Clyde Mertens, CEO of Safely Elevate, worked in a public works department for 35 years, where him and two men were responsible for raising and lowering 100% of their own manhole castings. Due to the strenuous physical demand on their bodies, he designed the prototype for the Manhole Buddy. This one tool was used on every job from that day forward, for 25 years, making the strenuous job safer, easier, more efficient, and with less workers. 

This single tool held up to every job over the years and is still functioning and operational today. 

Clyde is determined to get the Manhole Buddy to everyone doing this type of work, for its countless benefits. 

The Manhole Buddy made its formal debut in 2024, when 4 separate business used the tool for the season, and all gave us positive reviews and feedback.  

The Manhole Buddy is the patented, tested, and proven solution to raising/lowering manhole castings. 

We are confident the Manhole Buddy tool will revolutionize the way this industry functions. 

Clyde is a small town, blue collar, hard working, family man. Safely Elevate is a family owned and operated business, marketing the Manhole Buddy. Clyde, along with his son Chris and daughter Lori are honest, trustworthy, dependable, committed and determined leaders  who are focused on standing behind and supporting you create a safer work environment. 

The Manhole Buddy is fabricated by a local small town, family owned and operated machine shop, packaged and available shipping anywhere within the continental United States. 

Made in America. 

If you require more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for your time.