GB2574069A - Manhole access - Google Patents

Abstract

A manhole system having a manhole (101, Figure 8) and a device 901 for preventing unauthorised access into the manhole (101, Figure 8). The device 901 is preferably positioned between a manhole shaft (108, Figure 6) and a manhole cover (112, Figure 1) and has at least one support bracket 902,903 defining an open space 904 and a grating 905 that prevents access through the open space 904. The device 901 also includes at least one linking arm 1001,1002 that extends from the grating 905 at a first end and is pivotably attached to the at least one support bracket 902,903 at a second end. The grating 905 is pivotable in a direction away from the open space 904 to allow access to the open space 904 and the manhole (101, Figure 8). The linking arm 1001,1002 preferably has two portions allowing the grating 905 to rest on an external surface level (802, Figure 8) adjacent the manhole (101, Figure 8). The grating 905 is preferably domed and the device 901 may have a locking mechanism. There is also a device for preventing unauthorised access into a manhole and a method of constructing a manhole disclosed.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application represents the first application for a patent directed towards the invention and the subject matter.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a manhole system comprising a manhole and a device for preventing unauthorised access into said manhole, a device for preventing unauthorised access into a manhole, and a method of constructing a manhole.

Manholes are well known in the art as providing an opening from a surface level into underground vaults which comprise sewers, pipelines or other utilities or structures. Manholes are referred to throughout this specification as including the opening of the hole which provides access, as well as the shaft which leads down to the underground vault. Manholes are also alternatively known as inspection chambers, utility holes, cable chambers, maintenance holes, access chambers or sewer holes.

Manholes are typically covered by manhole covers, which are fitted across the top of the opening of the manhole to block the entrance and to prevent access into the manhole. Often, manhole covers are not fixed in place and are generally solid so as to prevent items falling through. In storm conditions, pipelines beneath the manhole can carry a large volume of water at increased pressure. This can then lead to a dislodging of the cover leaving an open hole. The open hole creates a problem in which unsuspecting pedestrians may fall into, leading to injury or death.

A further problem is that manholes are subject to legislation which defines specific parameters to permit a given access into the manhole, meaning that adding additional features to current structures is difficult.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a manhole system comprising a manhole and a device for preventing unauthorised access into said manhole, said device comprising: at least one support bracket defining an open space; a grating configured to prevent access through said open space and into said manhole; and at least one linking arm extending from said grating at a first end and pivotably attached to said at least one said support bracket at a second end, such that said grating is pivotable in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space and said manhole.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for preventing unauthorised access into a manhole, comprising: at least one support bracket defining an open space; a grating configured to prevent access through said open space; and at least one linking arm extending from said grating at a first end and pivotably attached to said at least one said support bracket at a second end, such that said grating is pivotable in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of constructing a manhole, comprising the steps of: obtaining a device having at least one support bracket defining an open space, a grating and at least one linking arm extending from said grating and pivotably attached to said at least one support bracket; positioning said at least one support bracket onto a first part of a manhole; adding a second part of said manhole around said at least one support bracket such that said at least one support bracket is secured within said manhole; and moving said grating in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space and said manhole.

BREIF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 shows a typical manhole arrangement;

Figure 2 shows a device for preventing access into a manhole in a closed configuration;

Figure 3 shows the device of Figure 2 in an open configuration;

Figure 4 shows the device of Figure 2 in a partial cross sectional diagrammatic view when fitted to a manhole;

Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 2 when fitted into manhole in a closed configuration;

Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 2 when fitted into manhole in an open configuration;

Figure 7 shows the device fitted to a manhole liner;

Figure 8 shows the device in use whereby a manhole cover has been displaced from a manhole;

Figure 9 shows an alternative device for preventing unauthorised access into manhole in a closed configuration;

Figure 10 shows the alternative device in an open configuration;

Figure 11 shows the alternative device as fitted into a manhole in a closed configuration;

Figure 12 shows the alternative device as fitted into a manhole in an open configuration; and

Figure 13 shows a side view of the alternative device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1

A typical manhole arrangement in accordance with known structures is shown with respect to Figure 1. Manhole 101 provides an opening 102 from surface level 103 into an underground vault 104. In this illustrated example, underground vault 104 comprises a pipeline 105 which is fitted inside a concrete base 106 underneath surface level 103. It is appreciated that manhole arrangements of this type may include alternatives to pipelines, for example other utilities and structures including cabling or wiring.

