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!