Magnetic Manhole Lifters: A Safer Way to Lift Heavy Covers
- 12 hours ago
- 4 min read
Lifting manhole covers is one of those jobs that happens every day in the drainage and utilities industry, but is It is also one of those jobs that can put unnecessary strain on engineers if the right equipment is not being used.
That’s why magnetic manhole lifters are such a useful piece of kit. They are designed to make lifting, moving and repositioning covers safer, easier and more efficient.
Magnetic manhole lifters are widely used by large companies with multiple engineers, strict health and safety procedures, and a responsibility to supply staff with the right tools for safe manual handling. But they are not just for big, corporate teams.
For individual drainage contractors, owner-operators and smaller drainage companies, they are just as important. If you are regularly lifting covers on jetting jobs, CCTV surveys, inspections or emergency callouts, the right lifting tool can save time, reduce strain and make day-to-day work much easier.
At Jetter Conversions, we supply a range of magnetic manhole lifters and accessories designed to help engineers lift and move covers more safely, efficiently and professionally.
What Is a Magnetic Manhole Lifter?
A magnetic manhole lifter is a tool used to lift metal manhole covers, drain covers and inspection covers without relying only on traditional manhole keys.
The magnetic base attaches to the cover, allowing the operator to lift, pull or reposition it using a handle, lever or wheeled lifting system, depending on the model.
This makes it easier to open covers that are heavy, awkward, stuck or difficult to grip.
Why Are They So Useful?
Lifting manhole covers can involve bending, twisting and pulling from awkward positions. Over time, this can put strain on the back, shoulders, arms and hands.
A magnetic manhole lifter helps reduce that strain by giving operators a better, more controlled way to lift and move covers.
They can help with:
Reducing manual handling strain
Opening covers more quickly
Making repeated lifting easier
Improving site safety
Helping engineers look more professional
For large companies, they help support health and safety procedures. For smaller contractors, they are a practical piece of kit that can quickly become part of everyday van stock.
Who Should Be Using Them?
Magnetic manhole lifters are useful for anyone who regularly accesses drains, chambers or underground services.
They are ideal for:
Drainage companies
CCTV survey teams
Jetting engineers
Water companies
Utilities contractors
Facilities maintenance teams
Local authorities
Housing associations
Commercial maintenance teams
Independent drainage contractors
If you or your staff are regularly opening covers, proper lifting equipment should be part of the job.
The Different Types of Magnetic Manhole Lifters We Offer
At Jetter Conversions, we supply a range of magnetic manhole lifters and accessories for different types of work.
LB5 Ultra Light Magnetic Manhole Cover Lifter
The LB5 is a compact, lightweight lifter designed for medium-light lids. It is easy to carry, easy to store and a useful option for engineers who want a simple tool to keep in the van.
Best for: Everyday drainage work, lighter covers and smaller teams.
XT1 NANO Compact Folding Magnetic Manhole Cover Lifter
The XT1 NANO is a compact folding lifter designed for quick opening of medium and heavy metallic lids. It uses strong magnets and folds down for storage, making it ideal for engineers who need a capable tool without taking up too much space.
Best for: Drainage engineers, CCTV survey teams and regular site use.
CL10 Manhole Cover Lifter With Telescopic Handle
The CL10 is a versatile magnetic lifter with a telescopic and folding handle. It is suitable for lifting, moving and repositioning many manhole covers, drain covers, cast iron grates and other ferrous materials.
Best for: Contractors, utilities teams and companies needing a stronger all-round lifting solution.
APS90 Folding Manhole Cover Lifter Lever With Wheels
The APS90 is a heavy-duty wheeled folding lever designed for more demanding lifting jobs. It helps operators move heavier covers with less effort and is a popular option for larger teams with strict manual handling requirements.
Best for: Utility companies, larger drainage teams, civils contractors and heavy cover lifting.
BT95 Lifting Bar
The BT95 lifting bar works with the APS90 and mechanical locking clamps, giving engineers extra support where magnetic lifting alone is not suitable.
The clamps and hooks are useful for covers with slots, apertures or unusual lifting points, giving teams more flexibility on site.
Best for teams dealing with a wide range of cover types.
Choosing the Right Manhole Lifter
The right lifter depends on the type of work you do.
For smaller drainage companies and individual contractors, a compact option such as the LB5 or XT1 NANO may be ideal.
For larger companies, utilities teams or contractors regularly lifting heavier covers, a more complete setup such as the CL10, APS90, BT95 and clamps may be more suitable.
Either way, the aim is the same: make manhole cover lifting safer, easier and more efficient.
A Useful Tool for Every Drainage Van
Magnetic manhole lifters are simple, practical and effective.
They help reduce strain, save time and make everyday drainage work easier. Whether you manage a large team of engineers or work as an independent contractor, having the right lifting equipment in the van is a smart investment.
Click here to view our full range of magnetic manhole lifters online or contact us if you need help choosing the right option for you or your team.
