History & Key Points

The locking replacement stop tap box lid was designed and patented by Robert Frazer in 1982. His son, Duncan Frazer, now owns the company. Robert was an aircraft engineer in the Second World War working with Barnes Wallis on Lancaster and Wellington bomber gun turrets and was at the forefront of the industrial use of plastics. In retirement in the early eighties he developed the locking replacement lid which has developed into a major money saving and unique idea for the street works operatives of the water companies.

What are the benefits of  our stop tap box lids?

• Damaged lids can be replaced instantly in one visit. One person can complete the job in just a few minutes.
• Each lid contains a plastic locking mechanism that, due to its unique design, will not block up with dirt or rust, enabling easy access at all times.
• No excavation of the road or pavement is required, thereby reducing labour costs to a minimum, with no reinstatement charges. No opening or closing notice required.
• Minimum disruption to the public and combats trip hazards.
• Anti-vandal design means revisiting the area is not necessary.
• Each FT locking replacement stop tap box lid is manufactured to BS5834 Part 2.
• Over 450 different lid sizes are held in stock and new patterns are made, as and when required by customers.

This ingenious product has long been a core part of our business and the product itself has needed very little modification over the years. It is used by virtually every water company in the UK and allows them to make huge cost savings every year. However, we are also happy to help identify individual lids when required – view a couple of examples here.

For a fascinating insight into the foundry where the locking lids are made, take a look at the video…