What is the design life of steps, ladders and other components? Will they need to be replaced during the service life of the chamber? Will retro-fitted products last as long as those used in the initial build?

Precast manholes for the UK market have a design life in excess of 100 years in normal conditions of use. In such conditions and when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, Caswick standard steps and ladders are expected to perform their original design function for a similar period. The use of products that do not comply with the minimum requirements of BS EN 13101 (Steps) and BS EN14936 (Ladders) may not be expected to last as long and are more likely to require replacing during the service life of the manhole. Products that only marginally conform with the minimum requirements of BS EN13101 and BS EN14396 may also have a shorter life expectancy compared with standard Caswick steps and ladders.