Are you considering a new railcar loading system? You’ll need a provider who knows the ins and outs of loading equipment, fall protection systems, and more. Keep reading to learn how partnering with a full-service company like Northern Platforms will help deliver expert results.
Key Takeaways
Railcar systems count on several elements (loading platforms, gangways, loading arms, and more) for efficient loading and unloading. All these elements must work hand in hand.
Ad hoc approaches leave companies vulnerable to operational delays and ineffective systems.
Partnering with a full-service company like Northern Platforms early on in the process generates the best possible railcar loading system.
Why Turnkey Railcar Loading Systems Win
1. Everything Works Together Seamlessly
Railcar loading systems can be complicated. In order to function properly, your gangway, loading arm, and platform need to work hand in hand. However, when you opt for multiple products from multiple contractors, you risk compatibility issues, which can have both short-term and long-term effects on your system.
On the other hand, turnkey providers help eliminate compatibility issues from the start. With a unified system, every component works together flawlessly, eliminating operational concerns and significantly reducing installation stress.
2. They Draw on Decades of Experience
When you opt for an experienced and full-service safe access provider, you will have countless years of experience at your disposal. While piecemeal providers might only have experience in their niche, a company like Northern Platforms has been designing, building, and maintaining complete systems for over 20 years. We’ve tackled everything from simple systems to multi-hatch configurations. We also have expertise in many different industries, including natural gas liquids (NGLs), refined fuels, agricultural products (fertilizer, NH3, UAN) and more.
3. They’re Infinitely Customizable
When it comes to railcar loading systems, there is no “one size fits all.” You and your contractor will need to consider many different factors and circumstances to ensure your new rack seamlessly integrates into your operations. Here are some questions that you should keep in mind:
What type of railcars are you regularly performing work on?
How are your railcars being moved around the site?
What are the limits of your existing system?
Based on your answers to these questions and more, an experienced and full service provider can design a system that is directly based on your needs. This might include selecting the ideal loading arm, choosing the right fittings, and adding additional safety features like wheel chocks, blue flags, and spill containment pads.
4. They Have One Contact From Start to Finish
One of the biggest operational advantages of partnering with a turnkey provider? Your project will have one contact from start to finish. Avoid the headache of juggling multiple vendors, timelines, contacts, and invoices and let Northern Platforms take care of everything from installation to ongoing maintenance and repairs!
Northern Platforms: Western Canada’s Experts in Railcar Loading Systems
Western Canadian companies depend on reliable, functional, and long-lasting railcar loading racks. But without proper designs, project management, or products, these essential systems can fail you when you need them most.
Avoid operational delays and costly mistakes—opt for a full-service provider who oversees your project from beginning to end. At Northern Platforms, we guarantee expert fall protection systems, high-quality products, and customer service that puts you and your operations first. Ready to upgrade your railcar loading rack? Contact our sales team to learn more about our products or schedule your site visit today!
For most loading or unloading operations, safe access is a constant priority. However, traditional stairways or integrated ladders often fail to accommodate the evolving demands of most businesses. Looking for a secure, reliable, and adaptable way to access the tops of your equipment? The answer lies in articulating stairs. In this blog post, we’ll break down the three types of articulating stairs that Northern Platforms offers. Keep reading to learn more!
Self-Adjusting Stair Gangways (SAS)
As the #1 selling gangway in North America, SafeRacks’s self-adjusting stair gangway (SAS) is the gold standard for safe vehicle access. These innovative systems feature stair treads that articulate and self-level automatically, easily accommodating different vehicle heights.
Here are some key details about the SAS gangway:
Suitable for trucks, railcars, and isotainers.
Adjusts to different vehicle heights with an 85-degree working range.
Available widths include 24”, 36”, 48”, 60”, and 72”.
Stairs can reach up to 101.5” in length.
Made from aluminum and includes stainless steel hardware.
Are compatible with SafeRack’s safety cages for complete fall protection
Flat Ramp Telescoping Gangways (FRT)
Flat ramp telescoping gangways offer specialized solutions for operations requiring extended reach capabilities, which can be particularly useful in railcar loading applications. The FRT design features a slip-resistant surface that eliminates dangerous gaps between loading platforms and railcar surfaces. This 21-inch telescoping extension accommodates various railcar configurations while maintaining safe footing for operators.
Important features of the FRT gangway include:
Specifically designed for railcar loading operations.
Widths from 24” to 72” available.
Available materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.
