Alberta’s energy sector depends on reliable rail operations. From oil sands loading in Fort McMurray to crude terminals near Edmonton and Calgary, hundreds of workers access tank cars daily at significant heights. Slip hazards, extreme weather, and high-exposure openings create serious risks—making professional fall protection systems essential under Alberta OHS Code Part 9. Keep reading to learn more about railcar fall protection in Alberta—and how Northern Platforms can help.
Railcar Fall Protection Regulations in Alberta
Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code
In Alberta, fall protection requirements for worksites are determined by the Occupational Health and Safety Code, specifically Part 9. This code requires fall protection in all circumstances where workers could fall 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) or higher from an unprotected edge, platform, or opening. At railcar loading facilities, this threshold is commonly met when accessing the top of tank cars, platforms adjacent to rail spurs, or elevated gangway systems. Additionally, Alberta OHS recognizes “greater risk” situations—meaning that even falls under 3 meters may require protection if the landing surface is uneven, contains hazardous equipment, or presents other aggravating factors.
The Railway Safety Act
For facilities located on or working with federally regulated railway corridors (such as those operated by CN), additional obligations may apply. The Railway Safety Act addresses broader rail operational safety, including track maintenance, railway equipment, signal systems, grade crossings, dangerous goods handling, and the operating rules that control how workers and equipment interact with rail infrastructure. Northern Platforms designs systems that satisfy both provincial and national regulations, ensuring your facility meets all applicable requirements.
Complete Fall Protection Systems for Alberta Rail Operations
For comprehensive protection when accessing tank cars, your system will need several elements, including:
Gangways: Stable walking surfaces that connect docks and tank cars. Many Alberta operations deal with varying tank car heights, so adjustability is key. Northern Platforms product recommendation: SafeRack FRT gangway
Tank car safety gates: A simple added fall protection feature that prevents workers from falling through the crashbox opening on a tank car. Enjoy a lightweight aluminum construction, power-coated finish, and easy installation with linch pins. Northern Platforms product recommendation: Northern Platforms Rail Car Safety Gate
Additional safety systems: Beyond fall protection, railcar loading and unloading operations are required to use railcar wheel chocks and blue flags under Alberta regulations. Northern Platforms product recommendation: Aldon Railcar Wheel Chocks
Northern Platforms provides railcar fall protection to operations across Alberta, including:
Edmonton
Calgary
Red Deer
Fort McMurray
Grande Prairie
Lloydminster
Cold Lake
Bonnyville
Lethbridge
Medicine Hat
Our expertise spans oil and gas operations, petrochemical manufacturing, agricultural loading, and industrial chemicals. We understand Alberta’s regulatory environment, climate challenges, and operational demands. Ready to learn why we’re Western Canada’s number one choice for railcar fall protection systems? Get in touch with our office today.
Start Building Your Railcar Fall Protection System Today
Your Alberta railcar operations depend on fall protection designed for local conditions and regulations. So whether you are operating a Calgary transloading facility, Edmonton terminal, or Fort McMurray oil sands operation, Northern Platforms brings regional expertise and proven experience to every single contract. Plus, as a complete turnkey service provider, we can provide everything from comprehensive system design to ongoing and consistent maintenance.
Ready to ensure your Alberta rail operations meet local compliance and safety standards? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation site assessment. Our Alberta specialists will evaluate your facility, recommend optimal solutions, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. We bring decades of experience securing workers at heights across Western Canadian energy infrastructure.
Northern Platforms is the Western Canadian leader in industrial access solutions, specializing in fall protection systems and turnkey installation services for oil and gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. We supply some of the best products on the market, including SafeRack, ErectaStep, OPW, and more.
Runaway railcars, falls from height, product spills…these are just some of the risks of unsafe railcar 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 some practical solutions to common railcar loading mistakes. With a couple of simple products from Northern Platforms, your Western Canadian operation will be safer and more efficient in no time.
Runaway Railcars
Here’s the truth: it only takes a small gust of wind to set your railcar rolling, causing accidents, equipment damage, and—in the worst-case scenario—worker injury. That’s why it is so important to properly secure your railcars during loading and unloading operations.
