Let’s face it: warehouses, plants, and other industrial facilities are full of hazards. Whether it’s heavy machinery, unprotected edges, or chemical exposure, the risk of worker injury lurks around every corner. Ask yourself: what are you doing to make your site safer for your workers?
The fact is that more than 40,000 Canadian workers are injured yearly from falling accidents. But what if we told you that you could help significantly reduce this number with one simple piece of equipment? It’s true–all you need is a pallet of YellowGate’s self-closing industrial safety gates from your local safe access equipment supplier. In this post, we’ll discuss the countless benefits of this product and how to use it to make your site safer and more compliant within minutes. Keep reading to learn more!
The Importance of Safety Swing Gates
Historically, worksites have relied on chains to secure openings to stairways and ladders. However, due to new OSHA regulations, there has been a shift away from this solution. Instead, employers have transitioned to more reliable and comprehensive fall protection methods, such as safety swing gates. These crucial fall protection systems help prevent falls without requiring workers to wear active fall protection, like harnesses or safety lines.
These safety solutions are superior to chains for a variety of reasons. As mentioned, OSHA no longer allows chains for fall protection on ladders and stairways, meaning you could be fined for leaving your access points unsecured. Additionally, safety swing gates significantly reduce human error by being self-closing. While chains can be easily overlooked, forgotten, or left open, YellowGate products are spring-loaded and automatically close behind you, eliminating falling hazards altogether.
One Product, Endless Applications
Ready to improve the safety of your site? With YellowGate’s universal mounting kit, you can rest assured that this product will work for every location, surface, or opening in your facility that needs a safety gate. They can be installed onto walls, square stock, angle iron, and round rails or pipes. Plus, they are adjustable and can be used on openings ranging from 24” (61cm) to 37” (94cm).
Thanks to their versatility, these protective gates are used in many industries, including oil and gas, food processing, rail, manufacturing, and more. Here are some common uses for YellowGate’s safety gates:
Ladder & stairway openings
Rooftop access points
Restricted areas
Elevated work platforms
Loading docks
Temporary work areas
Additional Benefits of YellowGate’s Swing Gates
In addition to protecting your workers, YellowGate products are the best safety swing gates on the market thanks to several unique and high-quality features, including:
Stainless steel mounting hardware
Lightweight & rust-proof aluminum construction
Proprietary hidden springs
Universal mounting, both perpendicular and parallel
Adjustable swing direction
Preassembled construction for fast installation
How to Install YellowGate’s Self-Closing Safety Swing Gates
With YellowGate’s newest model, adding adjustable swing gates to your operation has never been easier. Here’s how to install a safety swing gate in three simple steps:
Step 1
Decide whether you need the parallel or perpendicular orientation. If parallel, skip to step 2. If perpendicular, simply remove the parallel mount spring and replace it with the provided perpendicular mount spring.
Step 2
Next, attach your gate using one of the three bolt anchors provided with your product.
Step 3
Finally, adjust your self-closing gate to the proper size. Tighten the clamps.
Northern Platforms: Your Source for Safe Access Solutions
Are you ready to make your industrial facility or plant safer? Contact the Northern Platforms team today! We have pallets of self-closing swing gates in stock now and ready to ship from our warehouse in Leduc. Plus, our inventory includes hundreds of other safe access solutions from trusted suppliers like ErectaStep, SafeRack, RollaStep, and more. Explore our inventory and get ready to level up your worksite.
Railcar wheel chocks are essential in any rail loading system. These simple pieces of equipment prevent accidental movement when loading, unloading, or working on a railcar. According to OSHA regulations, workers must use wheel chocks and car brakes whenever a railcar is being worked on. You can purchase this equipment from your local supplier of safe-access equipment.
Types of Railcar Chocks
Several types of railcar chocks are available for different situations. Whether you are dealing with exposed rail, need something that blocks movement in both directions, or are looking for special features, it’s essential to select the right device for loading your railcars safely. Let’s review the differences between these types of railcar chocks.
Exposed vs Flush
What type of rail are you working on? This will determine what kind of chock you should use. Exposed rail chocks are designed for tracks where the rail is open to the ties. On the other hand, flush rail chocks work for situations where the rail is encased in pavement.
Single Wheel vs Double Wheel
Next, consider how much security you need. Do you need to block movement in both directions? Will your tracks have vibrations or a slight grade? If you answered yes to either of these questions, we recommend double chocks, which provide high protection for cars being worked on. Single chocks should be sufficient if your tracks are completely flat and experience little to no vibration.