37” to 89” range reach, with possible extensions to eliminate gaps.
Can hold up to 500lbs, with a handrail weight rating of 200lbs.
Top handrails can telescope in applications without a safety cage.
Simple Flat Ramp Gangways
If you are looking for an entry-level gangway, a simple flat ramp gangway is the right option for you. While this model does not offer the same articulating or telescoping features as the other options on this list, this cost-effective solution still has benefits. For example, it is more cost-effective than other articulating stairs, making it an excellent choice for small operations with limited budgets. Additionally, the straightforward flat ramp design features a slip-resistant walking surface and easy-to-use features, making it a popular choice for hopper car or truck applications where minimal height variation exists.
Here are some key features of the SFR gangway:
Suitable for both trucks and railcars, with specific advantages for hopper cars.
Features rubber bumps and machine-quality pivot points.
Widths ranging from 24’ to 72”, with a reach range of 36” to 88”
Available in aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.
Load capacity of 500lbs, with a handrail weight rating of 200lbs.
Choosing the Best Articulating Stairs for Your Site
Looking for a safe access solution that seamlessly integrates into your workflow? In order to find the best articulating stairs, you’ll need to assess the key features of each model.
Feature
SAS Gangways
FRT Gangways
Simple Flat Ramp
Best Applications
Sites with trucks of varying heights.
Railcar loading
Consistent vehicle heights and sites with basic needs.
Height Range
40° below to 45° above
15° above to 15° below
15° above to 15° below
Special Features
Self-leveling treads
Telescoping extension
Basic flat design
Complexity
High adjustment capability
Moderate extension system
Simple operation
Cost
$$$
$$
$
Generally speaking, opt for:
SAS gangways when dealing with varying heights.
FRT gangways for railcar operations.
SFR gangways for a budget-friendly option.
Still not sure which type of articulating stairs is best for your operation? Contact the Northern Platforms team for more information about your options.
Northern Platforms: Your Source for Gangways, Loading Platforms, and More
As Western Canada’s leading distributor of SafeRack safe access solutions, Northern Platforms has what it takes to make your operations safe, reliable, and efficient. With over 20 years of expertise in designing and installing comprehensive loading systems, our team will go above and beyond to understand the specific challenges and requirements of your business. Ready to experience all that Northern Platforms has to offer? Call us at (780) 986-8825 or explore our products online today.
Ready to create the ideal fuel tanker loading and unloading system from top to bottom? This blog post will walk you through all the essential equipment you’ll need. Plus, keep reading for some key considerations and featured manufacturers.
Essential Equipment for Fuel Tanker Loading
Bottom Loading Arms
Looking for the best fuel tanker loading equipment? The answer is simple: invest in a bottom-loading arm. While many operations count on top-loading technology, bottom-loading is superior for fuel-specific uses. When a fuel tanker is loaded from the bottom, it creates less turbulence. This helps reduce static build-up and significantly minimizes fire risks.
An added benefit? Bottom loading allows workers to safely load and unload product from the ground— completely eliminating falling risks or other hazards from working at height.
Hoses
While most industry professionals recommend loading arms over hoses, this tried-and-true loading system still has its place. Generally speaking, hoses are a great choice for simpler operations or businesses with limited budgets. When choosing your hose assembly, pay attention to material compatibility, temperature ranges, and pressure ratings.
Breakaway Couplings
Accidents can happen in even the most ideal circumstances. When you invest in breakaway couplings for your fuel tanker loading system, you are protecting your operation and your workers from any incident that accidentally causes your loading arm or hose to dislodge from the tanker while loading. If your vehicle moves unexpectedly, this device will automatically shut off the fuel flow, protecting you from catastrophic spills.
API Couplers
Another essential piece of fuel tanker loading equipment? API Couplers to help ensure secure connections and reduce operator error. These connections will only open when properly engaged, helping prevent small spills when your hose or loading arm is disconnected. Pair these with breakaway couplings for complete protection.
Spill Containment
While most fuel tanker sites have spill containment pads built into their sites, you can ensure complete protection with additional containment products from Northern Platforms. With portable containment berms, pads for oil drums, and more can compliment your permanent infrastructure to ensure your site is 100% compliant and protected at all times.
Considerations for the Best Fuel Tanker Loading System
When selecting your fuel tanker loading equipment, there are many questions you should ask yourself, including the following:
What types of trucks do you deal with?
How many trucks do you deal with?
What are the environmental considerations of your site?