The Solution: Railcar Wheel Chocks
Transport Canada’s rules are clear: railcar wheel chocks are required for all parked railcars, especially during loading, unloading, or maintenance. These simple systems prevent unexpected movement and keep railcars stationary when it matters.
Falls from railcars represent one of the most serious hazards in loading operations—but many operations fail to have proper protections in place. Are your workers regularly accessing the tops of railcars? Without the right equipment, simple tasks turn into life-threatening situations.
The Solution: Railcar Fall Protection
Fall protection systems aren’t just a suggestion—they are a requirement. Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Code and BC’s WorkSafeBC regulations require fall protection for employees performing tasks at heights of three metres or more. At Northern Platforms, we specialize in providing railcar fall protection systems for Alberta and BC operations, including:
Permanent or mobile railcar loading platforms
Tracking and telescoping gangways
Tank car safety cages
And more!
Contact us for a complete site assessment and to start building your fall protection plan.
Uncontrolled Product Leaks
When you are dealing with hazardous materials, even the smallest spill can have serious consequences. Drips during connection or disconnection, accidental overfills, or other issues can impact your surrounding environment and violate local and national regulations.
The Solution: Spill Containment
While spills are never completely preventable, there are some systems that can help minimize the risk. For example, overfill prevention systems for loading arms are designed to detect spills immediately and shut off flow. Dry disconnects are another option that automatically close as soon as the coupling is unhooked.
Plus, you should also invest in railroad spill containment systems, such as track pans. These modular systems fit between and alongside tracks, capturing leaks and spills before they can seep into the ground or reach water sources.
Choose Northern Platforms for Railcar Wheel Chocks, Fall Protection, and More!
At Northern Platforms, we understand the unique challenges of railcar loading operations. Since 2002, we’ve been Western Canada’s trusted leader in supplying high-quality railcar loading racks, loading arms, safe access equipment, and fall protection systems that comply with all applicable regulations. Our team provides turnkey solutions custom-engineered to your specific needs, including:
Loading platforms with tracking gangways to accommodate railcar mis-spotting
Alberta OHS Code and WorkSafeBC-compliant fall protection systems and tank car safety cages
Top and bottom loading arms for safe material transfer
Railcar wheel chocks designed to comply with local regulations
Our experienced team will visit your site, assess your needs, and provide customized recommendations that integrate seamlessly into your existing operation.
Contact Us Today
Ready to start building a complete railcar safety system? Call Northern Platforms or request a quote through our website now!
British Columbia rail and industrial operations require robust fall protection and loading systems that comply with local regulations, help protect workers, and stand the test of time. Northern Platforms designs, supplies, and installs rail access systems, industrial platforms, and guardrails that do all this—and more. Keep reading to learn more about effective railcar loading systems in BC and how our company can help.
Railcar Loading Requirements in British Columbia
WorkSafe BC
In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC requires fall protection when workers can fall 3 m (10 ft) or where a lesser height presents greater risk than a flat‑surface impact, which commonly applies around rail loading racks, platforms, and mezzanine edges. Most sites use permanent guardrails to address these risks; however, these solutions aren’t practical for some sites. In these cases, BC requires a written plan before work begins and clear instructions to workers.
The Railway Safety Act
For facilities located on or working with federally regulated railway corridors (such as those operated by CN), additional obligations may apply. The Railway Safety Act addresses broader rail operational safety, including track maintenance, railway equipment, signal systems, grade crossings, dangerous goods handling, and the operating rules that control how workers and equipment interact with rail infrastructure. Northern Platforms designs systems that satisfy both provincial and national regulations, ensuring your facility meets all applicable requirements.
Complete Railcar Loading Systems for BC Operations
There are several elements of an ideal railcar loading system for British Columbia sites, including:
Railcar access systems: gangways, tank car safety cages, and guardrails designed to satisfy WorkSafeBC fall protection requirements.
Industrial access platforms and guardrails: fixed/modular platforms, mezzanine gates, and compliant guardrail systems meeting BC height and load criteria and acceptable standards.
Additional safety systems: Beyond fall protection, we stock a variety of products that promote safe railcar loading, including wheel chocks, blue flags, and more.
