Whether your trucks need loading, inspection, or venting, a reliable truck-loading platform will make the process easier and safer. As Canada’s leading distributor of Saferack equipment, Northern Platforms can help you get the products you need for a safe and efficient loading operation. We distribute only the safest, most durable products—these are non-negotiable for industries handling hazardous and potentially hazardous materials.
If you’re looking to add a reliable truck loading platform to your assets, read more below about how we can help you find the best product.
The Benefits of Saferack Products
Our team is happy to be a trusted distributor of Saferack products. With a 500 lb load capacity, solid tires, configuration capabilities, and a double-locking winch, the Saferack truck loading platform offers long-term safety you can rely on. The flawless design of this platform allows it to be easily adjustable and safely moved. It comes in two configurations: parallel and perpendicular. A perpendicular setup allows spotters to more easily spot tank trucks, while a parallel setup allows you to move the platform more easily in tight spaces. Saferack makes replacement parts for their products, ensuring that your investment in truck loading platforms goes further. As a trusted brand in truck loading operations, Saferack gives you better value for your money, all from a knowledgeable distributor.
Why Use Northern Platforms as Your Distributor?
Sometimes, you need things in a pinch. If your safety equipment breaks or goes missing, you need to be able to get access to new products quickly so as not to disrupt operations. Not obtaining new equipment can lead to unsafe practices or stalled operations, both of which can end up costing the business. That’s why we always do everything in our power to ensure you get the things you need, when you need them.
We work with many industries, including oil and gas, marine, rail, agriculture, and pulp and paper. The truck loading platforms we bring you are compatible with loading operations for cement, sand, sulphur, mining, biodiesel, and more. Our staff are aware of the complications that can arise with the range of materials often being transported and will ask you questions to help us help you find the right solution. Depending on the trucks you need to access and for what reason, our recommendations will change. Whatever the nature of the need, our supply of Saferack products means you can get the truck loading platforms you trust, today.
Turnkey Products from Trustworthy Experts
Let one of our dedicated staff come to you onsite to ensure we get an accurate and timely assessment of your needs. We will question you about your problems and find you a solution based on the provided information and what we see. With fast turnaround times, Northern Platforms is the top distributor of safe loading solutions in Canada.
Let Northern Platforms be your source for comprehensive truck loading platform equipment. Contact our team today to start a conversation regarding your operations, and we will reach out as soon as possible.
Are you in search of a safe access solution that doesn’t require permanent space? Especially in smaller facilities, dedicating precious space to a permanent access solution may not be feasible. When that happens, there are other options available!
Northern Platforms is here to help. With brands like ErectaStep, SafeRack, and RollaStep in our inventory, we are a dependable choice for trustworthy Canadian access equipment. No matter your industry—oil and gas, marine, pulp and paper, agriculture, rail—Northern Platforms has loading and safety equipment made for you. Learn more about our portable stairs, and Northern Platforms, below.
Safety and Mobility in One
The mobility of portable stairs is its main attraction. Usable in a variety of locations for a plethora of reasons, ErectaStep portable stairs easily roll across your building to increase safety and productivity. A broad base and handrails support stable climbing without compromising on mobility. Employees can carry products and tools with a lower risk of incurring fall injuries. We understand that safety is not only a legal risk but that you care for your employees’ health and safety, too. For your operations, Northern Platforms can help you find whatever safe access equipment is required.
Versatility and Simplicity
In comparison to a permanent floor structure, portable stairs take up less space and can be positioned in a new location as needed. As such, their footprint is greatly reduced. Make navigating your facility significantly easier without increasing your spending dramatically—portable stairs can move to where you need access solutions. So long as your employees are trained in fall protection, our selection of portable stairs is effective for all ground, whether level or not.
ErectaStep Portable Stairs
In particular, ErectaStep’s metal stairs are prefabricated and come with a broad base for stability and are fitted with non-slip tread. The bolt-together design allows unlimited configurations—saving you time and money on lengthy engineering. It comes in a few different sizes to account for facility, use and movability. An adjustable height and aluminum frame means a fast installation process and safe climbing for you and your workers.
