For most loading or unloading operations, safe access is a constant priority. However, traditional stairways or integrated ladders often fail to accommodate the evolving demands of most businesses. Looking for a secure, reliable, and adaptable way to access the tops of your equipment? The answer lies in articulating stairs. In this blog post, we’ll break down the three types of articulating stairs that Northern Platforms offers. Keep reading to learn more!
Self-Adjusting Stair Gangways (SAS)
As the #1 selling gangway in North America, SafeRacks’s self-adjusting stair gangway (SAS) is the gold standard for safe vehicle access. These innovative systems feature stair treads that articulate and self-level automatically, easily accommodating different vehicle heights.
Here are some key details about the SAS gangway:
Suitable for trucks, railcars, and isotainers.
Adjusts to different vehicle heights with an 85-degree working range.
Available widths include 24”, 36”, 48”, 60”, and 72”.
Stairs can reach up to 101.5” in length.
Made from aluminum and includes stainless steel hardware.
Are compatible with SafeRack’s safety cages for complete fall protection
Flat Ramp Telescoping Gangways (FRT)
Flat ramp telescoping gangways offer specialized solutions for operations requiring extended reach capabilities, which can be particularly useful in railcar loading applications. The FRT design features a slip-resistant surface that eliminates dangerous gaps between loading platforms and railcar surfaces. This 21-inch telescoping extension accommodates various railcar configurations while maintaining safe footing for operators.
Important features of the FRT gangway include:
Specifically designed for railcar loading operations.
Widths from 24” to 72” available.
Available materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.
37” to 89” range reach, with possible extensions to eliminate gaps.
Can hold up to 500lbs, with a handrail weight rating of 200lbs.
Top handrails can telescope in applications without a safety cage.
Simple Flat Ramp Gangways
If you are looking for an entry-level gangway, a simple flat ramp gangway is the right option for you. While this model does not offer the same articulating or telescoping features as the other options on this list, this cost-effective solution still has benefits. For example, it is more cost-effective than other articulating stairs, making it an excellent choice for small operations with limited budgets. Additionally, the straightforward flat ramp design features a slip-resistant walking surface and easy-to-use features, making it a popular choice for hopper car or truck applications where minimal height variation exists.
Here are some key features of the SFR gangway:
Suitable for both trucks and railcars, with specific advantages for hopper cars.
Features rubber bumps and machine-quality pivot points.
Widths ranging from 24’ to 72”, with a reach range of 36” to 88”
Available in aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.
Load capacity of 500lbs, with a handrail weight rating of 200lbs.
Choosing the Best Articulating Stairs for Your Site
Looking for a safe access solution that seamlessly integrates into your workflow? In order to find the best articulating stairs, you’ll need to assess the key features of each model.
Feature
SAS Gangways
FRT Gangways
Simple Flat Ramp
Best Applications
Sites with trucks of varying heights.
Railcar loading
Consistent vehicle heights and sites with basic needs.
Height Range
40° below to 45° above
15° above to 15° below
15° above to 15° below
Special Features
Self-leveling treads
Telescoping extension
Basic flat design
Complexity
High adjustment capability
Moderate extension system
Simple operation
Cost
$$$
$$
$
Generally speaking, opt for:
SAS gangways when dealing with varying heights.
FRT gangways for railcar operations.
SFR gangways for a budget-friendly option.
Still not sure which type of articulating stairs is best for your operation? Contact the Northern Platforms team for more information about your options.
Northern Platforms: Your Source for Gangways, Loading Platforms, and More
As Western Canada’s leading distributor of SafeRack safe access solutions, Northern Platforms has what it takes to make your operations safe, reliable, and efficient. With over 20 years of expertise in designing and installing comprehensive loading systems, our team will go above and beyond to understand the specific challenges and requirements of your business. Ready to experience all that Northern Platforms has to offer? Call us at (780) 986-8825 or explore our products online 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!
Ensuring proper railcar loading demands a comprehensive system that covers safety from every angle. From loading racks to railcar chocks, this guide will break down everything you need for the perfect railcar fall protection system. Not sure where to start? That’s where Northern Platforms comes in! For over 20 years, our team has engineered turnkey solutions that protect workers and streamline operations across Western Canada. Let’s discuss the essentials.
Fall Protection System Essentials
Railcar Loading Platforms
Loading platforms are essential for any operation when transporting chemicals, food products, and other materials by rail. These structures create stable work zones, allowing crews to load, unload, and easily inspect railcars. A good railcar fall protection system will:
Increase the productivity, safety, and efficiency of your site.