Manhole 101 typically comprises a plurality of manhole rings 107 which are stacked to a desired height such that surface level 103 is defined in line with any landscaping requirements. Manhole rings typically comprise large hollow cylindrical concrete structures which are stackable to create the manhole shaft 108. While the example illustrates three manhole rings, any number of manhole rings may be used to achieve a suitable surface height 109.

Manhole 101 further includes an access ladder 110 such that authorised operatives are permitted to access underground vault 104 through opening 102. In order to define opening 102, a plurality of seating rings, such as seating ring 111, are positioned around opening 102. Each seating ring comprises a concrete plate having a central hole which is dimensioned in line with the requirements for opening 102. In alternative embodiments, instead of seating rings, opening 102 is defined by an alternative solution, such as a plurality of bricks and concrete or other solid structure. Once, constructed, opening 102 is covered by a conventional manhole cover 112.

As indicated previously, in storm conditions, manhole cover 112 can become dislodged from its position, particularly in cases where there is a large amount of floodwater in underground vault 104 and manhole shaft 108. When this occurs, opening 102 becomes exposed and can be hazardous for passing pedestrians on the surface level 103. Given that flooding is likely present at surface level 103, opening 102 may also be hidden from sight which can lead to people falling in and incurring serious injuries.

In alternative scenarios, the manhole cover can be removed such that unauthorised persons can attempt to gain access to the manhole shaft or underground vault.

Figure 2

A device for preventing unauthorised access into manhole 101 is shown in Figure 2. Device 201 is shown in isolation in a closed configuration. In this closed configuration, once fitted to manhole 101, access into manhole 101 would be prevented.

Device 201 comprises at least one support bracket, and, in this embodiment, comprises two support brackets 202 and 203. Support brackets 202 and 203 define an open space 204 therebetween which, when in the open configuration and fitted to manhole 101, permits access into the manhole via open space 204.

Device 201 further comprises grating 205 which extends across open space 204 so as to prevent access through open space 204 in use. Grating 205 comprises a plurality of vertical cross members arranged in a first direction, such as cross member 206, and a second plurality of horizontal cross members arranged in a second direction, such as cross member 207. Each plurality of cross members are arranged such to form a grid whereby each connecting cross member defines a grate opening, for example grate opening 208. This arrangement ensures that, in the example whereby a manhole has been subjected to flooding, floodwater is free to flow through the grating so as to avoid undesirable pressure build up. Each grate opening is suitably sized such that a pedestrian’s foot would not fall through any of the grate openings, should they come into contact with device 201 when fitted into the manhole.

In the embodiment, grating 205 comprises a substantially domeshaped profile 209 whereby the vertical cross members are arched to define the dome-shaped profile. It is noted that the dome-shaped profile comprises a relatively flat top surface to the grating such that grating 205 is able to support a pedestrian without causing further injury.

Device 201 comprises support brackets 202 and 203, which in the embodiment are substantially similar. Referring specifically to support bracket 202, support bracket 202 comprises a support plate 210 and a support bar 211 attached thereto. In this embodiment, support bracket 202 comprises two support plates; however, it is appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any number of support plates may be present depending on requirements. Support plate 210 comprises an aperture 212 which is configured to receive a support block. Such a support block may be a concrete block which could be utilised to hold device 201 in position in the manhole. Support plate 210 further comprises an attachment hole 213 which is configured to receive a fastener. Support plate 210 also has a serrated edge 214 along two sides of each support plate. The serrated edge is configured to provide an increased surface area such that, when surrounded by concrete or similar, the serrated edge assists in holding device 201 in position.

Support bar 211 further comprises a hole 215, or a plurality of holes, which are configured to receive a locking mechanism which can be utilised to maintain device 201 in the closed configuration shown in Figure 2. The locking mechanism may be, for example, a lockable clamp or padlock or similar, which would be put in place by the appropriate utility companies. Thus, unauthorised access could be prevented by this means once device 201 is in place.