Additional Products for BC Operations
British Columbia’s diverse industries—from marine terminals to forestry operations—require specialized access and fall protection solutions beyond railcar loading systems. Northern Platforms supplies a complete range of products designed for BC’s unique operational environments:
Loading Arms: Upgrade your loading and unloading operations with OPW loading arms that are tailored to the needs of your industry. As a turnkey system provider, Northern Platforms will ensure your loading arms integrate seamlessly with your platforms and gangways.
Modular Platform Systems: Bolt-together ErectaStep platforms requiring no welding—ideal for pulp and paper mills, food processing facilities, and operations with hot-work permit restrictions.
For more information about building a complete WorkSafeBC-compliant system for your BC operation, contact Northern Platforms today.
Serving British Columbia Industries
Northern Platforms provides fall protection systems and loading equipment to operations across BC, including:
Vancouver
Prince Rupert
Mission
Courtenay
Get Started with Northern Platforms Today!
Your British Columbia railcar loading systems depend on design and installation that meet local conditions and WorkSafeBC regulations. Whether you are operating a Vancouver port facility, a Prince George transloading terminal, or an interior BC rail yard, Northern Platforms brings regional expertise and proven experience to every single contract. Plus, as a complete turnkey service provider, we can provide everything from comprehensive railcar loading system design to ongoing and consistent maintenance.
Ready to ensure your BC railcar loading systems meet local compliance and safety standards? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation site assessment. Our specialists will evaluate your facility, recommend optimal solutions, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. Get in touch today to get started!
Northern Platforms is the Western Canadian leader in industrial access solutions, specializing in fall protection systems and turnkey installation services for oil and gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. We supply some of the best products on the market, including SafeRack, ErectaStep, OPW, and more.
Alberta’s energy sector depends on reliable rail operations. From oil sands loading in Fort McMurray to crude terminals near Edmonton and Calgary, hundreds of workers access tank cars daily at significant heights. Slip hazards, extreme weather, and high-exposure openings create serious risks—making professional fall protection systems essential under Alberta OHS Code Part 9. Keep reading to learn more about railcar fall protection in Alberta—and how Northern Platforms can help.
Railcar Fall Protection Regulations in Alberta
Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Code
In Alberta, fall protection requirements for worksites are determined by the Occupational Health and Safety Code, specifically Part 9. This code requires fall protection in all circumstances where workers could fall 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) or higher from an unprotected edge, platform, or opening. At railcar loading facilities, this threshold is commonly met when accessing the top of tank cars, platforms adjacent to rail spurs, or elevated gangway systems. Additionally, Alberta OHS recognizes “greater risk” situations—meaning that even falls under 3 meters may require protection if the landing surface is uneven, contains hazardous equipment, or presents other aggravating factors.
The Railway Safety Act
For facilities located on or working with federally regulated railway corridors (such as those operated by CN), additional obligations may apply. The Railway Safety Act addresses broader rail operational safety, including track maintenance, railway equipment, signal systems, grade crossings, dangerous goods handling, and the operating rules that control how workers and equipment interact with rail infrastructure. Northern Platforms designs systems that satisfy both provincial and national regulations, ensuring your facility meets all applicable requirements.
Complete Fall Protection Systems for Alberta Rail Operations
For comprehensive protection when accessing tank cars, your system will need several elements, including:
Gangways: Stable walking surfaces that connect docks and tank cars. Many Alberta operations deal with varying tank car heights, so adjustability is key. Northern Platforms product recommendation: SafeRack FRT gangway
Tank car safety gates: A simple added fall protection feature that prevents workers from falling through the crashbox opening on a tank car. Enjoy a lightweight aluminum construction, power-coated finish, and easy installation with linch pins. Northern Platforms product recommendation: Northern Platforms Rail Car Safety Gate
Additional safety systems: Beyond fall protection, railcar loading and unloading operations are required to use railcar wheel chocks and blue flags under Alberta regulations. Northern Platforms product recommendation: Aldon Railcar Wheel Chocks
Northern Platforms provides railcar fall protection to operations across Alberta, including:
Edmonton
Calgary
Red Deer
Fort McMurray
Our expertise spans oil and gas operations, petrochemical manufacturing, agricultural loading, and industrial chemicals. We understand Alberta’s regulatory environment, climate challenges, and operational demands. Ready to learn why we’re Western Canada’s number one choice for railcar fall protection systems? Get in touch with our office today.
