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Railcar Fall Protection Systems: What Equipment Makes for a Secure System?

Railcar Fall Protection Systems: What Equipment Makes for a Secure System?

Creating a railcar fall protection system that addresses your safety concerns and enhances your operations can be complicated without expert support. Luckily, Northern Platforms is here to help, as we specialize in railcar and truck loading access and fall protection solutions.


Next, we will tell you about some of the essential railcar fall protection components your railyard needs and how our team can help you create a system that ensures your crew’s safety while enhancing your bottom line. Keep reading to find out more! 


Essential Railcar Fall Protection Components

When setting up a railcar fall protection system, many components are required to ensure that your railyard is safe and compliant with local and national safety standards. At Northern Platforms, we’ve been helping railyards design their fall protection systems for over 20 years. Over the years, the following equipment and components have proven themselves time and time again to be essential, no matter the type of railcar or loading/unloading application. This includes:

  • Loading platforms and gangways
  • Spill containment berms and pans
  • Loading arms


While this is a short list, ultimately, the scope of your railcar fall protection depends on several factors, including the size of your railyard, types of railcars, and material being transported. At Northern Platforms, we have the inventory and expertise to help you determine what equipment and components are required to make your railcar loading/unloading applications safe, efficient, and compliant. 


Some Overlooked Components and Things to Consider

As mentioned previously, the scope of your railcar fall protection system will vary depending on several factors. Below are a few questions to consider, as they will help you and the Northern Platforms team narrow down your railcar fall protection options:

  1. How many railcars does your system need to access?
  2. What type of railcars are you working with?
  3. How many tracks are in your work area? Is the track straight or curved?
  4. Are the railcars always parked in the same location, or does their placement vary depending on whether the railcars are spotted / loaded or unloaded?
  5. How are you loading and unloading the railcar? With a loading arm, hose, or other means?
  6. What is your railcar spotting philosophy?


In addition to considering the above questions, it’s also essential not to overlook some lesser-known railcar fall protection tools and equipment, as they can make a difference in the safety and compliance of your railyard. These components may include safety cages, safety showers, wheel chocks, safety flags, derailers and rerailers, signage, and lighting. At Northern Platforms, we carry everything you need to establish a safe railcar fall protection system; let our team help you choose the right components for your operations. 


Your Source for Railcar Fall Protection Expertise

Since 2002, Northern Platforms has been Western Canada’s trusted source for safe access solutions, loading equipment, fall protection and more. With decades of experience under our belts, we have the knowledge and expertise to address your railcar fall protection needs.


Whether your railyard requires a fall protection system for a single car with a single hatch or multiple cars with multiple hatches or something in between, Northern Platforms has you covered! With a specialization in both railcar and truck loading applications, our team can custom create a fall protection system that not only ensures the safety of your crew but also enhances efficiency, keeps your railyard compliant, and improves your bottom line. So, when you need expert support, trust the pros at Northern Platforms!


Ready to Get Started?

To create the best possible railcar fall protection system for your operations, the team at Northern Platforms first needs to see what you’re currently working with, meaning we need to visit your site. Contact us to schedule a railcar fall protection system assessment with Northern Platforms. One of our team members will walk you through the process and help you narrow your options so your operations can function at their safest. Let’s get started today!

4 Top-Loading Arms for LPG and SULFUR Loading Applications

4 Top-Loading Arms for LPG and SULFUR Loading Applications

Top-loading arms are commonly used for loading railcars and trucks with LPG and sulfur. At Northern Platforms, we are proud to be industry leaders in distributing top-loading arms across Western Canada. Below, we will introduce you to four popular top-loading arm options from OPW Engineered Systems and a loading arm accessory that can make temperature-sensitive loading applications easier. Keep reading to find out more! 


Supported and Unsupported Boom-Style Loading Arms

Northern Platforms’ OPW Boom-Style top-loading arms are a great option for facilities with variable reach applications. The Supported and Unsupported styles offer unparalleled flexibility, long-reach capabilities, and ease of operation, making them a popular choice in sulfur and LPG loading applications. Aside from their ease of use, the Supported and Unsupported Boom-style loading arms can both be folded back against your loading platform for convenient and compact storage. 