Grating 205 is pivotably attached to support brackets 202 and 203 such that grating 205 can be moved from the closed configuration of Figure 2 to the open configuration of Figure 3 and vice versa.

Figure 3

Device 201 is shown in isolation in the open configuration in Figure 3. In this illustrated embodiment, grating 205 is in a fully open configuration, although it is appreciated that grating 205 may be positioned at any angle between the fully closed configuration of Figure 2 and the fully open configuration of Figure 3.

Device 201 comprises at least one linking arm, and in this embodiment, two linking arms 301 and 302. Each of these linking arms extends from grating 205 and is pivotably attached to the support bars of support brackets 202 and 203. Pivots 303 and 304 are positioned at one end of each respective support bar and comprise a bolt through each support bar, although other variations on pivots may be used. For example, pivot 304 is positioned at end 305 of support bar 211. These pivots allow grating 205 to be pivotable in a direction away from open space 204 such that, in use, open space can be utilised to allow access to a manhole 101.

It is appreciated that, in the embodiment, two linking arms are utilised and each provides a suitable pivot. In an alternative embodiment, a single linking arm is present which provides a single pivot. In further embodiments, more than two linking arms are present and each provides a pivot to enable grating 205 to move from the open configuration to the closed configuration as required.

Device 201 may be manufactured from any suitable durable material such as galvanised steel, stainless steel, plastic, other metals or glass fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP). It is appreciated that any other suitable materials may be utilised.

Figure 4

Device 201 is shown in a partial cross sectional diagrammatic view when fitted to a manhole, such as the arrangement of manhole 101 in Figure

1.

In the embodiment, during construction of manhole 101 a plurality of manhole rings 107 are stacked together to an appropriate height to provide a surface at a required height. Each manhole ring 107 includes a cavity which defines a manhole shaft 108. Once the appropriate height has been reached, the upper manhole ring provides opening 102 which permits access into manhole 101.

Conventionally, further construction of the manhole involves stacking a plurality of seating rings 111 around opening 102 to complete manhole 101. When utilising device 201 in accordance with the present invention, device 201 is positioned onto part of the manhole ring so that grating 205 rests above opening 102. Once in position over opening 102, a second part of the manhole construction, such as seating rings 111, can be placed over the top of each of the supporting brackets 202 and 203 which helps in securing device 201 into position. In alternative embodiments, the manhole construction comprises bricks as an alternative to seating rings, and these bricks, along with appropriate concrete and/or mortar can be alternatively utilised to secure device 201 in position.

As previously explained, support bracket 202 includes an aperture 212 which is configured to receive a support block. In a further embodiment, therefore, a support block is provided which is added to the manhole 101 such that the support bracket is secured in the manhole.

Once the seating rings, bricks, concrete or similar have been stacked around opening 102, with device 201 in position, a manhole cover can be positioned above device 201 so as to close off the manhole in a conventional manner. In this way, device 201 fits inside manhole 101 at a distance beneath a typical manhole cover and can be utilised to prevent access as needed.

Figure 5

A cross-sectional view of device 201 when fitted into manhole 101 is shown in Figure 5. Device 201 is secured into position extending across opening 102. Device 201 is positioned between manhole shaft 108 and manhole cover 112.

When secured in position, device 201 is able to move between the closed configuration of Figure 5 and an open configuration shown in Figure 6, each which correspond to Figures 2 and 3 respectively. As previously explained, in the closed configuration, device 201 may include a locking mechanism which maintains device 201 in the closed configuration to prevent unauthorised access into manhole shaft 108, even if manhole cover 112 has been removed or dislodged.

As can be seen in Figure 5, when in position in manhole 101, device 201 extends across opening 102. A cavity 501 is present at one side of the shaft above the opening 102 and this cavity is configured to receive the dome-shaped profile 209 of device 201 when device 201 is in the open configuration.

Thus, when manhole cover 112 is removed, device 201 can be pivoted by means of the pivots provided, and grating 205 can reside in cavity 501 while device 201 remains in the open configuration, as will be illustrated in Figure 6.

Figure 6

A further cross-sectional view of device 201 when fitted to manhole

101 is shown in Figure 6. Grating 205 has been pivoted away from opening

102 and open space 204 into the open configuration.