What tanker truck configurations does your system need to accommodate?
What are your flow rate and capacity requirements?
Still not sure what kind of system is right for you? Contact the experts at Northern Platforms to walk through your options.
Best Brands for Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment in 2025
Three industry leaders dominate the fuel tanker loading equipment market, each bringing unique strengths to operations worldwide.
OPW
One of the best brands in the business, OPW specializes in loading arms, hoses, fittings, and couplings that make loading operations more efficient. With over 100 years of experience, OPW products are infinitely customizable. From simple installations to complex multi-arm configurations, trust OPW for a fuel tanker loading system that seamlessly fit your needs. Trust OPW for:
Top, bottom, and custom loading arms that can be configured for every situation. Several different styles are available, including fixed reach, scissor-style, and more.
Quick and dry disconnects to ensure that there are no hazardous leaks or drips during the loading or unloading process.
Breakaway couplings and swivel joints for flexible operations.
SafeRack
Industry leaders in all things fall protection, SafeRack has over 40 years of experience designing loading platforms, mobile access units, gangways, and more. All SafeRack solutions are designed to meet or exceed the OSHA or OH&S regulations of your area. Their top products include:
Truck loading platforms with customizations for pedestal, multi-hatch, single-sided, and double-sided applications.
Articulating and self-levelling gangways designed to provide complete fall protection.
Safety cages that are compatible with all other SafeRack products for ultimate safety.
UltraTech
Looking for comprehensive spill containment technology? With over 400 different products in their catalogue, UltraTech has got you covered. From basic containment pans to fast-deploying oil booms, these products prioritize fast and effective responses to any spill that occurs on your site. For your operations, consider one of these products:
Portable spill trays for underneath your loading arm or hose for protection in case of unintended drips.
Drum spill containment pads for any fuel, oil, or chemicals that require secondary containment.
Track containment pads for any operation that also deals with railcars.
Northern Platforms: Western Canada’s Trusted Experts
Which item from this list are you choosing? No matter what you pick, you can trust Northern Platforms for high-quality, expertly designed fuel tanker loading systems that stand the test of time. We have over 20 years of experience and a comprehensive inventory from the industry’s best suppliers, including SafeRack, OPW, Ultratech, and more. Ready to get started? Call us today to schedule your first site visit!
Did you know that any operation that regularly works with pressurized LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is subject to strict safety rules and regulations? It’s true—these railcar loading platforms and systems require specialized engineering to handle volatile natural gas liquids transported in pressure-rated tank cars. Looking for a railcar loading system that addresses the unique demands of these pressurized transfers, all while optimizing safety and efficiency across Western Canada’s energy sector? Keep reading to learn how Northern Platforms can help!
What Type of Railcar is Used for LPG Transport?
Unlike unpressurized railcars that transport agricultural products, diesel, and other liquids, pressurized tank cars are necessary for propane/butane. These tankers feature protective housing to transport gases at pressures above 40 psi safely. Pressurized tankers also often have a steel jacket and thermal protection to protect against fire hazards.
Why are Railcar Loading Platforms Important?
Generally speaking, platforms and racks are essential parts of any railcar loading system. These fall protection systems allow workers to safely and comfortably complete tasks on top of a railcar, such as inspecting, loading, and unloading. The best railcar loading platform will easily adjust to vehicles of different heights, specifications, and designs. When working with specialized cargo, such as propane or butane, your loading platform might include additional safety features or integrations to meet specific requirements.
Essential Systems for Safe LPG Loading
For natural gas railcar loading platforms, your system should include the following key features:
1. Loading Platforms & Gangways
Operations that regularly load and unload propane and butane are subject to strict NFPA 58 standards. When you partner with Northern Platforms, we’ll ensure that your loading rack complies with regulations and helps protect your workers at every step. These loading platforms include key safety measures including:
Emergency shut-off valves at all railcar connection points.
Remote or automatic shut-off that is triggered in the event of fires, leaks, or railcar rollaways.
An integrated system of loading arms, hoses, gangways, and safety cages for complete fall protection.
In addition to railcar loading platforms, gangways are also critical to help promote safe operator access. For example, SafeRack’s FRT telescoping gangway features these safety features:
Slip-resistant surfaces for safe loading in all environments.
17″ telescoping range to accommodate complex access demands.
Integrated handrails and guardrails for complete fall protection.