Some other features and benefits of these top-loading arms include:

  • Available in 2”, 3”, 4” and 6” sizes
  • Available in stainless steel, carbon steel, or aluminum 
  • The support section can be added to maximize both reach and weight limit capabilities
  • Your choice of flanged, threaded, or all-welded construction 
  • Adaptable for tight-fill or closed-system loading when equipped with additional components available at Northern Platforms 


Scissor Style Top-Loading Arm

The OPW Scissor Style top loading arms at Northern Platforms are primarily used in tanker truck loading and unloading operations where the reach is less than 120”. This loading arm is designed explicitly for top-loading applications requiring a variable operating range. One of the significant advantages of this top-loading arm is that its secondary arm can rotate 360° in the horizontal plane, providing your operators with a spotting allowance almost twice its length, making this top-loading arm a versatile loading solution. 


Here are a few other benefits and features of the OPW Scissor Style top loading arm:

  • Available in 2”, 3”, and 4” sizes
  • Available in carbon steel, stainless steel or aluminum
  • Your choice of flanged, threaded or all-welded construction
  • With additional components, it can be adapted for tight-fill or closed-system loading applications


Fixed Reach Style Top Loading Arm

The final top loading arm style that is a popular choice for LPG and sulfur loading applications is the OPW Fixed Reach Style loader. This simple loading arm encompasses only three swivel planes of rotation. The two swivel planes permit both up and down and side-to-side movement, while the third swivel plane ensures the drop pipe stays vertical, making operations simple. If you’re looking to reduce leaks and drips of viscous products after loading, the team at Northern Platforms can ensure that this style of top-loading arm features a valve within the outboard.


Below are a few other stand-out features and benefits of this top-loading arm:

  • Available in 2”, 3” and 4” sizes
  • Available in carbon steel, stainless steel, or aluminum
  • Your choice of flanged, threaded or all-welded construction
  • Can be adapted for tight-fill or closed-system loading when equipped with additional components from Northern Platforms


Custom Insulation Packages for Temperature Sensitive Loading

When loading molten sulfur or other temperature-sensitive chemicals or materials, your operations need custom insulation packages. At Northern Platforms, we have the OPW Custom Insulation Packages, which offer superior heat retention, safety and outstanding range of motion. Compared to field-applied insulation, these custom insulation packages are fully removable and reusable. 


Northern Platforms offers these packages in top and bottom designs, carbon steel or stainless steel and 2”, 3”, 4” and 6” sizes. So if your facility is loading or unloading molten sulfur or other temperature-sensitive materials, Northern Platforms is here to help. 


Find the Loading Arms You Need at Northern Platforms

With our large inventory of OPW Engineered Systems products, including replacement parts, Northern Platforms is your source for all your loading and unloading equipment needs. Let our team work with you to find the right loading arms for your applications.


Contact us today to learn more about our OPW top-loading arms and Custom Insulation Packages.

Does Your Facility Need Crossover Stairs? Here’s How to Find Out! 

Does Your Facility Need Crossover Stairs? Here’s How to Find Out! 

When it comes to safety in industrial settings, there is no compromise. At Northern Platforms, we understand the challenges Safety Managers and Plant Managers face when it comes to ensuring the safety and compliance of their worksites. Fortunately, as your safe access solution experts, the Northern Platforms team is here to help!


Next, we will explain ways to spot potential trouble areas in your facility and how a set of crossover stairs can fix this potential hazard. Keep reading to find out more. 


Understanding the Need for Safe Crossover Points

If you are a Safety Manager or Facility Plant Manager, you likely already know the importance of crossover stairs. Workers taking shortcuts over or under production lines is an age-old problem and one that can result in serious bodily harm, accidental death, and fines from governing bodies like OSHA and OH&S. Additionally, slips, accidental falls, and injuries commonly happen around ground-level obstacles and equipment that should have a designated crossover point. Fortunately, crossover stairs from Northern Platforms are the perfect solution. 


Identifying Trouble Spots

When considering crossover stairs for your worksite or facility, it is essential to think like an inspector. Keep a keen eye out on how your employees move around your facility, then act immediately. Not only will this mentality keep your staff safe, but it will also give you peace of mind when your next safety inspection happens. 


