Looking for mobile truck access solutions that make it easy to load and unload within an industrial environment? Choosing the right kind of loading product involves the evaluation of several factors, including the nature of your cargo, fleet, number of hatches, and more. Northern Platforms makes it easy to find the right with a versatile inventory of solutions, including exclusive access to SafeRack products for Western Canada. For nearly two decades, we’ve offered our clients unparalleled service, unbeatable products, and most importantly: safety solutions you can trust. Below we’ll highlight one of SafeRack’s leading solutions for truck loading; the MAUI. Read on to learn how this incredible system can help protect both your crew and your equipment!
There’s a New Champion in Town
As we mentioned above, there’s no shortage of factors that go into selecting the right safe loading solutions for truck cargo. Elements such as what you’re hauling, the size and capabilities of your fleet, as well as your loading facility itself will all influence what kind of products are best suited for your operation. Knowing the specifics of your site and fleet will make finding the right fit much easier, and allow you peace of mind once you set your new system in place. For those look for a versatile and highly dependable option, SafeRack’s MAUI unit is a fantastic fit.
Built from the highest quality materials and backed by SafeRack’s reputation for excellence, the MAUI offers excellent durability with minimal maintenance needs. Equipped to handle loads of up to 500lbs, MAUI has solid no flat tires and is able to be reconfigured as needed for optimal convenience. MAUI’s OSHA compliant design is available in parallel and perpendicular configurations and its versatile nature makes it a vital asset to any safe loading fleet.
SafeRack Truck Loading Equipment, ONLY at Northern Platforms
Northern Platforms is Alberta and Western Canada’s exclusive distributor of SafeRack products, including their line of MAUI solutions. SafeRack’s exceptional reputation for performance and longevity has made them one of the most respected manufacturers in the industry, as well as the go-to source for the heavy industrial sectors. SafeRack’s dedication to safety and performance makes each of its products trustworthy and a valuable investment for your daily operations both in-house and in the field
As Western Canada’s exclusive SafeRack partner, Northern Platforms is pleased to offer our customers access to SafeRack’s incredible range of products, including the Maui Truck Mobile Access unit and much more. Contact our team today to learn more about Maui, SafeRack, as well as Northern Platforms’ extensive range of safe access and loading solutions!
If you’re in search of trusted loading solutions that allow you to safely transfer crude oil, Northern Platforms is on your side. With over 2 decades serving Canadians as a trusted distributor of safe loading and access equipment, our team is proud to offer you access to a wide range of tools, including crude oil loading arms from manufacturers like OPW and Emco Wheaton. Below, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider when choosing crude oil loading arms. Read on to learn more!
Why the Right Fit Matters
Loading arms are essential to aiding your operations for 2 main purposes: safety and efficiency. No matter what you’re transporting safety is a vital part of your operations, and specific products like crude oil will have unique requirements where loading and unloading is concerned. Ensuring you have the right fit not only keeps your process fast and productive, but also makes sure that everyone is safe in the process. Key considerations to finding your right fit include:
What Size of Loading Arm Do You Need?
Rail and truck loading arms typically range in size from 2″ to 6″. Knowing what size of loading arm is best suited to your operation, as well as knowing how it’s going to integrate with your existing platform/system plays an important role in finding the best fit.
Are You Loading Trucks or Railcars
While both are common for the safe transport of crude oil, trucks and railcars have different sizing and load specifications, so you’ll need to consider the exact needs of your transport carriers when selecting a loading arm. You will also need to know if you truck or railcar will be spotted right at the gangway each time or if your loading arm will need some flexibility to allow for miss-spotting of the truck or railcar.
How Are You Loading?
Crude oil is typically loaded either to atmosphere, also called splash loading, or via tight connection thorough the fill tube on the railcar. Depending on your setup, you’ll want to find the right fit for your loading arm to prevent mishaps. For example if you’re loading to atmosphere, if you are going to be doing vapor recovery you need to consider if you’re looking for a hatch plate, hatch plug, or inflatable hatch seal. Each with have unique needs that need to be dealt with.
Are You Loading Straight Crude Oil, or Oil That Has Been Diluted?