ErectaStep is fully IBC and OSHA compliant. Northern Platforms only distributes quality materials because we understand the reasons behind stringent safety regulations. For technical specs, including BIM/CAD files and LEED/HPD information, contact us today.
Only Quality at Northern Platforms
For 20 years, Northern Platforms has been providing Canada with loading platforms, stairs, swing gates, and more. Our family-owned business is based out of Alberta, and our employees aim to meet your needs with incredible service and support. From turnkey installation to maintenance to personalized customer service, Northern Platforms is Western Canada’s go-to distributor.
We work hard to ensure you get the products you need with fast turnaround service. Your equipment will arrive on-site and be installed within days, not weeks, as we do our best to have equipment on hand to cut down on turnaround time. Find the OPW Engineered Systems, ErectaStep, Saferack, and YellowGate products from someone you trust: contact Northern Platforms today.
Access platforms are essential pieces of equipment that can significantly impact production and safety. The goal is to make durable, versatile platforms and ErectaStep platforms stand out among the rest. With features like corrosion resistance, compliance with regulatory bodies like OSHA, and reconfigurable elements, this platform is perfect for all industries and facilities.
If you’re considering investing in a modular work platform, learn about the benefits of the inventory we have at Northern Platforms by reading below.
Easy Installation
When it comes to safety, time is of the essence. Whatever modular work platform equipment a company has should be easy to set up and use. While some access platforms can be time-consuming and difficult to install, opting for an easy-install access solution will negate unnecessary delays and additional costs. ErectaStep modular access platforms offer easy installation and configuration, saving valuable time. Northern Platforms’ line of modular work platforms is quality equipment that businesses across many industries trust for safe access.
Reusability and Mobility
Often, organizations are looking for repurposable mobility. A modular work platform should not only serve its current purpose but be flexible enough to be reconfigured to serve future projects as well. For industries where there are multiple projects in need attention and safety features, Northern Platforms has a comprehensive inventory of modular work platforms to tackle all configurations from simple to complex. Whether you need repositioning or complete repurposing, having a reusable access platform ensures efficiency and safety.
Corrosion Resistance
When a facility’s outdoor areas need modular work platforms, it’s important to obtain work platforms that are resistant to weather challenges. Modular platforms with corrosion resistant materials remain intact over time, free from rust and corrosion that can become a hazard. Investing in a modular work platform that will last for the long term will ensure worker safety and enhance productivity.
Slip Resistance
High-traffic areas, especially ones where workers may be transporting goods or materials or be otherwise distracted, require access solutions with proper precautions. Reduce the risk of slips and falls by opting for slip-resistant access platforms. Slip resistant coatings are critical for preventing accidents and in maintaining a safe workplace. ErectaStep modular work platforms provides sure footing even in uncertain conditions.
Safety Compliance
Required certifications and compliances act as a barrier for mitigating potential hazards. Find an OSHA and IBC compliant platform to ensure cooperation with industry standards. At Northern Platforms, we carry compliant stairs and platforms that petrochemical and oil and gas industries all over Canada use for smooth operations.
Northern Platforms Goes the Extra Mile
For over 20 years, Northern Platforms has been a trusted provider of loading operation equipment, access platforms, gangways, and more to organizations all over Canada. Our modular work platforms offer a range of configurations to address multiple problems for any project. Let our team consult with you to determine the best safe access solution.
Contact Northern Platforms to learn more about our inventory of ErectaStep modular work platforms, or call us at 1-844-426-4929.
Investing in safety does more than simply mitigate the risk of employee injury while on the job site; the right system can prevent spillage, damage to machines and trucks, and increase company assets. A skilled company that brings years of experience to the table can help you invest in the fall protection system specific to your worksite.
Not all fall protection systems are made equal. At Northern Platforms, we help you to find the solution you need to ensure a safe working environment. Turnkey loading solutions are how you can optimize your loading and unloading process, and we are proud to be distributors of top brands like OPW Engineered Systems and Saferack. If you’re looking for railcar fall protection systems, find out more about what Northern Platforms supplies below.