2. Loading Arms
Now that your workers are protected from falls, they can safely and efficiently complete loading and unloading tasks with a LPG-specific loading arm system. Typically, LPG loading and unloading operations use a bullhorn setup. This style of loading arm includes two vertical drop hoses, allowing for two liquid lines to connect to your railcar with only one loading arm. Pair this with a single vapour recovery arm to capture any excess gas for a safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant system.
3. Dry Disconnects
Spills can be hazardous to your workers and the environment when dealing with propane and butane. You can virtually eliminate all accidental discharge by installing dry disconnect couplings at the end of your loading arms. Lately, these solutions from OPW have grown in popularity due to their simplicity and enhanced protection. Contact us today to learn more about our exclusive partnership with OPW.
Western Canada’s LPG Loading Experts
Northern Platforms combines 20+ years of experience with exclusive partnerships to deliver railcar loading platforms engineered for ultimate safety and efficiency. With complete turkey services, the Northern Platforms team will be with you from initial design to final installation. Interested in learning more about how our systems support LPG transfers that meet Alberta’s stringent emissions standards? Contact our team today to discuss our experience or start planning your project! If you are in Alberta, we can have a specialist visit your site within hours. Let’s increase the efficiency and safety of your operation together.
Overflow spills, static fires…these are just some of the risks of unsafe fuel tanker loading systems. But did you know that you can easily prevent these dangers by investing in the proper equipment? In this guide, we’ll explore practical solutions to common fuel tanker loading mistakes. With a couple of simple products from Northern Platforms, your oil and gas operation will be safer and more efficient.
1. Overflow Spills
Depending on the scope, oil and gas spills can range from inconvenient to catastrophic. Even when operators are careful, a loading arm or hose can be accidentally dislodged, causing environmental damage and worker harm in seconds.
The Solution: Dry Disconnects
OPW’s dry disconnect couplings eliminate residual product spills by automatically sealing both sides of the connection. By using one simple solution, operators don’t have to worry about shutting valves or dealing with unions. Instead, you can ensure complete spill protection by upgrading to these couplings on all your loading arms.
2. Static Ignition Fires
Operators must be careful of static buildup when loading a fuel tanker, which can cause dangerous fires. One of the main ways static builds up is through turbulence and agitation inside the fuel tank during loading, especially when using traditional top-loading methods. These systems often cause splashing and sloshing, quickly increasing the amount of static electricity generated.
The Solution: Bottom Loading Arms
The best way to minimize liquid agitation and turbulence is to use bottom-loading arms. These fuel tanker loading systems are closer to the ground and help introduce fuel into the tank with minimal agitation.
3. Falls From Height
Falls are a leading cause of injury at loading sites, especially when workers need to access the tops of trucks or railcars for venting, inspection, or loading. Most Canadian regulations require fall protection for anyone working at heights of 4 meters or more or where a fall could cause serious injury. Icy surfaces, unstable work platforms, and other unsafe operations can turn routine loading tasks into serious fall hazards, leading to costly injuries and downtime.
The Solution: Fall Protection Systems
Safety swing gates, guardrails, gangways, and safety cages are all easy fall protection solutions that protect your workers from falling hazards. These passive fall protection systems are always in place, meaning your workers will always be protected even when distracted or busy. Plus, when you design a system with Northern Platforms, we’ll seamlessly integrate these fall protection products into your loading operations, minimizing disruption.
4. Equipment Failure Leaks
Does your site rely on hoses for loading and unloading your fuel tankers? While these systems have been trusted for many years, they have some significant drawbacks. Hoses can twist, break down, and leak over time, significantly slowing your operations. In the worst-case scenario, you might be on the hook for costly clean-ups or equipment replacements.
The Solution: Loading Arms
Are you tired of lugging hoses around your site? It might be time to invest in a loading arm. With high-quality fabrication and top-notch engineering, loading arms ensure a tight and safe connection throughout the transfer cycle. Available in truck, rail, and specialty configurations–with options for vapor recovery–these arms deliver leak-proof performance, simplify maintenance, and protect both workers and the environment.
Choose Northern Platforms for Comprehensive Fuel Tanker Loading Systems
While mistakes happen, there are still easy ways to prevent common fuel loading accidents. With a couple of products from Northern Platforms, you can take a proactive approach to protecting against fuel spills, static fires, and more. Ready to upgrade your safety protocols? Contact the Northern Platforms team today! With just one site assessment, our experts will analyze your workflow, recommend solutions, and improve your site. Partner with our team by calling us today!