One of the major challenges of transporting and loading crude oil is preventing it from becoming overly viscous. Typically to make shipping crude oil easier condensate is added to crude oil to dilute it and make it easier to pump/ship. If you are not handling diluted bitumen, commonly referred to as Dilbit, then you’ll need to keep your loading arms hot to allow the crude oil/bitumen to easily flow through your loading arm. Working with industry leaders like OPW Engineered Systems and Emco Wheaton we can supply your loading arms with a few different styles of heat tracing. We can offer traditional steam jacketing, ControTrace, or electric heat tracing for your loading arm.
Do You Need A Safe Guard For Overfill/Level Detection
Finally, Northern Platforms offers a wide range of loading arms and solutions, including supplying a level probe or overfill sensor which can help prevent costly and dangerous spills on site.
Heavy Duty Loading Solutions at Northern Platforms
If your team is in need of loading and safe access solutions you can count on, Northern Platforms has you covered. For over 20 years, we’ve been Western Canada’s preferred provider of loading products from the top names in the business, and are proud to carry solutions from brands like SafeRack (Northern Platforms is your exclusive source for SafeRack products in Western Canada), OPW, Emco Wheaton and more. When it’s time to tackle the toughest of applications, you can count on us to have your back, both with an inventory you can trust and extensive support services including turnkey installations and more. For more information about our support services, as well as our available crude oil loading arms, contact us today.
Does your loading facility face challenges when it comes to reaching high up spaces as part of your daily operation? Whether you’re in retail fulfillment, the aerospace, marine, oil & gas, railroad, or related industries (to name just a few), rolling stairs and platforms play a vital role in helping to maintain safe standards on the worksite as well as keeping in compliance with OH&S / OSHA regulations. Rolling stairs make it easy for crew members to reach new heights, while also helping to minimize the risks associated with operating at higher levels by providing stability when it matters the most.
Northern Platforms is proud to be one of Western Canada’s leading suppliers of loading and access solutions, including rolling stairs and platforms from both ErectaStep and RollaStep. Below, we’ll explore some of the perks and tips when it comes to using rolling platforms. Read on to learn more!
When Should You Use Rolling Platforms
While there’s no one reason to consider rolling platforms, it is their sheer versatility that makes them such a valuable resource for any operation. Whether you need a stable way of transporting and transferring bulking inventory or retrieving valuable resources for shipment, or simply need an easier way for crew members to reach higher areas of a job site, rolling platforms are there to help. In comparison to other kinds of ladders and elevation systems that lack significant safety features, rolling platforms often include handrails, locking devices, height adjustability and other customizable options to help avoid accidents. This allows for greater performance while minimizing risk and boosting ROI.
Best Practices: Quick Tips
As we mentioned above, rolling platforms are already significantly safer than competing solutions, however, best practices should always be followed to ensure that everyone is operating at the highest level of excellence possible. Below are a few key factors/practices to keep in mind.
Size Matters
Just like choosing a standard ladder, sizing is key to ensuring that your platform sufficiently fits the space(s) it will be used in. The right fit will help to minimize risks and allow your team to get to work comfortably and efficiently. Bear and mind that, when choosing a size, it’s not just a question of spatial allowances, but also the intended purpose for the unit overall, including in other areas should you choose to relocate it on the completion of one project.
Inspect to Protect
Standard safety protocols dictate that all work equipment should be inspected prior to beginning your operations, and platforms are no different. Ensure crew members always give the unit a look over before ascending checking for any visible signs of damage that could compromise structural soundness, as well as ensuring that locks and all other safety features are engaged.
Positioning/Storage
Similar to the above, the unit should always be properly positioned within your location for the best results. Be aware of any safety hazards in the immediate area (water, electrical currents, overhead wires, etc), and position your platform accordingly to minimize risk. When storing between uses, you’ll want to ensure the unit is kept away from any liquids or chemicals (as commonly found in industrial settings) that could create a slick surface that unobservant crew members could miss. Regular upkeep should be a priority as well to reduce the chance of sudden failures.
Train All Parties
Finally, all parties that will use the platforms should undergo specific safety training related to best practices regarding your rolling equipment. No matter how simplistic your equipment may be, education is, and always will be the best asset when it comes to reducing risk!
