Totalkare has installed a 15-metre vehicle inspection pit at Stagecoach South East’s Dover depot, enhancing the company’s ability to maintain and repair its fleet of buses.
Stagecoach South East plays a crucial role in the UK’s bus network, operating multiple depots and providing essential transport services to communities across the region.
The new inspection pit is designed to improve the efficiency and safety of maintenance tasks. Its construction includes robust 1,250mm wide walls made from thick welded steel, ensuring durability and long-term use. LED lighting has been installed to enhance visibility for engineers working in the pit, while the sloping floor with an integrated sump simplifies cleaning and waste management. The pit also features built-in storage for tools and equipment, a raised sliding platform for better vehicle access, and a detachable footbridge to facilitate safer movement for workers.
For handling heavy-duty tasks, the pit is equipped with a 20,000kg air-operated twin ram jack, capable of lifting large vehicles with ease. Additionally, an environmentally friendly waste oil drainer has been incorporated, aligning with Stagecoach’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management. The vehicle pit meets CE mark standards under EN 1090-1 Exc 2, demonstrating compliance with stringent safety and quality regulations.
Grahame Patterson, Engineering Director at Stagecoach South East, emphasised the positive impact of the installation on their operations. He highlighted how the new pit has improved efficiency and safety for the maintenance team.
Grahame Patterson said:The new pit has enabled quicker turnaround times and improved working conditions for our engineers.
Brian Young, National Accounts Manager at Totalkare, underscored the collaborative nature of the project and its contribution to reducing downtime.
Brian Young said:This installation complements the existing four pits at the site, further enhancing Stagecoach’s maintenance capabilities. We aimed to complete the work with minimal disruption, and it was great to work with the Stagecoach team.
The addition of this inspection pit reflects Stagecoach South East’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service and safety. By investing in infrastructure that supports efficient and reliable operations, the company continues to play a vital role in the UK’s transportation network, ensuring dependable service for the communities it serves.
This article was originally published by Totalkare Ltd.