Not sure what type of chock is right for you? We’ll break down proper chocking procedures later in this post.
Tips for Using Railcar Chocks Effectively
Pair Them with Other Railcar Safety Equipment & Fall Protection Systems
Pairing your wheel chocks with other safety equipment can help bring your safety system to the next level and substantially reduce your risk of accidents. For example, blue flags should be used whenever rail cars are loaded, unloaded, or worked on. They warn approaching vehicle operators that there are workers in the area and to proceed cautiously. Additionally, we recommend investing in a safe loading platform designed to handle the unique challenges associated with working on railcars.
Follow Proper Wheel Chock Procedures
You’ll need to make sure that you are using your chocks correctly. When determining how many wheel chocks you need for your railcar, consider the following:
For single cars
If idle, on a storage track, and being worked: Use double chocks on each end of the car to block movement in both directions.
If idle and being worked on a slight dip: Single chocks on the foremost wheel on both sets of wheels to prevent it from rolling in one direction.
For multiple cars
If coupled and moved forward to be unloaded/loaded: Brake and chock both ends of the primary car being worked on, and brake and chock additional cars if needed.
If uncoupled for separate work: Brake and chock each car individually.
Remember never to use wheel chocks for railcars on slopes or hills. Instead, use car stops or rail skates.
Get the Most Out of Your Chocks with Aldon’s Replaceable Spurs
All good wheel chocks feature spurs, which are strong, heat-treated pieces of metal that bite into the rail and prevent the chock from slipping. However, much like a knife, the spurs in your chock will dull over time. Luckily for you, Aldon’s railroad wheel chocks feature replaceable spurs, meaning you can extend the life of your equipment and avoid costly replacement fees.
You can tell that your spurs have dulled when your wheel chock starts sliding. When this happens, simply tap the spur out of its slot and re-insert it with a new edge exposed. Then, once you’ve used all available sides, you can purchase replacement spurs.
Choose Northern Platforms for Turnkey Railcar Loading and Fall Protection Systems
As Western Canada’s choice for railcar loading systems, Northern Platforms has everything you need to make your operations safer, smarter, and more efficient. When you partner with us, you’ll get access to our extensive inventory of safe access solutions from trusted suppliers like SafeRack, Aldon, and more. Plus, we offer turnkey installation and preventative maintenance to all our customers.
When dealing with LPG loading and unloading, there are two important factors to consider. First, propane and other gases are difficult and dangerous to deal with. During transportation, the railcars are pressurized to keep the chemicals in a liquefied state. This allows for easy movement of a high volume of natural gas by rail. However, the biggest challenge is safely loading and unloading, as this substance can be highly volatile if not handled correctly. For example, if the railcar pressure is not carefully maintained, the LPG can become a gas again, resulting in a deadly explosion.
Secondly, any company that stores, handles, or transports liquid petroleum products is subject to the regulations set out in NFPA 58, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code. This document helps mitigate risks, ensures safe installations, and prevents failures that could lead to fires and explosions. The complexity of these regulations, paired with the hazards of handling these chemicals, highlights the importance of proper and comprehensive safe loading systems from a qualified provider.
The Solution: Safe Railcar Loading & Unloading Systems
If you plan to deal with LPG in your rail operations, you will need a fully NFPA 58 compliant loading station. This includes safe access to the top of the railcar through a loading platform, safety cage, and gangway. It will also need to feature automatic shutdown valves in case of an emergency such as a fire, leak, or railcar rollaway. Your system should also include tight connections, vapour recovery systems, and adequate fall protection.
“Bull Horn” Loading Arm: A single arm that divides into dual connections. LPG railcars typically have three connections (two product lines and one vapour line).
“A” Frame Loader: Favoured for its flexibility, long reach, and easy maneuverability. It is ideal for loading racks that feature dual unloading lines.
When all these elements are combined, you can rest assured that your railcar loading system is efficient, safe, and compliant.
Trust Northern Platforms for Customized LPG Loading Systems
When selecting your equipment, you’ll want to design a system you can count on to keep things running smoothly, especially since your system will be used daily. That’s where an expert safe access provider comes in. These professionals have the expertise and experience to consider your site’s specific needs and install a system that works best for you. For example, when you partner with Northern Platforms, our team will visit your operation, interview your workers, and engineer a solution based on their answers. In addition to loading systems, we can provide recommendations for crossovers, work platforms, and more to help ensure you have the safest and most efficient loading system possible.
Ready to get started? Learn more about how Northern Platforms can revolutionize your operations, and schedule your site visit today!
