Case Study: Supporting Safer Pipe Handling with Heartland Pipelines Ltd

Following a successful trial with Heartland Pipelines Ltd on a Severn Trent Water contract, a new Steve Vick International (SVI) COILControl unit has been delivered to Heartland Pipelines — making them the first water contractor to purchase and implement the SVI COILControl system.This innovative solution will support the company’s ongoing water infrastructure work, including a 20km directional drilling project currently taking place across challenging rural terrain.The trial brought together a suite of safety-led technologies designed to reduce the risks associated with handling 180 pipe coils, which can pose serious safety hazards due to the stored kinetic energy they contain. The trial featured:· An enhanced 180 Pipe Coil Trailer with integrated guarding· The newly developed COILControl device· The Long Reach Band Cutter, which enables steel strapping to be cut from a safe distance of three metresTogether, these technologies provided a safer, more controlled approach to managing coiled PE pipe in the field.Saskia Hall, Compliance Manager at Heartland Pipelines, commented on the impact of the new system:“COILControl will significantly improve the safety of our operators handling coiled PE pipe and will support the safety and efficiency of our directional drilling projects. We’re delighted to take delivery of this new unit.”This collaboration highlights the value of early-stage innovation trials in live site conditions. By working closely with contractors and utilities, Steve Vick International continues to develop practical, safety-focused solutions tailored to real-world challenges.Heartland Pipelines’ adoption of COILControl demonstrates a proactive commitment to workforce safety and operational excellence — setting a strong example for others across the sector.