British Columbia rail and industrial operations require robust fall protection and loading systems that comply with local regulations, help protect workers, and stand the test of time. Northern Platforms designs, supplies, and installs rail access systems, industrial platforms, and guardrails that do all this—and more. Keep reading to learn more about effective railcar loading systems in BC and how our company can help. 

Railcar Loading Requirements in British Columbia

WorkSafe BC

In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC requires fall protection when workers can fall 3 m (10 ft) or where a lesser height presents greater risk than a flat‑surface impact, which commonly applies around rail loading racks, platforms, and mezzanine edges. Most sites use permanent guardrails to address these risks; however, these solutions aren’t practical for some sites. In these cases, BC requires a written plan before work begins and clear instructions to workers. 

The Railway Safety Act

For facilities located on or working with federally regulated railway corridors (such as those operated by CN), additional obligations may apply. The Railway Safety Act addresses broader rail operational safety, including track maintenance, railway equipment, signal systems, grade crossings, dangerous goods handling, and the operating rules that control how workers and equipment interact with rail infrastructure. Northern Platforms designs systems that satisfy both provincial and national regulations, ensuring your facility meets all applicable requirements.

Complete Railcar Loading Systems for BC Operations

There are several elements of an ideal railcar loading system for British Columbia sites, including:

• Railcar access systems: gangways, tank car safety cages, and guardrails designed to satisfy WorkSafeBC fall protection requirements.
• Industrial access platforms and guardrails: fixed/modular platforms, mezzanine gates, and compliant guardrail systems meeting BC height and load criteria and acceptable standards.
• Additional safety systems: Beyond fall protection, we stock a variety of products that promote safe railcar loading, including wheel chocks, blue flags, and more. 

Additional Products for BC Operations

British Columbia’s diverse industries—from marine terminals to forestry operations—require specialized access and fall protection solutions beyond railcar loading systems. Northern Platforms supplies a complete range of products designed for BC’s unique operational environments:

• Marine Gangways: Corrosion-resistant SafeRack marine gangways designed for BC’s ports, shipyards, and barge operations. Learn more about SafeRack Marine Gangways.
• Loading Arms: Upgrade your loading and unloading operations with OPW loading arms that are tailored to the needs of your industry. As a turnkey system provider, Northern Platforms will ensure your loading arms integrate seamlessly with your platforms and gangways.
• Modular Platform Systems: Bolt-together ErectaStep platforms requiring no welding—ideal for pulp and paper mills, food processing facilities, and operations with hot-work permit restrictions.

For more information about building a complete WorkSafeBC-compliant system for your BC operation, contact Northern Platforms today.

Serving British Columbia Industries 

Northern Platforms provides fall protection systems and loading equipment to operations across BC, including:

• Vancouver
• Prince Rupert
• Mission
• Courtenay

Get Started with Northern Platforms Today!

Your British Columbia railcar loading systems depend on design and installation that meet local conditions and WorkSafeBC regulations. Whether you are operating a Vancouver port facility, a Prince George transloading terminal, or an interior BC rail yard, Northern Platforms brings regional expertise and proven experience to every single contract. Plus, as a complete turnkey service provider, we can provide everything from comprehensive railcar loading system design to ongoing and consistent maintenance.

Ready to ensure your BC railcar loading systems meet local compliance and safety standards? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation site assessment. Our specialists will evaluate your facility, recommend optimal solutions, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. Get in touch today to get started!

Call: (780) 986-8825

Request a quote: Online now 

About Northern Platforms

Northern Platforms is the Western Canadian leader in industrial access solutions, specializing in fall protection systems and turnkey installation services for oil and gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. We supply some of the best products on the market, including SafeRack, ErectaStep, OPW, and more.