The time and effort associated with the design, planning and installation of a new pit in a workshop can seem like a daunting task. Gemco talks to CVW about its solution, designed to make that process easier and more time efficient.
Workshop equipment provider, Gemco, designs and manufactures pre-fabricated steel pits for both workshop service and test lane (DVSA ATF specification) applications. The company offers a detailed system with a bespoke pit tailored to the needs of the specific workshop.
Pit design
Mike Ward, Contruction Manager at Gemco, comments on the advantages that the company can offer by being on both the manufacturing and installation side of the business, he says, “The manufacturing process is carried out at our Mansfield manufacturing plant and each pit undergoes stringent quality checks and is certified before delivery.”
“Because we are a manufacturer, we have the ability to be flexible and to produce a pit to your exact specifications and requirements. In addition, we can incorporate installation frames for our ATF test equipment (brake testers and shaker plates/play detectors) at the factory, which means the installation of your pit is perfect.
“Our design team has the knowledge and tools to design a solution which is fit for purpose.”
Load bearing calculations and site conditions are always taken into account, ensuring the product supplied is to exacting standards.
All pits are fitted with low voltage, long life, 10 year guarantee LED lighting kits andjacking beam rails as standard.
“We offer a complete, comprehensive service which means that we design, manufacture, deliver and install,” adds Mike.
“Furthermore, with our own team of civil engineers we can also carry out the necessary civil works on site ready for delivery of your new pit. Of course, where you are using your own contractor, full technical civil layouts and drawings are supplied at no extra cost.
“Once your pit is in the ground, we are able to offer a range of superior floor finishing services, such as tiling and floor painting with painted hazard/compulsory floor markings.”
Got it covered
Additionally, Gemco offers a sliding pit cover safety system, suitable for all types of pits. In addition to maximising workshop floor space, the system is designed to reduce the risk of accidents and falls, and can be custom-made for new and existing installations. The pit covers are available as either manual or
pneumatic operated covers.
“After a site survey, we would advise whether the safety cover could be fitted quickly and easily, and if it is possible to install without additional ground works.”
Installation takes less than a day if no building works are required, and covers are available for new or existing pits.
Features of the cover system include load bearing staves that are 1500kg/m² certified and produced with extruded aluminium, which is anodised for quality and durability, and steel mesh chains and bearings to operate movement of the cover system.
The system is available as one single piece or as a tandem installation. Electricity is not used on the air-operated model, making it suitable for petroleum regulation workshops, and functions are carried out on the control box. Separate pit bridges are also available.
