A manhole or an underground pipeline is nothing like an open tank or an elevated work surface. The confined space, reduced visibility, and limited access create an entirely different safety context, one in which the equipment and procedure must be tailored to the specific conditions of each underground network.
Why manholes and underground networks require a different approach
Manholes, stormwater pipes, sewage networks, and oil/water separators gradually accumulate sludge, sediment, and residues that restrict flow and can cause blockages or malfunctions. Access to these points is usually narrow and, in some cases, carried out under low-visibility conditions, which makes crew safety just as important as the effectiveness of the cleaning itself.
Preparation before entry
Before any vacuum cleaning work begins in a manhole or underground network, a series of preventive measures is followed:
Marking and cordoning off the work area with dedicated safety barriers
Gas/oil-free checks to confirm safe conditions before any entry
Use of appropriate protective equipment and, where required, supplied breathable air
How the cleaning is carried out
Cleaning with VACUUM is performed using specialized high-suction vehicles which, through flexible hoses, reach the interior of manholes and pipelines and remove sludge, sediment, and liquid residues without direct contact between personnel and the material. These vehicles are ADR-certified and have a suction capacity of up to 10,000 m³ per hour, ensuring that material handling complies with the safety standards such operations require.
Where the method is applied
The method is frequently used for:
Cleaning stormwater manholes and sewage networks
Draining oil/water separators and pipelines with accumulated sediment
Immediate response to blockages or emergency incidents in underground networks
STEPE’s experience in confined spaces
STEPE combines certified vacuum cleaning equipment with strict safety procedures for work in manholes, underground networks, and confined spaces, ensuring effective cleaning without exposing personnel to unnecessary risk. With experience in refineries, industrial facilities, and port installations, the company undertakes projects of every scale in demanding underground networks.