In the embodiment, grating 205 is positioned substantially vertically in orientation such that open space 204 and opening 102 are accessible such that an authorised operative or similar can enter manhole 101 and manhole shaft 108. When positioned vertically in this manner, grating 205 resides in cavity 501. This allows an operative to enter manhole 101 from the opposing side of the manhole and reach access ladder 110 in a conventional manner.

It is observed with reference to Figures 5 and 6 that the construction of device 201 is such that device 201 can be fitted into a manhole with minimum restrictions for authorised operatives entering and exiting a manhole. Under industry requirements for construction of manholes in the United Kingdom, The Sewers for Adoption guidance requires a minimum opening of six hundred millimetres (600mm) to enable operatives to enter and exit a manhole without undue restrictions. Thus, it is important that device 201 takes up a minimum amount of space inside a manhole so that this opening size can be maintained so that access requirements are met. In this way, use of cavity 501 provides a compact arrangement that enables requirements to be met adequately.

It is appreciated that, in the embodiment described, device 201 is configured for a substantially square opening and manhole. In alternative embodiments, the device can be suitably designed for cylindrical or circular manholes as appropriate. It is further appreciated that the invention is not intended to be limited to square, rectangular or circular manholes and the device can be adapted accordingly.

Figure 7

Device 201 is also configured to be used with a manhole device 701 which provides an indicator of the manhole during construction and which further provides a liner once constructions has been completed.

Device 201 is shown in diagrammatic form without the surrounding constructed surface and seating rings, with manhole device 701 attached thereto by means of support brackets 202 and 203. Manhole device 701 includes a plurality of slots 702 which are configured to receive device 201. Thus, supporting brackets 202 and 203 can be pushed through slots 702 to form a complete unit. Manhole device 701 can further provide support for device 201 and securement in manhole 101.

Manhole device 701 can be any suitable device which provides lining capabilities to manhole 101. An example of a manhole device is illustrated in the Applicant’s co-pending patent application (2962-P101-GB; publication number to be added when available).

Figure 8

Device 201 is shown in use in Figure 8, whereby a manhole cover has been displaced from a manhole 101. An pedestrian 801 has inadvertently fallen from ground surface level 802 into exposed manhole 101 and towards opening 102. However, given the presence of device 201, pedestrian 801 is now supported by device 201 instead of falling into opening 102 and causing injury.

Thus, on recovery, pedestrian 801 can step out from manhole 101 and back onto surface level 802 without harm. It is noted that the distance between the top of device 201 and surface level 802 is a small distance equivalent to a typical step. In this way, pedestrian 801 does not experience a heavy fall, and is also able to exit the manhole without assistance.

Figure 9

An alternative device for preventing unauthorised access into manhole 101 is shown in Figure 9. Device 901 is configured to function in a substantially similar manner to device 201 in that it is capable of preventing unauthorised access into manhole 101 and also prevents pedestrians from falling into the manhole should the manhole cover become displaced or dislodged.

Device 901 is shown in isolation in a closed configuration. In this closed configuration, once fitted to manhole 101, access into manhole 101 would be prevented.

Device 901 comprises at least one support bracket, and, in this embodiment, comprises two support brackets 902 and 903. Support brackets 902 and 903 define an open space 904 therebetween which, when in the open configuration and fitted to manhole 101, permits access into the manhole via open space 904.

Device 901 further comprises grating 905 which extends across open space 904 so as to prevent access through open space 904 in use. Grating 905 comprises a plurality of vertical cross members arranged in a first direction across open space 904. As previously, the vertical cross members are arranged such that, in the example whereby a manhole has been subjected to flooding, floodwater is free to flow through the grating so as to avoid undesirable pressure build up. At the same time, the cross members are positioned such that a pedestrian cannot fall through the grating should they come into contact with the device when it is fitted into the manhole. It is appreciated that an arrangement comprising further cross members may be utilised such that a grid arrangement may be formed. The cross members may also extend in a horizontal direction as opposed to a vertical direction as required.

Device 901 comprises support brackets 902 and 903, which in the embodiment are substantially similar. Referring specifically to support bracket 902, support bracket 902 comprises a support plate 906 and a support bar 907 attached thereto. In this embodiment, support bracket 902 comprises a single support plate; however, it is appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any number of support plates may be present depending on requirements.