A catwalk system, also known as a runway, is a narrow pathway or extended platform that gives workers safe access to elevated working areas. These systems help workers easily access maintenance areas, hard-to-reach equipment, and other parts of their facility. Are you looking to integrate a catwalk system into your warehouse? Keep reading to learn how ErectaStep’s modular and prefabricated catwalk system integrates seamlessly into your space without welding or custom fabrication.
What are the Elements of a Modular Catwalk System?
This system has five main components for catwalk construction that can be assembled and configured without welding or custom fabrication. From simple walkways to valve access platforms, use these elements to create the perfect solution for your worksite:
Catwalk systems are one of the most versatile solutions on the market and can be used in countless industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, food processing, and more. Northern Platforms can help you set up industrial platforms, bridge maintenance walkways, construction site platforms, shipyard access platforms, and more. Erectastep’s modular catwalk systems have even been used in wineries to help elevate safe and easy access for workers!
What are the OSHA and OH&S Standards for Catwalks?
Occupational regulations for catwalks are important because they guarantee safe working and walking standards for individuals using a catwalk system in the workplace. All of ErectaStep’s bolt-together components are pre-engineered to comply with OSHA standards, including handrail specifications, tread depth, and riser height.
Free of fall hazards, including protruding objects, loose boards, corrosion, leaks, spills, snow, and ice.
Inspected regularly and maintained when necessary.
Able to maintain the maximum intended load.
Additionally, here are the more specific OSHA regulations around handrails, width, and load requirements:
Handrail requirements: Required for catwalks located 4 feet or higher above a lower level.
Width requirements: Minimum width is 18 inches. If accessed by a stairway, the catwalk must be the width of the stairway (minimum 22 inches).
Load requirements: Must support the maximum load, which includes the weight of employees, equipment and materials.
Toeboard requirements: Must be used to prevent objects from falling off elevated walkways. Minimum vertical height of 3.5 inches and withstand a force of at least 50 pounds.
Opening requirements: All openings must be protected by fall protection systems if they pose a risk of falls.
Trust Northern Platforms for Catwalk Systems, Modular Work Platforms, and More
Based in Leduc, Alberta, Northern Platforms has provided safe access solutions to Canadians since 2002. We have catwalk systems for sale and ready to ship, as well as other safe access solutions from reputable manufacturers like RollaStep, SafeRack, and YellowGate. Not sure what type of system will work for you? Call us, and one of our experts can visit your site and provide recommendations to make your workplace safer and more efficient. Get started today!
Efficient and safe access to buildings and areas on your worksite is crucial for all operations. But, in some circumstances, it might not make sense to invest in a permanent solution. That’s where portable stairs come in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of portable stairs, their key features, and why it pays to invest in high-quality models like ErectaStep from qualified suppliers like Northern Platforms. Keep reading to learn more!
What are Portable Stairs?
Portable stairs are adjustable work platforms designed to provide access to temporary buildings, trailers, and other areas on construction, industrial, and commercial sites. These safe access solutions are usually installed when permanent stairs aren’t necessary or practical, like temporary worksites or remote jobs. Some employers might also opt for portable steel stairs as a permanent solution since they are a cost-effective and durable alternative to concrete or wood stairs.
Multiple configurations are available, including direct, left, right, or multiple entries. Double stairs are also available.
How High-Quality Portable Stairs Can Save You Money
Avoid Costly Construction
Enabling safe access for your workers is crucial; stairways are just one way. However, external stairs can cost a lot to fabricate and install, especially when using concrete. On the other hand, if you opt for a cheaper material like wood, you’ll experience increased liability due to rot, decay, and improper construction. That’s why metal stairs are ideal: they are less expensive than concrete but more durable than wood.
With pre-fabricated metal stairs, you can significantly reduce material and labour costs. All elements easily bolt together on-site without welding or heavy equipment, making the installation fast and painless. Plus, they are made from durable galvanized steel with large, slip-resistant platforms, meaning your workers will be protected, every step of the way.
No Permits, No Fines
In some cases, you might need a permit if you are building a permanent exterior staircase yourself. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure your stairs comply with your area’s local rules and building regulations. If you aren’t careful, incorrect stair construction can lead to costly fines, taking a significant financial toll in the long run.
Avoid uncertainty (and hefty penalties!) with ErectaStep prefabricated portable stairs, which are OSHA, IBC, and CCOHS compliant. This product is built with tread, riser, and width regulations in mind, meaning you can count on passing your safety inspection with flying colours.
Northern Platforms: Your Go-To for Quality Portable Stairs and More
