A new range of fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) composite access covers has been developed by Fibrelite.

The new covers, an industry-first, will replace traditional heavy concrete infill covers.

The FRP range includes D400, E600 and F900 load ratings and is designed to be installed into existing frames.

The new range means it is now possible to upgrade to modern composite materials simply and effectively, without the costs and disruption associated with breaking concrete to replace with new frames.

Lightweight and Strong – Safe Manual Handling

David Holmes, Technical Director, explained: "Traditional concrete covers are extremely difficult to remove at the best of times but often require time-consuming and expensive specialist lifting equipment which can lead to manual handling problems and injury risk for operatives."


"Our new range of bespoke replacement composite covers offers the best strength to weight ratio in the industry, so while the covers easily achieve BS EN124 D400, E600 and F900 load ratings, their unique composite design means they can be very easily removed using a simple ergonomically-safe lifting handle."

Bespoke Composite Covers for Retro Fitting at Sewage Treatment Plant

One of the first beneficiaries of this new range was a sewage treatment plant run by a major British water company. For this project, Fibrelite designed bespoke trench covers which could be installed directly into the existing frame to replace the original heavy concrete-infilled cover. This was achieved by producing a "stepped" cover to fit the frame while maintaining the depth of cover required to meet the essential D400 load. This innovative design approach meant that there was no need to break out and replace the frame which reduced overall installation costs and allowed for a quicker and more convenient retro-fit.

Key Benefits to Fitting Fibrelite

David Holmes concluded: "Composite materials are increasingly popular across a range of industries and we are now able to offer an innovative retro-fit solution for quite complex projects across all load ratings from A15 to F900 and eliminate common – and often quite serious - health and safety issues associated with manual handling."