A Kerb layer from Leicester has designed and built a kerb laying device that is said to meet the new manual handling regulations, while allowing operators to retain traditional speeds and methods of working. Called the Easy Lifter, the unit resembles a modified sack truck with a grab to hold kerbs and slabs. Long handles give enough leverage to lift heavy blocks easily, and with 600mm wide track the unit will run over the first slabs to position others. As the clamp holds the ends of the kerbstone, it is possible to use traditional line to set against. Then the clamp automatically releases the kerb slightly higher than the adjacent stone to allow final positioning. Inventor and kerb layer Patrick Walsh made several versions before coming up with the final design. Nick Lane, senior contracts manager with GF Tomlinson and Sons, was impressed with the Easy Lifter, which has been used to position kerbstones along a new section of road in Leicester. He said it was a cheap and simple stand-alone unit and added: “There is nothing to go wrong”. The clamp can be adjusted to fit most sizes of paving kerbs or slabs and one person can lift the complete unit into the back of a van. The Easy Lifter costs under £1,000 and Leicester Council has purchased six units.

Easy Lifter have appointed ADM Studios to create and produce their new DVD. ADM Studios are based in Oadby, Leicester.