RollaStep and ErectaStep Solutions and More at Northern Platforms
For over 20, Northern Platforms has served as one of Western Canada’s most trusted suppliers of loading platforms, stairs, racks, and more. As a family-owned company based out of Alberta, we strive to give back and go the extra mile to give our customers unbeatable support when it matters the most by offering turnkey installation services, maintenance assistance, and a vast inventory you can count on. Among our available products, you’ll find a wide range of products including stairs and platforms from RollaStep, ErectaStep, SafeRack (we are the exclusive dealer of SafeRack for Western Canada), and more.
Learn more about our rolling platform solutions as well as our extensive range of other items by contacting our team today!
In need of rugged rolling stair and mobile work platform solutions you can trust? Northern Platforms is here to help! With one of Western Canada’s most diverse inventories of loading products, including RollaStep products, our team has you covered when it’s time to take your operations to new heights. With exceptional customer service and products you can depend on, Northern Platforms is your first choice for all your loading needs. Learn more about our mobile stairs below!
Why Choose RollaStep
When it comes to loading and unloading operations that have to deal with issues faced by height and awkward to reach areas, having safe, efficient, and viable solutions are key for success. With decades of trust and proven performance behind their brand, RollaStep’s range of products stands as an undisputed standby for customers spanning a wide range of industries. With solutions that lead the way in terms of design and innovation, RollaStep is a natural fit when it comes to meeting workplace safety requirements, as we all as streamlining day to day operations. RollaStep prefabricated safety products are customizable, dependable, and built to stand the test of time, giving you superior performance and an ROI you can count on for years to come. Among their extensive product range you’ll find:
Rolling stairs
Portable ladders
Mobile work platforms
Adjustable stairs
Industrial and commercial use solutions, and more.
If you need easy maneuverability and performance you can count on, it’s time to roll on with RollaStep.
RollaStep Solutions and More at Northern Platforms
For nearly 20 years, Northern Platforms has served as one of Western Canada’s most trusted suppliers of loading platforms, stairs, racks, and more. As a family-owned company based out of Alberta, we strive to go the extra mile to give our customers unbeatable support, including turnkey installation services, maintenance assistance, and more. Among our inventory, you’ll find a wide range of products including stairs and platforms from RollaStep, ErectaStep, SafeRack (we are the exclusive dealer of SafeRack for Western Canada), and more. With the C, G, MP, TR models readily available as needed, you can count on us to always have your back when it matters most.
Learn more about our mobile platform solutions as well as our extensive range of other items by contacting our team today!
Need loading access solutions that allow you to move on the fly and perform high reaching tasks with ease? For those in the aerospace, agricultural and retail sectors, mobile loading platforms are a vital part of maintaining daily operations. From filling tankers and trailers to stocking inventory shelving and everything in between, having safe, reliable loading options gives your team peace of mind while ensuring you stay on track. This makes mobile platforms a valuable asset for a wide range of applications. Northern Platforms is proud to be one of Canada’s premier sources for mobile loading platforms, including products by industry leaders like SafeRack. Northern Platforms is Western Canada’s exclusive distributor of SafeRack solutions, including the world-renowned MAUI system.
Learn more about the benefits of mobile loading platforms, including MAUI below!
Mobile Vs Permanent: What to Consider
When deciding between mobile and permanent loading platforms, there are a few key factors you’ll want to keep in mind to help narrow down your selection. For example, while permanent solutions are fantastic for facilities and operations that have set deliveries and operations that are near uniform in loading requirements, mobile platforms afford greater flexibility and can be moved throughout your facility should the need arise. Additionally, due to their versatility, many purchasers enjoy the extra ROI offered by mobile units, as they can be used to accommodate a wide range of needs.
Should you choose a mobile unit such as the MAUI system (more on that below!), you’ll also want to consider what kind of surfaces you’ll be moving it across, whether or not you require a hitch or forklift pockets, and how you plan to implement transport when needed (do you need a forklift? Would you prefer a specialized product like the Maui Mover?). Knowing where and how you intend to use your mobile loading platform or rolling stairs will make it easier for Northern Platforms Ltd to help recommend the right piece of equipment for your specific operation. Our goal at Northern Platforms Ltd is to help you to make sure you make the most informed choice possible!