Understanding Fall Protection Systems
Railyards often need specialized fall protection gear to safeguard the safety and efficiency of workers, equipment and materials. Fall protection systems are comprised of multiple parts that work in tandem to ensure your operations are safe and efficient. Northern Platform’s extensive knowledge and decades of experience help us to find custom solutions for your worksite. Let us design and install the proper safe access solutions onsite for you.
Whether you are looking to upgrade old systems or to install new ones, anticipate your worksite’s needs by implementing safety cages, operator gangways, spill protection, and more with Northern Platforms.
When Are You in Need of Railcar Fall Protection?
Railcar fall protection systems are meant for railyards that work with a variety of materials:
Hydrocarbon and refined fuels (like jet fuel, diesel, and gasoline)
Liquid natural gas (propane, ethane, butane)
Liquid asphalt from refineries
Ammonia
We stock quality, durable systems such as SafeRack, Emco Wheaton, OPW, and Ultratech. Our team understands that there is never a one-and-done solution for such complex and different materials. When you talk to our team, we will help you find the prevention equipment you need to ensure a good working environment for all.
Partner With Northern Platforms!
Based in Leduc, Alberta, Northern Platforms is a family-owned business whose goal is to assist businesses in agriculture, pulp and paper, oil and gas, rail, marine, and more to meet safety standards. Our professionals are ready and willing to design, install, and maintain your railcar fall protection systems for a better day’s work. Your expert in gangways, safety cages, spill containment and more, Northern Platforms operates with the sole purpose of helping businesses like yours to ensure their worksites are as safe and effective as possible.
Since 2002, businesses all over Canada have trusted us to provide them with the safe access solutions they require. We take pride in making business relationships that will last a long time so that you know that you can always come to us for your safety access equipment, loading racks, and loading arms. Contact Northern Platforms to get started on design a railcar fall protection system that suits your operation’s needs. Or, call 1-844-426-4929 to speak to a representative today.
Operators and the area around the fuel tanker are at risk during loading and unloading. Your highest priorities are keeping employees safe and the land free from contamination. The scale of your loading operations will impact the necessary fuel tanker loading equipment and what is necessary for a safe operation. Whether you are transporting water, ammonia, biodiesel, or something else, it’s your duty to create reliable loading operations that you and your team can count on.
Northern Platforms has the equipment you need to maximize your working systems’ potential. Keep reading to learn how we can help you obtain the most reliable, safe equipment tailored to your needs.
Bottom Loading Arms
Northern Platform’s bottom loading arms are an industry standard in oil and gas for a reason. The fuel tanker loading equipment you use will affect the loading time, as bottom loading arms reduce vapour pressure and, therefore, the length of loading. As we move into fall, the cooler temperatures can affect your loading operations. Our OPW Bottom Loading Arm Systems are ideal for quicker connections, reducing static electricity, and reducing expenses. With trustworthy brands like OPW and Emco Wheaton at your disposal, you can streamline production for your fuel tanker loading operations through quality products at Northern Platforms.
Ensure Safe Loading
With the right bottom loading arms, you are minimizing the time required per load. But much like we do not ask for a car without airbags, having the loading arms without proper safety equipment puts you at high risk of something going wrong. The following are some of the safety measures we offer:
Bottom-Loading Couplers: Ready for same-day shipment only at Northern Platforms. A five-year warranty and automatic latching are just two reasons this coupler is the best in the business.
Breakaway Couplings:Designed for easy release in the event of an accidental pull-away.
Grounding & Overfill Systems:For grounding and overfill systems, Northern Platforms supplies Civacon and Scully overfill monitors with extensive interface compatibility, signals for automatic shutoff, and more.
& More: Take a look through our complete catalogue of loading system accessories.
If you are in the oil and gas industry, bottom loading arms are the perfect fuel tanker loading equipment. Combined with the above safety features, you’ll ensure proper attention is given to people and processes.
Your Trusted Source for Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment
Northern Platforms is a family owned business local to Alberta, Canada, looking to help you meet strict regulatory requirements and make your worksite safer. As a platinum distributor for OPW Engineered Systems, we help you get your hands on cost-effective solutions. Our expert team is committed to creating long-term partnerships with our clients to ensure their satisfaction. Take advantage of our turnkey services and informed staff, and find a solution that is custom to you.