Support plate 906 comprises an aperture 908 which is configured to receive a support block. Such a support block may be a concrete block which could be utilised to hold device 901 in position in the manhole. In the embodiment, a further two substantially similar apertures are also provided which are spaced along the length of support plate 906 at regular intervals. This permits a plurality of support blocks to be used as necessary. It is appreciated that any number of apertures may be utilised for this purpose.

Support plate 906 further comprises a serrated edge 909 along end edges 910 and 911 of the support plate. As with device 201, the serrated edge is configured to provide an increased surface area such that, when surrounded by concrete or similar, the serrated edge assists in holding device 901 in position.

Support bar 907 further comprises a hole 912, or alternatively a plurality of holes, which are configured to receive a locking mechanism which can be utilised to maintain device 901 in the closed configuration shown in

Figure 9. The locking mechanism may be, for example, a lockable clamp or padlock or similar, which would be put in place by the appropriate utility companies. Thus, unauthorised access could be prevented by this means once device 901 is in place.

Grating 905 is pivotably attached to support brackets 902 and 903 such that grating 905 can be moved from the closed configuration of Figure 9 to the open configuration of Figure 10 and vice versa.

Figure 10

Device 901 is shown in isolation in an open configuration in Figure 10.

Device 901 comprises at least one linking arm, and in this embodiment, two linking arms 1001 and 1002. Each of these linking arms extends from grating 905 and is pivotably attached to the support bars 907 and 1003 of support brackets 902 and 903. For example, pivot 1004 is positioned at one end of support bar 1003 and comprises a bolt through support bar 1003, although other variations on pivots may be used. A similar arrangement is present in relation to linking arm 1002 and support bar 907. The pivots allow grating 905 to be pivotable in a direction away from open space 904 such that, in use, open space can be utilised to allow access to a manhole 101 in a substantially similar manner to the embodiment of Figure

2.

It is appreciated that, in the embodiment, two linking arms are utilised and each provides a suitable pivot. In an alternative embodiment, a single linking arm is present which provides a single pivot. In further embodiments, more than two linking arms are present and each provides a pivot to enable grating 905 to move from the open configuration to the closed configuration as required.

Linking arms 1001 and 1002 are substantially similar. Considering linking arm 1002, linking arm 1002 comprises a first portion 1005 which extends from grating 905 and a second portion 1006 which extends from first portion 1005 and which is pivotably attached to support bracket 902. In the embodiment, first portion 1005 and second portion 1006 are connected at an obtuse angle 1007 to each other. This particular arrangement of linking arm permits the device 901 to be utilised in previously constructed manholes as will be described further in respect of Figures 11 and 12.

In the embodiment, support bar 1003 (and corresponding support bar 907) comprises an attachment hole 1008. This particular attachment hole is configured to allow a fastener to be inserted such that the device 901 can be attached to the inside of a manhole surface to secure device 901 into position. A substantially similar hole is provided on support bar 907 for a substantially similar purpose.

For the purposes of maintaining device 901 in the closed configuration of Figure 10, holes 912 and 1009, and corresponding indentations 1010 and 1011 are configured to allow a locking mechanism to be attached to device 901. When opening is required by authorised operatives, any such locking mechanisms can be unlocked and device 901 moved to the open configuration of Figure 10.

Figure 11

Device 901 is shown in Figure 11 fitted into a manhole in accordance with the present invention. Device 901 is illustrated in the closed configuration of Figure 9.

The arrangement of device 901 is such that it is designed to be fitted to prior constructed manhole structures whereby it is not feasible to restructure the manhole so as to place the device underneath the surface. In order for the device to function, it is still required to be placed underneath a manhole cover but must be placed onto an upper surface rather than being incorporated into the structure itself. Furthermore, prior constructed manholes may have been designed to meet legislation requirements relating to minimum opening for access, and, in this case, use of device 201 is not feasible as the access space would be reduced. Thus, in construction, device 901 is able to be placed on upper surface 1101 of existing manhole 1102. Once positioned, a manhole cover frame 1103 is utilised and placed on top of device 901, such that manhole cover frame 1103 is able to support a suitable manhole cover in line with conventional manhole structures. In this way, manhole cover is positioned directly above device 901. Further concrete or asphalt can be deposited around manhole cover frame 1103 and over upper surface 1101 to ensure the surface meets any requirements, for example, as a road or pavement.

