Focus on safety: manhole cover removal equipment

IPF continues to strengthen its safety culture with the recent purchase of new manhole cover removal systems—an innovation aimed at reducing strain, preventing injuries, and improving efficiency for teams working across campus.

Aaron Starmer, supervisor in the High Voltage Electrical Shop, along with High Voltage Electricians Jim Davis and Tom Follen, tested and introduced the new equipment designed to make manhole cover removal significantly safer. The system mounts directly into the rear receiver of an IPF vehicle and uses a combination of a crank mechanism and a high‑strength magnetic lifting device. Together, this system can lift up to 1,320 pounds (600 kg)—far more than the estimated 150–300 pounds of a typical manhole cover.

Once the magnetic system engages and the crank lifts the cover, the vehicle is simply pulled forward to move the cover away from the opening. This method dramatically reduces the physical strain on employees and minimizes the risks associated with bending, lifting, and handling heavy steel covers.

IPF purchased three units at approximately $2,000 each, representing a meaningful investment in both employee safety and long‑term injury prevention.

According to Travis Halsted, IPF’s Occupational Safety Compliance Officer, the benefits extend far beyond convenience.

“By purchasing these pieces of equipment, Aaron and his team have shown a strong proactive approach to the continual improvements of our safety culture. This device will assist in reducing exposures to strains, fractures and the general wear and tear on the body while removing or replacing the manhole covers,” said Halsted. “Thanks to Brian Powe, Aaron Starmer and the rest of their team for doing such a great job in making IPF a safer place to work.”

Innovations like this demonstrate IPF’s continued dedication to empowering teams with safer tools, smarter processes, and the support needed to protect their well‑being. Thank you to Aaron, Jim, Tom, Brian, and everyone involved for championing safety and driving improvements across our organization.