BCA Design and Installation Requirements for Manhole Covers of Utility Services in New HDB Estates

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the BCA design and installation requirements for manhole covers of utility services in new HDB estates; and (b) whether noise reduction has been factored in for the design and installation of such covers on vehicular driveways with interlocking pavers.

Manhole covers within Housing and Development Board (HDB) precincts are generally for water, sewerage and telecommunications purposes, and are, hence, built in accordance with guidelines by the Public Utilities Board and the Infocomm Media Development Authority. As for manhole covers on public roads, these are built by the Utility Providers in accordance with guidelines by the Land Transport Authority.

The various guidelines ensure that manhole covers are structurally sound and fit for purpose. Covers are intended to fit properly with the manhole and should emit minimal noise as a result.

HDB receives minimal feedback related to noise from manhole covers on vehicular driveways with interlocking pavers. In the few instances where there have been noise complaints, they were generally due to poor fit of the cover with the manhole. This can usually be addressed by clearing the manhole of debris, replacing covers which have become warped due to long-term exposure to the elements, or grinding the cover to achieve a better fit with the manhole. Where such situations arise in HDB precincts, HDB will work with the Town Councils to rectify them.