When observing your employees, ask yourself the following questions:

  1. Is there an obstacle (such as a horizontal pipe, production line, or electrical conduit) that crosses an area of your facility’s deck?
  2. Are workers always stepping over said obstacle instead of going around or to a designated crossover point?
  3. Are your workers ducking underneath the obstacle to reach their stations or take a break?
  4. Are your workers taking potentially dangerous shortcuts to cross your facility efficiently?


If you answer “Yes” to any of the above questions, then it’s likely that a crossover stair from Northern Platforms could solve these navigational issues and make your facility safer. 


Remember, an injury to one of your workers due to them unsafely crossing over or under an obstacle in your facility can stop your operations. By providing your workers with secure access around obstacles and barriers with Northern Platforms crossover stairs, you’re ensuring their safety on the job, your facility’s compliance with safety regulations, and continuous production. 


The ErectaStep Solution

If your worksite, facility or plant is facing safety and navigational issues, Northern Platforms is here to help! Our OSHA-compliant ErectaStep crossover stairs offer an easy-to-assemble solution. This five-piece modular system allows you to customize your crossover stairs to address any length or height your trouble areas require. 


Each ErectaStep crossover stair system component is constructed from industrial-grade aluminum (also available in 304 stainless steel) and requires minimal tools and no welding for installation. When you bolt this modular access solution together, the result is a stable crossover stair that will not only last for years but can also be disassembled and reconfigured as your plant or facility grows.


When you need a cost-effective, easy-to-install, and OHSA / OH&S complaint crossover solution, Northern Platforms has you covered with our ErectaStep systems. Let our team help you design the custom access solutions you need with an on-site visit today! 


Ready to Make Your Facility Safer?

With help from Northern Platforms’ highly trained and experienced team, we can ensure your facility or plant is safe and compliant. Contact us for a quote on your crossover stairs or to schedule an on-site visit and evaluation today! Remember, Northern Platforms is here to protect you and your workers from workplace injuries and to make loading, accessing, and unloading at your worksite a breeze.

Custom Access Solutions: Northern Platforms’ Modular Work Platforms

Custom Access Solutions: Northern Platforms’ Modular Work Platforms

At Northern Platforms, we understand that finding the right work platform for your facility or worksite can be challenging, as finding the right one-size-fits-all solution isn’t always easy or doable. Fortunately, we have a solution for tricky facilities or locations: our ErectaStep modular work platforms. Next, we will tell you more about this versatile platform and how our team can ensure you get the correct configuration for your operational needs. Keep reading to find out more! 


Meet ErectaStep’s Innovative Modular Work Platforms

For over 20 years, Northern Platforms has been an industry leader in critical safe access solutions and loading equipment. One of our most versatile and popular products is Erectastep’s modular work platforms. These lightweight, aluminum work platforms can be adapted for nearly any application and facility. With its modular design, reusability, and simple installation process, our offering of ErectaStep modular work platforms can take your operations to the next level. 


Let’s dig into this modular work platform further: 



Versatile Modular Design and Components

Using only five components: prefabricated metal stairs, industrial handrails, metal work platforms, aluminum ladders and tower support, Northern Platforms’ ErectaStep modular work platform is a versatile yet sturdy access solution. This work platform is OSHA-compliant, precision manufactured, and fully engineered with quality materials. It also does not require any fabrication and can be configured into metal stairs, crossover stairs and many other designs to aid in movement over dike walls, pipes, equipment and more. So whether your facility needs a single 3’x3′ platform, a 3’x12′ walkway, a 9’x9′ work zone, or some other configuration, Northern Platforms’ inventory of ErectaStep modular work platforms has you covered! 


Next are some features of our ErectaStep modular work platforms: 

  • Universal design on all four sides of the platform for application adaptability
  • Aggressive self-draining tread
  • No welding, special tools or crane is required for assembly
  • OHSA-compliant
  • The lightweight yet durable design makes installation easy
  • Available in aluminum, galvanized, 304 stainless, and steel
  • Compatible with YellowGate safety swing gates


Effortless Assembly Made Even Easier

If you’re considering installing an ErectaStep modular work platform into your facility, the Northern Platforms team is here to help! Our highly experienced and trained team will visit your site to identify goals and potential challenges with your facility; that way, we can ensure the job gets done right. We utilize a state-of-the-art custom configuration tool to virtually build your modular work platform, view accurate quotes, and see detailed design drawings in minutes. This lets you see exactly what your new modular work platform will look like once installed. 


