![Overhead lights](https://factorydirectfastening.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/overhaed-lights.jpg?w=300&h=168)
The number of accidents attributed to downed lighting poles on highways is difficult to accurately access, but one thing is clear – it’s on the rise.
Highways agencies such as CalTrans face a daily fight against wire theft and vandalism, which leaves whole stretches of outlying highways without safety lighting.
FDF is a market leader in the design and production of hardware, which prevents against copper wire theft. Back to work after the New Year, FDF was out on the highway again overseeing the installation of a 9A security lid.
The P9 is specifically designed to fit into side wall soffits. The unique design of the spring-loaded locking plate makes it impossible to reach the copper wire and conduits behind. In addition, the tools for fitting the 9A are custom made and proprietary to each highways agency, meaning that unless you work for CalTrans you won’t have the tool to remove the CalTrans security cover.
Retro-fitting the 9A takes between 30 and 40 minutes, but once fitted it will never need maintenance. Sammy Vargas demonstrated the installation of the 9A to a team of CalTrans employees.
Even though this soffit was damaged the installation was a complete success. Removing the lid is simple and takes just a couple of minutes – if you have the right tools!
![Jim Steed CEO of FDF](https://factorydirectfastening.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/jim-steed.jpg?w=300&h=168)
“The important thing is, you can’t get these tools anywhere else” Say’s FDF CEO Jim Steed. “You won’t find them in Home Depot. So if you drive up to a 9A protected soffit with an adjustable wrench and some wire cutters, you’ll look pretty stupid”.
There is no doubt that using the range of FDF security products will reduce copper wire theft in SoCal. Talks are now in progress with other states about customizing the security lids to conform with their own particular specifications.
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For more information contact:
Jim Steed at FDF
[T] 800 942 4844