Choose the SafeRack MAUI Today
As one of the most trusted names in the loading platform industry, SafeRack products are known for their exceptional performance, durability, and innovative designs. SafeRack’s MAUI is built to provide safe loading solutions for a wide variety of applications, including truck loading, inventory stocking and much more. MAUI units are crated from quality materials you can trust and feature no-flat tires, alongside a rugged base that requires minimal maintenance. Combined with a sturdy rolling platform, telescoping ladder, and a frame that’s capable of handling up to 500lb and designed to fulfill OH&S / OSHA requirements, you can count on MAUI to be the perfect loading platform solution for all your needs.
Mobile Platforms and More at Northern Platforms
For over two decades, Northern Platforms has offered our customers access to leading safe access equipment, loading racks, and loading arms manufactured by the top names in the business such as SafeRack, ErectaStep, RollaStep and more. Our commitment to you is that we will always carry the best products for the job including RollaSteps MP Mobile Work Platform, as well as both the G and C series mobile platforms. In addition, Northern Platforms also offers turnkey installation services and preventative maintenance support to ensure you’re always covered, every step of the way.
Learn more about our mobile platform solutions as well as our extensive range of other items by contacting our team today!
Are you in need of safe and efficient loading solutions for railcars? As one of the most depended upon resources for heavy industries worldwide, hopper, gondola, and tank cars play a vital role in ensuring the transport of key resources like grain, steel, coal, gasoline and more. The average weight of a standard freight car is approximately 250,000 lbs, meaning that safe loading and unloading is a top concern for operators. Northern Platforms is one of Canada’s leading distributors of safe access equipment, including platforms, gangways, loading arms, and more. With top products manufactured by the names you know and trust, you can count on our team to have your back when it matters the most. Below, we’ll discuss a few main factors to keep in mind when deciding whether to you permanent or temporary railcar loading solutions. Read on to learn more!
Why the Right Fit Matters
Choosing between permanent and temporary rail loading solutions doesn’t need to be a hassle, but it should always be front of mind to ensure the safety and efficiency of your operations. Knowing what kind of solution is best suited to your environment, as well as your specific application helps to guarantee optimal performance today, tomorrow and in the many years to come. When deciding between a permanent or temporary railcar loading system, considering the following:
Are You Loading or Unloading?
Loading and unloading both have unique needs, which certain pieces of equipment will be better equipped to handle compared to others. Additionally, you’ll want to know where you are unloading from (i.e. top or bottom), as this will help to further narrow down your selection. From telescoping gangways to loading arms and dry disconnect fittings, Northern Platforms is pleased to offer a wide range of options to suit all your loading and unloading needs!
What Kind of Data Do you Have on Your Railcar Fleet?
While permanent solutions may be best suited to transport locations that deal with very specific (and consistent cargo) and therefore deal with a fairly uniform range of railcars coming and going, temporary options may afford more flexibility where needed. Keep in mind key data points such as the size of railcars you’ll be working with including the min and max length/height, crash box ranges, and all other related information when making your selection to ensure the best fit.
Are You Planning on Using Loading Arms or Hoses to Load/Unload?
Depending on what kind of cargo your railcars will be hauling, either a loading arm or hose system will be best equipped to handle the loading and unloading the railcar. Again, as with above, if your facility will be consistently handling a specific type of cargo, make sure your selection is well equipped to handle your application, permanent or not.
Are You Going to Need Spill Containment Underneath the Railcars?
Safety should come first at any job site, so in addition to spill containment provisions, you should also consider if you’ll need safety showers or eye washing stations that can be integrated into whatever system you select. If this is the case, your permanent equipment can easily integrate with any of solutions Northern Platforms has available.
Ready to Get Your Show on the Road?
For over 19 years, Northern Platforms has offered customers across Canada safe and reliable solutions for your railcar loading operations. Partnering with the industry leading safe access solution provider SafeRack for gangways and loading racks to representing companies like OPW & Emco Wheaton for loading arms, at Northern Platforms Ltd you’ll find the best in class products for your facility. You’ll also find products from industry leaders like Ultratech, Scully, Aldon and more. Our team is proud to put your needs first and to work closely with our customers to find the right fit, every time. Learn more about our Railcar solutions as well as our extensive range of other items by contacting our team today!
