An essential part of many Albertan industries, tanker trucks transport essential chemicals, food products, and water on a daily basis. However, without proper fall protection, these essential trailers can become dangerous work sites. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of a truck loading platform—including how they are used, what industries rely on them, and the elements that make up the ideal system. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Truck Loading Platform?
A truck loading platform is a specialized access system designed to provide safe, elevated access to the tops of tanker trucks and trailers during loading and unloading operations. These platforms typically consist of a sturdy steel or aluminum structure with integrated stairs, handrails, and safety features that allow workers to safely reach truck hatches, connection points, and inspection areas. By utilizing these systems, workers are protected from the significant safety risks of vehicle-mounted ladders.
Common Industrial Uses for Truck Loading Platforms
In today’s industrial world, tanker trucks are used to transport a wide variety of items. Here are some common industries that use tanker truck loading platforms daily.
Chemicals and Refined Fuels
As Alberta’s leading sector, oil and gas facilities rely on loading platforms to safely load and unload the hazardous materials they deal with on a daily basis.
Uses: In addition to basic access, operators will use a truck loading rack to connect loading arms, vent overfills, and monitor transfer operations.
Special Considerations: When dealing with harsh chemicals, pay close attention to the materials of your loading system. Opt for a strong and corrosion-resistant material like stainless steel.
Food and Beverage Operations
Food and beverage facilities across Canada require truck loading platforms that meet the highest sanitary standards while maintaining worker safety during liquid ingredient transfers.
Uses: Typically, workers in the food and beverage industry use loading platforms to inspect hatch seals for contamination prevention, connect food-grade hoses and loading arms, collect quality control samples, and monitor transfer operations of milk, juices, cooking oils, and liquid sweeteners.
Special Considerations: Food-grade materials and seals are a must for food and beverage operations. Northern Platforms has extensive experience building systems that meet or exceed the stringent sanitary regulations in this industry.
Bulk Water Stations
Remote locations and Northern communities depend on water filling trucks to access clean drinking water. However, without adequate fall protection, operators face a large risk of catastrophic injury.
Uses: Operators use these platforms to safely access the tops of water tanker trucks and provide potable water to local residents.
Special Considerations: Many Northern Canadian communities rely on truck fill stations. However, these areas also deal with harsh temperatures which demand systems that function up to -40°C. With over two decades of experience working with cold temperatures, Northern Platforms regularly builds systems that are built for the climate.
A platform to provide a solid foundation and stable work surface for workers.
Gangways are used to connect the main platform to the vehicle and protect operators from falling. Northern Platforms stocks three different gangway options which are suitable for a variety of applications. We recommend adding a safety cage to end of your gangway for complete protection.
Finally, pair your platform with a loading arm for smooth loading and unloading operations. These systems are sturdier and safer than hoses and can significantly increase the efficiency of your operation.
How Northern Platforms Can Help
With over 20 years of experience designing, building, and installing custom truck loading platforms, Northern Platforms is your trusted partner for all things fall protection. We have experience building tanker truck loading platforms for a variety of industries, including oil and gas operations, food and beverage facilities, municipal water filling stations, and more. Here’s how our process works:
On-site Consultation: Our convenient Central Alberta location means that we can be on your site within a couple of hours. Once we arrive, we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your operational requirements, safety challenges, and more.
Truck Loading Platform Design: Next, we’ll draw on decades of collective experience to design a tanker truck loading system that integrates seamlessly into your site. Our designs consider everything from material compatibility to local safety regulations. We’ll also provide a cost estimate at this stage.
Turnkey Installation: Avoid the headache of working with multiple contractors—Northern Platforms can take care of it all. With our turnkey installation services, we’ll ensure that your platform, gangway, and loading arm work together.
Request a Quote Today!
Ready to upgrade your truck loading platform? Call Northern Platforms today! Let’s work together to make your site safer and more efficient.
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!
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!
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!
Efficient, safe, and effective–bottom loading arms are a worthwhile addition to your loading system.
Northern Platforms offers a wide selection of trusted and ergonomic bottom-loading arms from established brands like OPW Engineered Systems and EMCO Wheaton. Ready to integrate bottom-loading arms into your operation? Let’s go over some key things to consider before you make this purchase.
What are Bottom Loading Arms?
As the name suggests, bottom loading arms are used when loading from the bottom and should be paired with trucks or railcars that accommodate a bottom loading configuration.
Bottom-loading arms are a safer and more efficient alternative to hoses. Read more about the difference between hoses and loading arms in our previous post: “Hoses vs Loading Arms: Which Works Best?”
Here are some more advantages of bottom-loading arms:
Operator safety: Workers remain on the ground, which reduces fall risks.
Faster loading: Quicker connections and the ability to load multiple compartments at the same time.
Less turbulence: The process generates less turbulence in the tank, which helps lower static generation.
Less vapours: Fewer vapours are released, which helps lessen the environmental impact.
