Major California utilities company switches from steel road plates

A major California utilities company was facing several challenges in their trench covering process, which involved using steel or plywood boards. That is where Oxford Plastics came in - we’re proud to have worked with the Utilities Company to help them make the switch to the LowPro 15/10. With its strength, durability, and light weight, the LowPro 15/10 is a game changer in the industry, and this case study provides a compelling example of how it can help businesses meet their goals more efficiently and effectively.

Another challenge was poor durability. Plywood boards have a low level of durability compared to composite road plates like the LowPro 15/10. They can easily become damaged and warped, especially when exposed to the elements. This required the company to frequently replace the boards, which added to their maintenance costs.

The company also faced safety concerns due to damaged plywood boards and slippery steel plates, which posed a hazard to workers and pedestrians. This increased the risk of workplace injury and accidents, which the company wanted to avoid.

Finally, there were environmental concerns related to the use of plywood boards and steel plates. The utilities company was previously using lots of energy. This is because heavy machinery was needed to lift, move and fix the plates in place. By making the switch to the LowPro 15/10 the company was able to save energy. The LowPro system can be lifted and installed by hand. This resulted in the use of smaller vehicles to transport the road plates, reducing fuel consumption. The durability of the LowPro 15/10 system means it will last significantly longer than plywood boards and steel plates.

The negative traits of plywood boards and steel road plates being cold patched for utility work highlights the need for alternative solutions, such as the LowPro 15/10.

To address these challenges, the company decided to switch to the LowPro 15/10 composite road plate system. The System is fully ADA compliant, eliminating the need for cold patching. This saved the company time and money on materials and labor, as they no longer had to perform the cold patching process.

The composite material used in the LowPro 15/10 is much more durable than traditional steel and plywood boards. The LowPro 15/10 is stronger and more resistant to wear, which reduces maintenance costs. Additionally, the LowPro 15/10 is light and easy to handle in comparison to steel road plates and plywood boards. The company also used linkable ramps to reduce the trip hazards associated with traditional trench covers.

Since August 2022, the company has been using the System, replacing plywood boards and steel plates. This change has had a massive impact on their efficiency and ability to achieve ADA compliance with ease. The LowPro 15/10 has not only improved their trench covering process but also reduced their costs and increased safety.

Ready to join other businesses taking advantage of composite road plates? Contact our helpful team today, or read more of our case studies here.