To all the construction workers, utility crews, sewer inspectors, and others who frequently open manholes or inspection covers: what are some of your most frustrating or unusual experiences with a stuck cover?
To all the construction workers, utility crews, sewer inspectors, and others who frequently open manholes or inspection covers: what are some of your most frustrating or unusual experiences with a stuck cover?
Dealing with stuck manhole or inspection covers can definitely lead to some interesting stories! One of the most frustrating experiences I’ve had was during a heatwave when we were trying to open a particularly stubborn cover. It was so hot that the asphalt around it had softened and stuck to the edges, making it nearly impossible to lift.
After several tries with a pry bar, we enlisted the help of a few more crew members. Just as we finally managed to pop it open, we discovered a swarm of bees had made a nest underneath! It turned into a chaotic scene as everyone scrambled to back away, and we ended up having to call in a pest control team before we could safely proceed with our work. It’s definitely a reminder that you never know what’s lurking beneath the surface!