Five Key Tools for Municipal Water and Sewer Workers

Essential Municipal Water and Sewer Tools for Utility Workers

The job of a municipal water and sewer worker is not easy. Accessing those water and sewer systems takes a lot of grit and elbow grease. While these jobs are not the most glamorous or cushy, they provide a significant service to the community—without them, access to clean water would be limited. Getting dirty may be part of the job, but there are ways to reduce the dirt and the labor to make the job a little easier on the worker. The following are five key tools to help make a municipal water and sewer worker’s life a little less complicated.

Manhole Cover Lifter

Manhole covers are a necessary part of our water and sewage systems. These covers are designed to protect our water systems from access by unqualified individuals. These covers typically weigh between 250–300 lb, though heavy-duty versions can be significantly heavier (up to 900lbs). Without the proper tools, most manhole covers are not easily lifted by the average human being.

Companies like U.S. SAWS have manufactured manhole cover lifters to reduce the effort needed by municipal workers to lift manhole covers and access water systems for repairs and required maintenance. Because manhole covers vary in size and weight across the country, U.S. SAWS has developed different lifters for different needs.

For covers weighing 300 pounds or less, the Supreme Duty Collapsible Dolly Magnetic Lifter is ideal. Equipped with rubber wheels and a supreme duty magnet, it works for covers up to 36 inches in diameter and breaks down easily for quick storage.For covers up to 600 pounds, the Aluminum Heavy Duty Collapsible Dolly offers eight-inch hard wheels, a supreme duty magnet, and dual-position lifting points, making it perfect for uneven surfaces.

For the heaviest covers—around 900 pounds—the Curved Heavy Duty Magnetic Lifter uses a mega duty magnet and folds for easy transport and storage while protecting workers from back injury.

Valve Exerciser

One task of municipal water and sewer workers is maintaining consistent water flow and quality for the community. Regular maintenance is critical for valves, which regulate, direct, and control water. If valves become stiff or rigid, they must be exercised to maintain flexibility and prevent backflow issues. Many of these valves are in hard-to-reach locations.

U.S. SAWS offers battery-powered valve exercisers to make the job easier. The VEX-400 is a portable, heavy-duty valve exerciser powered by 18-volt batteries and a Metabo drill motor, designed to work in tight and awkward locations.

Utility Pump

Standing water is a constant challenge for municipal workers, often blocking access to underground structures such as meter pits and valve boxes. Removing this water quickly is essential.

U.S. SAWS supplies the Dewalt Battery Powered BP1520 Battery Pump, which features a PVC body and housing for rust and corrosion resistance. Powered by a 20V DeWalt or 18V Milwaukee battery, it fits into tight spaces and pumps up to 15 gallons a minute while weighing only six pounds.

Hand-Held Saws

Every municipal water worker’s toolbox needs a reliable saw. Pipe cutting in confined underground spaces can be challenging, especially when gas or electric saws aren’t practical due to space or fume concerns.

The HS-125 Hand-Held Air Powered Saw is lightweight, low-maintenance, and produces no harmful exhaust fumes. With a maximum cutting depth of five inches, it works for wet or dry cutting, making it versatile for a variety of materials and job conditions.

Belly Saws

For cutting pipes in wet conditions, a belly saw offers both safety and precision. The guard design covers the blade, and straps attach directly to the pipe to prevent kickback.

The U.S. SAWS Air Powered Belly Saw comes in sizes for pipes from 8 to 72 inches and handles PVC, ductile iron, cast iron, and other heavy-duty materials with its Tiger Tooth blade. Being air-powered, it’s safe for wet environments and eliminates harmful fumes.

How the Right Municipal Water and Sewer Tools Improve Safety and Efficiency

Proper municipal sewer tools reduce physical strain, improve job site safety, and increase efficiency. From magnetic lifters that save workers’ backs to air-powered saws that cut cleanly without fumes, the right equipment not only improves workflow but also extends the life of municipal infrastructure through better maintenance practices.

Where to Find Reliable Municipal Water and Sewer Tools

U.S. SAWS is a leader in the underground tool industry. Whether you need a manhole cover lifter, a valve exerciser, or a belly saw, we have the municipal water tools to make your work safer and more efficient. Contact us today to discuss updating your water and sewer toolbox.

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