More cost-effective: Typically, these systems are easier and cheaper to build than top-loading arms.
Key Considerations for Choosing Bottom Loading Arms
There are several factors to consider when choosing your bottom loading arm. It is essential to consider your existing operation to ensure that you can find the right equipment for you.
If you aren’t sure where to start, contact Northern Platforms, and we will be happy to help you find a loading configuration that integrates seamlessly into your existing operation.
What type of fluid are you handling?
First, it is important to ensure that the materials of your bottom loading arm are compatible with the fluid you are moving.
For example, if you are moving corrosive substances, you will want to ensure that your bottom loading arms are made of a corrosion-resistant material like stainless steel. However, if you are moving non-hazardous materials, you could use carbon steel, which is often cheaper and lighter.
What type of vehicle are you loading?
Whether you are loading a tanker truck or a railcar, the type of vehicle you are loading affects the design of your bottom loading arms. Keep in mind that different vehicles have specific connection points and height requirements. Make sure to choose an arm that can easily reach and securely connect to your vehicle to avoid leaks and operational issues.
What is your loading environment like?
Your loading environment can significantly impact the type of loading arm you need. Consider: is there existing equipment that would interfere with your loading arm? Do you need an operation that is suitable for outdoor use? Are there other environmental factors you should consider, like extreme temperatures or exposure to hazardous chemicals?
What additional safety equipment do you need?
While bottom loading arms are a good start, there are always ways to make your site safer and more efficient. At Northern Platforms, we offer extra safety equipment to help ensure that your loading system operates smoothly and safely.
While bottom loading arms can improve the efficiency and safety of your loading and unloading operations, working with an experienced team is essential to ensure this new addition integrates seamlessly into your existing operation. That’s where Northern Platforms comes in. We’ll consider your existing equipment and ensure your new loading arm fits perfectly.
With over 50 years of industry experience, Northern Platforms is always happy to send one of our experts to your site. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation every time to help guarantee a perfect match. Contact us today to find the loading arm that is right for you.
When it comes to loading a fuel tanker, proper loading equipment is essential. By using the right equipment, you can maximize workplace efficiency, as well as significantly reduce the risk of accidents and spills. At Northern Platforms, we are proud to be industry-leading providers of renowned safety brands like SafeRack, Emco Wheaton, OPW, and more.
Whether you need loading arms, loading platforms, gangways, safety cages, or hoses, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to learn more about our top fuel tanker loading equipment.
Loading Arms
The safest and most efficient piece of fuel tanker loading equipment is a loading arm. These loading systems are designed to seamlessly and securely connect the fuel tanker to the storage tank. Loading arms can also include several safety features, such as swivel joints, automatic shut-off valves, and more. By using loading arms, companies can minimize the risks associated with manual connections and enhance operational safety.
Are looking to integrate a loading arm into your existing operation? Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced sales team members and learn more about how Northern Platforms can help.
Hoses and Couplings
If your operation isn’t compatible with a loading arm, then you will have to use a different type of fuel tanker loading equipment, such as hoses and couplings.
At Northern Platforms, we offer a complete selection of custom hose assemblies supplied to meet your specific requirements and individual needs. We stock a variety of hose sizes in-house, ranging from ¼-inch to 6-inch. Plus, larger sizes are available upon request.
We offer three different types of hoses:
Composite Hoses: A unique type of hose composed of many layers of special materials/films held together between an inner and outer wire. Composite hoses offer flexibility, safety, and chemical resistance. They are ideal for use in most petroleum, oil, chemical, and LPG transfer applications.
Metal Braided Hoses: Northern Platforms offers a wide variety of specialized products, such as stainless steel braids, metal hoses, and flexible hose assemblies.
Industrial Hoses: Northern Platforms is proud to offer a full line of industrial hoses, including rubber, PTFE, air/water, steam, and suction/discharge hoses
In addition to hoses, Northern Platforms offers several fuel tanker loading accessories, including:
Hiltap fittings, also known as low/high temperature & pressure couplings
Hose handlers and hose retriever components
Sight flow indicators
Swivel joints
Hose and coupling restraints, such as velcro straps and whip checks
Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment, Tested
Did you know that Northern Platforms offers in-house hose testing and recertification up to 1200 PSI? Each hose comes with a chart showing the duration of the test and the pressure it was tested to.
Additionally, we can also help you test your hoses to ensure they are in good working condition. To make sure your hoses meet safety standards, Northern Platforms offers hose recertification testing. We’ll test your hoses, and if they pass, they’ll be recertified with a new ID tag. If they don’t, we can tag them and recycle them for you.
Your Source for Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment
No matter what your operation looks like, Northern Platforms has all your safe access and fuel tanker loading equipment needs covered. We are committed to providing our customers with superior quality products, on-time delivery, and outstanding service. Contact us today to learn more about how you can make your fuel tanker loading system safer and more efficient.