Figure 12

When access is required into manhole 1102, grating 905 of device 901 can be lifted and consequently pivoted away from open space 904 and opening 1201 to allow access into manhole 1102. Due to the nature of linking arms 1001 and 1002, grating 905 is able to fall back beyond opening 1201 such that it rests onto the external surface level adjacent to manhole 1102.

In an embodiment, device 901 comprises a handle which enables grating 905 to be lifted out of the manhole opening 1201 so that it can be placed external to the manhole. In this way, the previously defined access size is retained, with device 901 providing no restriction to access into the manhole when in the open configuration such that authorised individuals can access the manhole.

Figure 13

Figure 13 shows a side view of device 901 illustrating the relative alignment of the device 901 with surface. Device 901 is shown in the closed configuration. When in the closed configuration, linking arm 1001 protrudes below grating 905 which is positioned beneath a manhole cover when the manhole cover is in place. When the manhole cover is displaced or dislodged, grating 905 presents a surface 1301 onto which a pedestrian can be supported in a substantially similar manner to device 201 as illustrated in respect of Figure 8.

Claims (20)

The invention claimed is:

1. A manhole system comprising a manhole and a device for preventing unauthorised access into said manhole, said device comprising:

at least one support bracket defining an open space;

a grating configured to prevent access through said open space and into said manhole; and at least one linking arm extending from said grating at a first end and pivotably attached to said at least one said support bracket at a second end, such that said grating is pivotable in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space and said manhole.

2. A manhole system according to claim 1, wherein said manhole comprises a manhole shaft and a manhole cover and said device is positioned between said manhole shaft and said manhole cover.

3. A manhole system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said device is configured to move between an open configuration which permits access into said manhole and a closed configuration in which access into said manhole is prevented by means of said grating.

4. A manhole system according to claim 3, wherein said device comprises a locking mechanism configured to maintain said device in said closed configuration or said open configuration.

5. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one support bracket comprises an aperture configured to receive a support block.

6. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one support bracket comprises at least one attachment hole configured to receive a fastener.

7. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one support bracket comprises a serrated edge.

8. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one support bracket comprises a support plate and a support bar attached thereto.

9. A manhole system according to claim 10, wherein said at least one linking arm is pivotably attached to said support bar.

10. A manhole system according to claim 8 when dependent on claim 4, wherein said support bar comprises a hole configured to receive said locking mechanism.

11. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said device comprises a first support bracket and a second support bracket;

a first linking arm pivotably attached to said first support bracket; and a second linking arm pivotably attached to said second support bracket.

12. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said grating comprises a dome-shaped profile.

13. A manhole system according to claim 12 when dependent on claim 3, wherein said dome-shaped profile is configured to reside in a cavity when said device is in said open configuration.

14. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one linking arm comprises a first portion extending from said grating and a second portion extending from said first portion and pivotably attached to said support bracket.

15. A manhole system according to claim 14 when dependent on claim 3, wherein when in said open configuration, said at least one linking arm allows said grating to rest on an external surface level adjacent said manhole.

16. A manhole system according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein said first portion and said second portion are connected at an obtuse angle to each other.

17. A manhole system according to any preceding claim, wherein said device comprises a handle.

18. A device for preventing unauthorised access into a manhole, comprising:

at least one support bracket defining an open space;

a grating configured to prevent access through said open space; and at least one linking arm extending from said grating at a first end and pivotably attached to said at least one said support bracket at a second end, such that said grating is pivotable in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space.

19. A method of constructing a manhole, comprising the steps of: obtaining a device having at least one support bracket defining an open space, a grating and at least one linking arm extending from said grating and pivotably attached to said at least one support bracket;

positioning said at least one support bracket onto a first part of a manhole;

adding a second part of said manhole around said at least one support bracket such that said at least one support bracket is secured within said manhole; and

5 moving said grating in a direction away from said open space to allow access to said open space and said manhole.

20. A method of constructing a manhole according to claim 19, further comprising the step of: positioning a manhole cover above said 10 device.