Northern Platforms’ team can even help you with the installation process! With our turnkey installation services, our team will take charge of the assembly process, ensuring that your equipment is installed safely and on time. This means you can focus on other aspects of your operations while Northern Platforms gets our hands dirty for you. Whether you need support installing your new ErectaStep modular work platform, OPW loading arms, or a railcar loading platform, our team is here to help! 


Your End-To-End Partner

Since 2002, Northern Platforms has been your trusted source for SafeRack, OPW, ErectaStep, and many other quality access solutions from leading manufacturers. When you need a custom access solution for your facility or worksite, Northern Platforms in Leduc has you covered!


Contact us today to learn more about our ErectaStep modular work platforms or to find out more about our turnkey installation services! 

Ensure Safety and Accessibility with Catwalk Platforms

Ensure Safety and Accessibility with Catwalk Platforms

Ensuring your employees can navigate obstacles or hazards securely is essential to maintaining a productive and safe work environment. This is where catwalk platforms from Northern Platforms come into play, providing a practical and efficient solution to enhance accessibility while minimizing safety risks. Below, we will explore typical applications for catwalk and crossover stairs, emphasizing the significance of these platforms in various industrial settings. Keep reading to find out more!


The Importance of Safety and Accessibility

Industrial catwalks and crossover stairs are essentially the same and are sometimes referred to as crossover ladders or platforms. These solutions play a critical role in improving safety and accessibility across numerous industrial settings. Workers naturally tend to take the shortest and simplest routes, often disregarding potential safety risks. By incorporating catwalk platforms in your facility, you create designated pathways that not only enhance safety but also make it easier for employees to access hard-to-reach areas.


Common Applications for Catwalk and Crossover Stairs

Industrial catwalks and crossover stairs are versatile access equipment that enables your crew to navigate your facility securely. While these safe access solutions can be used in a wide variety of applications, some of the most common applications include the following:

  1. Over Pipes: In many industrial facilities, pipelines and conduits are often elevated and can create obstacles. Catwalk platforms serve as a safe and efficient solution for workers to access these areas while ensuring their safety.
  2. Rooftops: Getting over HVAC and heating/cooling ducting systems on rooftops can be a challenge. Catwalk platforms provide an elevated path for employees to navigate these rooftop installations securely.
  3. Cable Trays and Instrumentation Lines: Industrial facilities often have an intricate network of cable trays and instrumentation lines. Catwalk platforms allow workers to access and maintain these systems with ease.
  4. Containment Berms: In settings where containment berms are in place for spill control, catwalk platforms offer a means to access and inspect these berms, ensuring they are in proper working order.


Customizable Catwalk Platforms

At Northern Platforms, we proudly offer ErectaStep industrial catwalk platforms that are both lightweight and customizable to fit your facility’s unique needs. These platforms are designed with simplicity in mind, making installation straightforward. But if you prefer a hassle-free installation, our team at Northern Platforms can handle the installation work for you!


Digital Customization Configuration

To ensure the optimal configuration for your catwalk platform, Northern Platforms offers the expertise of our team of safe access solution experts. They will visit your facility to identify potential challenges and design a catwalk platform tailored to your specific safety requirements. Using a digital customization configuration tool, we provide detailed blueprints of the access solutions we recommend so you can visualize the finished catwalk platform before installation and understand the final quote.


Catwalks, Gangways, Fall Protection and More

Catwalk platforms are crucial in enhancing safety and accessibility across various industrial applications. These platforms are essential for navigating numerous obstacles, such as pipes, rooftops, cable trays, and containment berms, ensuring your workers can perform their tasks securely.


Northern Platforms, with our customizable and easy-to-install catwalk solutions, is your trusted partner in elevating safety and accessibility in your industrial setting. Trust us to provide the right catwalk platform to meet your needs and enhance your facility’s safety.


Contact us today to learn more about installing an ErectaStep catwalk in your facility!

