

Ancala Water Services, a prominent water and wastewater service provider, approached Oxford Safety Components (OSC) with a crucial health and safety concern. They needed a solution for the hazardous open trenches encountered during excavation, sewer works, and water treatment projects. OSC, renowned for its innovative products, proposed implementing the CoverSafe Trench system, specifically designed to address this issue.
Ancala Water Services manages water and wastewater operations across England and Wales, serving over 1000 sites. Their infrastructure includes boreholes, reservoirs, pumping stations, treatment facilities, distribution mains, oil and water interceptors, sewers, and meters.
Ancala Water Services recognised that open trenches posed a significant risk to their site workers' safety. To mitigate this problem, they sought a comprehensive solution that could provide stability, ease of inspection, and improved safety measures.

OSC's CoverSafe Trench, a modular matting system, was the ideal choice to address Ancala Water Services' concerns. The mats feature trellis components, allowing for easy inspection without the need to remove the mat itself. Moreover, each corner of the mat can be fixed down, ensuring enhanced stability during operations.
Impressed by the quality and stability of OSC's product, Ancala Water Services promptly deployed the CoverSafe Trench system to their operatives nationwide. A total of 60 mats were initially provided to facilitate their site workers' safety and efficiency.
The adoption of CoverSafe Trench by Ancala Water Services brought about several benefits, including:
- Improved worker safety by addressing the health and safety concerns associated with open trenches.
- Enhanced stability and durability of the excavation sites, creating a secure working environment.
- Easy inspection of ongoing work due to the unique trellis design of the mats.
- Flexibility and adaptability of the matting system to various types of excavation and sewer works.

The CoverSafe Trench is a fall-prevention system that provides temporary protection over holes, trenches, and openings in construction and utility work environments. Designed to enhance safety for workers, it acts as a platform to prevent falls and accidents. The trellis-style covering expands over the open trenches, creating a safe and secure barrier. Made with GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) material, the trench cover is durable and allows for easy installation and portability. It is particularly relevant for road work, maintenance companies, and utility services. With its ability to eliminate the risk of falls and provide a protective solution, the CoverSafe Trench is an essential safety measure for construction sites and work zones.
The collaboration between Ancala Water Services and Oxford Safety Components resulted in a successful implementation of the CoverSafe Trench system. This innovative solution provided Ancala Water Services with the necessary safety measures, stability, and ease of inspection for their excavation and sewer works projects. With the rollout of the CoverSafe Trench system nationwide, Ancala Water Services can ensure the safety and well-being of their operatives at all sites.
For more information or inquiries about OSC's products, please contact Fraz Rees, our dedicated salesperson.