Start Building Your Railcar Fall Protection System Today
Your Alberta railcar operations depend on fall protection designed for local conditions and regulations. So whether you are operating a Calgary transloading facility, Edmonton terminal, or Fort McMurray oil sands operation, Northern Platforms brings regional expertise and proven experience to every single contract. Plus, as a complete turnkey service provider, we can provide everything from comprehensive system design to ongoing and consistent maintenance.
Ready to ensure your Alberta rail operations meet local compliance and safety standards? Contact Northern Platforms for a no-obligation site assessment. Our Alberta specialists will evaluate your facility, recommend optimal solutions, and provide transparent proposals for supply and installation. We bring decades of experience securing workers at heights across Western Canadian energy infrastructure.
Northern Platforms is the Western Canadian leader in industrial access solutions, specializing in fall protection systems and turnkey installation services for oil and gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. We supply some of the best products on the market, including SafeRack, ErectaStep, OPW, and more.
While flatbeds might not look as dangerous as tanker trucks or railcars, the truth is that working on these trailers regularly puts operators at risk of fatal falls. Plus, this risk is substantially increased without proper fall protection systems that adapt to the needs of the modern workplace. Enter: mobile fall protection for flatbed trailers. These simple and reliable systems turn life-threatening hazards into manageable solutions. Ready to learn how this product can transform your operations? Keep reading!
What are Mobile Fall Protection Platforms?
Combining safety, versatility, and adaptability, mobile fall protection platforms are an ideal addition to any operation that regularly deals with flatbed trailers. This equipment is designed to provide a secure working surface and fall protection for workers. It typically features large work surfaces, safety handrails, and wheels, allowing them to be positioned alongside trailers where needed.
Benefits of Mobile Platforms for Flatbed Fall Protection
Mobility: The most obvious advantage of this system is that mobile platforms move with your workers, unlike fixed systems. These systems are often equipped with 360-degree casters, making it easy for a single worker to move and position this system.
Versatility: From traditional flatbed trailers to step decks and lowboys, mobile platforms can be customized for any application. Mobile platforms are more than fall protection systems—they’re adaptable solutions with multiple uses. Once loading or unloading is complete, they can be used as standalone work platforms, access solutions, and more. Plus, mobile platforms can often be customized with modular handrails, enclosure panels, and more.
Passive Protection: While active fall protection systems like fall arrests require worker compliance, mobile platforms provide consistent support without any additional effort. With proper guardrails, operators are protected 24/7.
Introducing: RollAStep’s MP Series
Looking for your go-to flatbed fall safety solution? Look no further–RollaStep’s MP Series is one of the best products on the market. Combining the stability of a fixed work platform with the versatility of a movable platform, this fall protection system features:
9’ x 3’ work platforms to accommodate numerous operators.
360-degree swivelling and locking casters.
Removable handrails for ultimate versatility.
No-flat tires.
Aggressive no-slip surface.
Extra wide no-slip tread.
Technical Specifications
RollAStep’s MP series comes in several different sizes to accommodate the different circumstances of your site. Here are the technical specifications of each model:
Top Notch Products: We’re Western Canada’s leading supplier of RollaStep, ErectaStep, and SafeRack products. These brands are backed by decades of expertise and offer some of the bestselling fall protection products in all of North America.
One Stop Shop: Our Leduc warehouse is fully stocked and ready to serve you. On top of mobile platforms, we offer comprehensive solutions for truck and railcar loading, modular work platforms for warehouses, and more! No matter your needs, let Northern Platforms take care of it all.
On-Site Assessments: Whenever possible, the Northern Platforms team will schedule a comprehensive on-site assessment to identify your needs and recommend the ideal solution. If you are located in Alberta, give our team a call and we’ll have someone on site within a few business days.
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!
