Kansas City upgrades to ERGO® SELFLEVEL® access assemblies for smooth streets, ergonomics, and worker safety.

The City of Kansas City upgraded its streetscapes to the next level when it installed the ERGO® SELFLEVEL® access assembly—delivering twice the innovation with the combination of the SELFLEVEL two-part frame with the ERGO hinged manhole cover. This design ensures smooth streets while also keeping worker safety and ergonomics in mind.

Embracing Innovative Solutions

When the City Water Department (KC Water) began a smooth streets initiative back in 2015, they wanted to win the battle municipalities often face of sinking manhole covers that cause sunk and broken roads. The SELFLEVEL access assembly proved to be the perfect solution. The SELFLEVEL by EJ is an engineered two-frame system that keeps manhole covers flush with the road surface. The self-leveling frame keeps the assembly centered over the manhole, while the unattached upper frame is free to rise and fall with the pavement.

They also found success using the ERGO access assembly throughout the city. This hinged manhole cover and frame assembly keeps worker safety in mind by being ergonomic, while keeping the manhole cover attached. It features safe one-worker operation and a lock for security.

Unique Decorative Streetscapes

A few years later, they came across a special use application where a manhole was located in a decorative streetscape and they didn’t want the surrounding area to deteriorate.  The city was also worried about potential damage to the surrounding area that could be caused if a traditional manhole cover was dragged on and off the frame.

Previous Next

Finding the Perfect Solution

The City contacted EJ once again to see what solution would work for them and learned about the ERGO SELFLEVEL. The ERGO SELFLEVEL access assembly combines the ergonomic and security benefits of the hinged cover with the roadway leveling benefits of the SELFLEVEL frame. In addition to the pavement lasting longer, motorists enjoy smoother and safer streets.

After having success with both the ERGO and SELFLEVEL assembly, they knew the combination product would be a perfect fit for their decorative streetscape applications.

Front View

Showing range of motion of up to a 5° tip angle while still moving with the surface.

Side View

Showing travel of upper frame. Once installed, the unit will continue to move with the road surface.

Long-Lasting Success

KC Water has found these frames and covers to be the best solution for their decorative streetscape areas. They’re confident they’ll maintain smooth streets for years to come. They’re also easy to install, open, and close.

Incorporating a Custom Logo Cover

Since the city was so pleased with the product performance, they adopted the ERGO SELFLEVEL access solution into their lineup of standard products in their specification. They also partnered with EJ to create custom logo covers for their ERGO SELFLEVEL access assembly going forward!

Operation Demonstration

Learn More

Interested in the ERGO SELFLEVEL access solution? Learn more about each product line on our ERGO and SELFLEVEL product briefs.

Ready to start your next project? Contact us today or schedule a Lunch and Learn.