated to ensure a consistent safety concept.

Overview of areas of application for access aids

Access aids for manholes are used in numerous industries:

• In civil engineering and sewer construction, they are indispensable for the construction, inspection, and maintenance of sewage and supply systems.

• Renovation companies need safe access in order to carry out work in existing manholes efficiently.

• Concrete plants and precast manufacturers integrate access aids directly into shaft components, thus creating complete solutions that comply with standards.

• Local authorities rely on durable and low-maintenance systems for the operation of their infrastructure.

• Access aids also ensure safe access to technical facilities and shafts in industrial and utility plants.

7 key advantages of access aids for shafts

Choosing the right access aid determines how safely, efficiently, and durably a shaft can be operated. The advantages of high-quality systems are therefore clear.

1. Increased occupational safety

High-quality access aids enable controlled and safe ascent and descent, thereby reducing the risk of falls and missteps in the long term.

2. Reduced accident and liability risk

Standard-compliant design and permanent integration into the structure minimize the risk of accidents and significantly reduce legal risks for operators.

3. More efficient maintenance and inspection work

Permanently installed access solutions shorten working times and ensure clear, repeatable procedures for inspections and maintenance measures.

4. High durability

Robust materials and corrosion-protected surfaces ensure a long service life even under demanding environmental conditions.

5. Low maintenance requirements

Permanent structures reduce maintenance requirements and contribute to low operating and follow-up costs.

6. Simplified planning and approval

Standard-compliant systems facilitate integration into planning processes, tenders, and the subsequent approval of construction projects.

7. Long-term investment security

Reliable and tested access aids ensure the long-term operation of shafts and create planning security for operators and municipalities.

What to look for when selecting suitable access aids

Several factors play a role in selecting the right access aid. The shaft depth, diameter, and frequency of use are decisive. Environmental conditions, such as humidity or chemical exposure, also influence the choice of material.

Equally important are applicable standards, guidelines, and safety requirements. Professional planning ensures that the access aid and fall protection work together optimally and meet the requirements in the long term.

Implementing access aids for shafts with Infrastep

Infrastep develops and manufactures access aids for shafts that combine safety, durability, and practicality. Whether cast iron manhole steps, manhole steps, or pocket manhole steps: the solutions are tailored to different requirements and can be integrated into both standard and special applications.

You benefit from technical advice, high manufacturing quality, and close coordination with construction companies, municipalities, and manufacturers. This results in access solutions that not only comply with standards but also support the safe operation of shafts in the long term. Feel free to contact us via our contact form, and we will advise you personally and on a project-specific basis.