Ensure Leak-Free Biofuel and Chemical Transfers with Northern Platforms

Ensure Leak-Free Biofuel and Chemical Transfers with Northern Platforms

Handling hazardous chemicals demands precision, expertise, and unwavering commitment to safety. At Northern Platforms, we understand the critical importance of safe chemical transfers, which is why we stock high-quality and reliable loading arm systems. These systems are not only designed to facilitate the secure and efficient transfer of chemicals but also to minimize the risk to workers and the environment. Continue reading to learn more about our top loading arms, dry disconnects, and how Northern Platforms can ensure you have the right equipment for the job. 


An Emerging Industry: Biofuels

Before getting into the details of top chemical loading arms, let’s take a moment to understand biofuels. Biofuels, like biodiesel and renewable diesel, have gained prominence as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional fossil fuels. These fuels are derived from renewable sources like animal fats, vegetable oil, and waste restaurant grease. While they offer numerous benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, they come with their own set of challenges. Safe and efficient handling of biofuels is crucial to maximize their advantages; fortunately, Northern Platforms is here to help!


The Role of Loading Arms

When handling biofuels or other chemicals, loading arms plays a pivotal role. These arms act as a bridge between fixed loading facilities and chemical tankers, ensuring the smooth and safe transfer of liquids and gases. Essentially, they are the unsung heroes of many industrial processes as they are designed to withstand harsh chemicals while still upholding stringent safety standards.


Additionally, chemical loading arms from Northern Platforms are available in various configurations to cater to specific loading requirements. Among these, top loading arms are designed for filling road or rail tankers from above. They use a manhole or fixed connections, like couplers, to establish a secure link between the loading facility and the tanker. High-quality swivel joints and precise loading arm balancing are the cornerstones of these arms’ design, enabling them to transfer chemicals safely and efficiently. 


Dry Disconnects and Loading Arms: The Perfect Pair

While chemical top loading arms provide exceptional safety and efficiency during fluid transfers, it’s important also to highlight the dry disconnect products that enable the transfer process to happen. At Northern Platforms, we stock a range of OPW Engineered Systems dry disconnects specifically engineered to enhance the safety and reliability of hazardous liquid transfers. Within our inventory, you’ll find four exceptional dry disconnect couplings, each with unique features and benefits. Below is a brief overview of how these couplings provide a shield against potential hazards during chemical transfers.

  • Drylok® – Exceptional Hazardous Liquid Transfer: Designed for the safe transfer of a wide range of hazardous and corrosive liquids, the Drylok® dry disconnect coupler excels in challenging loading-rack environments. Typical applications include handling acids, solvents and petrochemicals.
  • Kamvalok® – Virtually Eliminating Spillage: The OPW Kamvalok® Dry Disconnect stands out due to its unique poppet action, which virtually eliminates the spillage of residual liquid. Common applications include handling paint, inks, adhesives, petroleum products, and various chemicals. Kamvalok® offers a level of protection that is unmatched.
  • Epsilon™ – Unparalleled Efficiency: Epsilon™ Dry Disconnect Couplings are designed for efficiency and safety. Featuring an innovative double ball-valve system, Epsilon™ minimizes product loss while providing a reliable double shutoff mechanism. 
  • Twist-Lok™ – Easy and Efficient: OPW’s Twist-Lok™ is the latest addition to their range of Dry Disconnect Couplers. It offers user-friendly operation and simple handling, providing a quick, easy connection with minimal product loss. 


Installation and Maintenance Services

At Northern Platforms, our team doesn’t just stop at providing top-quality fall protection and access solutions. We also offer installation and routine maintenance services to ensure that your loading arm systems and gangways are operating in optimal condition. Moreover, our team is happy to visit your site or facility, assess your needs, and help you determine the best chemical top loading arm system for your specific application and facility. When you need expert support, Northern Platforms has you covered!


Your Source for Loading Arms and More!

The safe transfer of chemicals and biofuels is essential for protecting your workers, equipment, and the environment. Loading arms, especially chemical top loading arms, are instrumental in ensuring these transfers occur without incident. Northern Platforms provides top-of-the-line loading arms, fall protection, and safe access solutions prioritizing safety and efficiency. With our decades of experience and dedication to safety, our team ensures that you have the equipment you need to safely transfer chemicals with precision and care.


Contact Northern Platforms today and let our team help you determine the best possible loading arm system for your application.