Adapt to any railcar type, from pressurized tankers to hopper cars.
Include comprehensive fall protection with gangways, safety cages, safety swing gates, multi-hatch access platforms, and more.
Standard railcar fall protection configurations can include:
Single spot: Pedestal
Single spot: Tower support with integrated canopy
Two spot: Connected towers
Multiple spots: Long loading platform with integrated canopy
To design the best loading rack for your site, Northern Platforms will ask the following questions:
What type of railcars do you usually deal with?
How are railcars being moved around your site?
Are you using loading arms or hoses to load and unload?
How many tracks are you dealing with?
When you partner with our expert team early on, we guarantee that we’ll do what it takes to create a railcar fall protection system that revolutionizes your operations. As a trusted SafeRack supplier, we have over 2 decades of expertise in this industry. Contact us today to get started!
Mobile Access Units
While ideal for many operations, fixed loading platforms aren’t always the right choice. Are you loading for a fall protection system that seamlessly adapts to day-to-day demands? SafeRacks’s MAUI allows operators to inspect cars in multiple locations around your railyard easily. With an adjustable ladder, fully enclosed safety cages, and signature “no flat” tires, this fall protection system is an excellent choice for any operation. Learn more here: “Increasing Workplace Efficiency with SafeRack’s MAUI Mobile Access Platforms”
Key features:
500-pound load capacity.
Completely self-supporting design.
No-flat tires.
Gangways
As a final fall protection measure, ensure your loading rack is equipped with a high-quality gangway that self-adjusts to eliminate dangerous gaps. For example, many of our railcar fall protection systems use a telescoping flat ramp with a 21” extension length. Learn more about how this product can revolutionize your railcar loading operation in our previous post.
Beyond Fall Protection: Other Essential Products for Railcar Safety
Spill Containment Pans: Protect your site from accidental spills and accidents. Based on your specifications, we’ll design a spill containment pan that keeps you protected.
Blue Flags: Railyards use these mandatory visual signals that warn operators when railcars are being loaded, unloaded, or serviced, indicating that movement is prohibited.
Railcar Chocks & Derailers: Use these simple tools to secure and derail railcars when needed. We stock a full range of wheel chocks, derail equipment, railroad warning signs, and FRA and OSHA-mandated rail safety products.
Trust Northern Platforms for Railcar Fall Protection Systems and More
Canadian-owned and operated since 2002, Northern Platforms is Western Canada’s leading expert in all things fall protection. As OPW’s top Canadian partner and a trusted SafeRack distributor, our turnkey service handles everything:
Custom design and engineering for complex railyard demands
Free site visits with certified crews to assess your needs
Every construction site faces the challenge of safe, efficient access between different levels, site trailers, and other workplace areas. While many operators have long trusted ordinary ladders and makeshift ramps, these solutions often fall short when it comes to the intense demands of a modern workplace. Looking for an access solution you can count on? Portable stairs offer a superior access that addresses these concerns, all while providing versatility for various construction applications. Let’s discuss the best portable stairs for your construction site.
The Importance of Portable Stairs
Safety is the top priority on any job site. Portable stairs dramatically reduce the risk of falls compared to ladders, especially when workers need to carry tools or materials. Unlike ladders, stairs let workers maintain three points of contact and move more naturally, which means fewer accidents and less fatigue. Plus, portable stairs increase operational efficiency, especially when workers can move quickly and confidently between levels. To top it all off, portable stairs from trusted brands like ErectaStep are automatically OSHA and OH&S compliant, making them an essential addition to your site.
Common Uses for Portable Stairs on Construction Sites
Thanks to their adaptability and durability, portable stairs can have a variety of uses for all construction sites, including:
Temporary access between floors before permanent staircases are built.
Easy access to jobsite trailers and modular office buildings.
Safe entrance and exit alternatives to scaffolding, ladders, and ramps.
3 Key Features to Look For
Durability
When selecting portable stairs, look for strong materials like powder-coated steel or aluminum that can withstand harsh construction environments. Quality stairs should feature:
Heavy-duty construction capable of supporting workers, materials, and other heavy loads.
Corrosion-resistant finishes for all-weather use that won’t degrade over time.
Aggressive non-slip tread surfaces to prevent accidents in wet or muddy conditions.