Get in touch with us today to talk about how we can provide quick delivery for the parts and equipment you need on-site. A member of Northern Platforms will reach out as soon as possible to help.
The oil and gas industry encounters many challenges during loading and unloading operations as it must adhere to several safety, industry, and environmental regulations. This can make determining the best possible loading system for your operations challenging. Fortunately, with over twenty years of experience providing Canadian companies with top-quality access and loading solutions, Northern Platforms is here to help.
Below, we will compare hoses and loading arms and then walk you through the three main styles of loading arms, helping you determine which would be best for your oil and gas operations. Continue reading to learn more.
Hoses vs. Loading Arms: Some Considerations
You have several options when searching for the correct loading solution for your operations. However, you must first decide whether you will utilize hoses or loading arms. While loading arms tends to be the industry standard for oil and gas operations, many companies do opt to use hoses for a number of reasons.
Before looking further into one or the other, let’s look at a few things you should consider before deciding that hoses or loading arms are your best choice.
Hoses:
Requires regular annual pressure tests
Can be difficult to stow when not in use
Can be driven over or dropped
May be very heavy to use if fitted with a valve at the tanker connection point
Faces challenges when heated or features a vent/purge valve
May be prone to catastrophic failure
Loading Arms:
Provides balanced and easy movement for various loading applications
Designed not to hit the ground, protecting the valves and couplers
Can be operated by one person
May be fitted with manual or actuated liquid valves and optional purge/vent components
May be moved into position with ease and left hanging in the air while the operator prepares the tanker connection
Can easily be stowed away when not in use
At Northern Platforms, we strongly recommend that oil and gas operations stick with the obvious and safer choice–loading arms. As a trusted distributor of OPW Engineered Systems products, we carry a wide range of loading arms that are perfect for oil and gas loading/unloading applications.
Next, we will provide a short overview of the three main styles of oil and gas loading arms Northern Platforms carries. That way, you can determine which would be best for your operations.
Top Loading Arms
Top loading arms provide tanker truck and railcar loading operations with an efficient and cost-effective means of handling oil and gas liquid products. A top loading arm system from Northern Platforms can provide your operations the protection your workers need to complete their duties efficiently without worrying about potential hazards like spills.
When selecting the right top loading arm for your oil and gas operations, our team will consider vehicle heights, required reach, vehicle spotting, material compatibility and more. At Northern Platforms, we can outfit your top loading arms for tight-fill, vapour recovery, marine, oil and gas, and other applications, ensuring your loading/unloading operations are safe and efficient.
Bottom Loading Arms
Bottom loading arms are the industry’s top choice when explicitly searching for loading arms for oil and gas applications. This is because bottom loading arms from Northern Platforms aid in reducing vapours and the risk of static electricity as they produce less turbulence in the tanker during loading.
Additionally, our bottom loading arms can be outfitted with vapour recovery components and quick-connect fittings to help speed up your loading/unloading times. With their improved ergonomics and enhanced safety, it’s no wonder Northern Platforms’ bottom loading arms are the industry standard for oil and gas operations.
Specialty/Custom Loading Arms
As the oil and gas industry has evolved to include biofuels and great environmental awareness, your loading system may require stringent features to ensure enhanced safety and eco-friendly fluid transfer practices.
At Northern Platforms, we can create specialty/custom loading arms for your oil and gas operations. From hatch plates and plugs to electric heat trace with insulation blankets, steam jacketing, or ContoTrace, we can ensure your loading system meets strict health/safety and environmental regulations.
Your Canadian Source for Safe Loading Solutions
While bottom-loading arms are often the best option for the oil and gas industry, other options may be better suited depending on your unique applications and facility requirements. Northern Platforms’ team is here to help you determine the best loading system solutions for your oil and gas operations. So, don’t hesitate to contact us, and let our team walk you through your options.
Together, we can ensure your loading/unloading operations are safe, efficient, and meet strict regulations.