Versatility & Adjustability
Outdoor construction sites rarely feature level surfaces, which can make installing access solutions difficult. However, high-quality portable stairs easily adapt to uneven ground with adjustable legs and stable work platforms. Plus, their modular construction means they can easily be adapted to different access needs and paired with other ErectaStep products for a comprehensive safety system.
Strong handrails that meet necessary height requirements
Appropriate tread depth and riser height per regulations
Why We Recommend ErectaStep’s Portable Stairs for Your Worksite
When choosing portable stairs for your worksite this year, ErectaStep’s portable stairs are the best choice. Key features of this product include:
Adjustable leg height.
Powder-coated galvanized steel.
7 different sizes, ranging from 28” to 63” (711mm–160mm).
They also come in both OSHA and IBC compliant models:
OSHA (Industrial): Features a 4×4 platform with 50 psf load requirements and handrails with standard balusters.
IBC (Commercial and Residential): Includes a 4×6 platform with heavy-duty load requirements of 100 psf and balusters with 102mm spacing.
Northern Platforms: Your Trusted ErectaStep Supplier
Ready to invest in the best portable stairs for your worksite? As Alberta’s trusted safe access supplier since 2002, Northern Platforms has the solutions you need to make your site safer and more efficient. Need to pair your stairs with a modular catwalk system or a comprehensive rooftop safety system? Our turnkey services will take care of everything from consultation to installation. Get started by contacting us for a quote today!
Looking for the best tanker truck fall protection systems in Western Canada? At Northern Platforms, we have over 20 years of experience engineering systems that combine innovation, durability, and functionality. Keep reading to learn why industry leaders trust us to protect workers and streamline operations.
Why Choose Northern Platforms for Tanker Truck Fall Protection?
1. Over 20 Years of Expertise
With two decades of industry experience, our team has seen it all. Through our time designing, engineering, and installing fall protection systems, we’ve devised creative solutions for unique problems at every turn. While no two tanker trucks or worksites are identical, we will do our best to create systems tailored to your needs. Interested in how our customized approach could transform your operations? Call our sales team today.
2. Turnkey Service
Looking for a trusted partner who takes care of it all? When you partner with Northern Platforms, you don’t have to worry about coordinating multiple vendors to design, supply, and install your system. Instead, our team will visit your site, complete an assessment, and recommend a system that fits your exact needs. Next, our in-house installation crew will handle everything. Plus, our team is just a phone call away if you ever need support or equipment maintenance.
3. Industry-Leading Partnerships
As a platinum distributor for OPW Engineered Systems and a trusted SafeRack partner, we know what products you need, where to find them, and how to secure the best rate. Plus, we are always tuned in to new products and emerging technology, meaning our systems always feature state-of-the-art functionality.
4. Best-Selling SKUs In Stock Now
Once a safety concern has been identified, your team has to act fast. That’s why we keep many of our most essential safety products in stock now and ready to ship to your site. From swing gates to modular work platforms, we can have a safety solution on your site within the week. Contact us today for any urgent requests, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
Best Tanker Truck Loading and Fall Protection Products
Permanent Loading Racks
Our fixed tanker truck loading platforms are a safe, efficient, and compliant solution for any bulk loading or unloading operation for high-traffic sites. While we can design a custom system for your unique needs, common configurations for these systems include pedestal or multi-hatch platforms with both single and double-sided operations. Interested in how we can integrate a loading platform into your existing operation? Contact our sales team today.
Mobile Fall Protection Systems
Does your site require ultimate adaptability? Our portable fall protection systems are ideal for situations where you are inspecting or venting multiple tanker trucks around your site. For example, SafeRack’s MAUI mobile loading platform is built to provide safe and dependable portable access to trucks of varying heights. Plus, with an integrated safety cage, you can rest assured that your workers are protected at every turn.
Loading Arms
Our specialization doesn’t stop with fall protection. We provide a complete range of truck loading arms that can be engineered specifically for your operation. Choose from bottom-loading arms that reduce emissions and spills, specialty arms with vapour recovery for hazardous products, or fully custom configurations to meet your flow rate and maneuverability needs. Learn more about our loading arm systems here:
Upgrade to the Best Today
Ready to revolutionize your operations? The Northern Platforms team offers the best tanker truck fall protection systems in Canada, engineered for safety, efficiency, and seamless integration. Call us today at (780) 986-8825 to schedule your free site assessment!
