Portable stairs are one of those pieces of equipment that look simple from the outside but come in more configurations than most buyers expect. The right choice depends on what you’re accessing, how often you’re accessing it, whether the stairs need to move around the site, and what height variability you’re dealing with. This guide covers the four main types of portable stairs Northern Platforms carries, what each one is built for, and how to decide which is right for your application.
Type 1: Fixed Portable Stairs
Fixed portable stairs are prefabricated stair units designed for a set height range — typically used to provide access to a specific entry point, elevated surface, or piece of equipment that doesn’t change. Despite the name, they’re portable in the sense that they can be relocated when needed, but they’re generally positioned and left in place for extended use.
What they’re built for: Trailer and modular building access, elevated platform entry, roof access hatches, construction site office stairs, and any application where a permanent concrete or wood stair isn’t warranted but a stable, compliant access point is needed in one location.
Key specs to look for:
Height range matching your specific application (ErectaStep fixed portable stairs are available in 7 sizes from 28″ to 63″)
IBC, OSHA, and OH&S-compliant construction
Field-adjustable legs for uneven surfaces — essential for outdoor and construction site applications
Slip-resistant tread surface
Platform size adequate for the entry point (4×6′ and 4×4′ platforms available)
Entry configurations: direct, left, right, or multiple entry; double stair options for high-traffic access points
When it’s the right choice: You need a compliant, stable stair at a fixed location and don’t want to build or pour concrete. For temporary site trailers, construction phase access, or any elevated entry that needs to meet code without a permanent structure.
Type 2: Tilt-and-Roll Portable Stairs
Tilt-and-roll stairs are mobile stair units that can be tilted back on integrated rear wheels to move from one location to another, then set down flat for stable use. A single operator can reposition them without equipment or assistance.
What they’re built for: Warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centres where workers need to access shelving, mezzanines, or equipment at different points throughout a shift. Anywhere that a stair needs to serve multiple locations on the same floor.
Key specs to look for:
Wheel size and material — larger wheels handle uneven or outdoor surfaces better
Load rating on both the platform and the steps
Handrail configuration — full-height handrails on both sides for industrial applications
Locking mechanism when stationary — caster locks should engage quickly and hold firmly
Step width adequate for carrying tools or equipment while ascending
When it’s the right choice: Your workers need stair access at multiple points in a facility, and repositioning needs to be fast and single-operator. A fixed stair at every location isn’t practical; a tilt-and-roll unit serves the whole area.
Type 3: Rolling Self-Levelling Stairs
Rolling self-levelling stairs take mobility a step further. These units are designed to be repositioned frequently and adjust their platform height to match varying access heights — so the same unit can serve different pieces of equipment or vehicles without reconfiguration. The RollaStep G Series is the leading example of this type: a variable-height, self-levelling stair and platform with gas spring height adjustment and a locking pin to secure the set height.
What they’re built for: Process facilities, tank farms, refineries, and maintenance operations where workers access equipment at multiple heights throughout the day. Loading areas where vehicle or equipment heights vary. Any application where a single stair unit needs to replace multiple fixed-height platforms.
Key specs to look for:
Height adjustment range — the RollaStep G Series adjusts to accommodate a wide range of access heights
Self-levelling step and platform mechanism — steps should automatically level at every height setting, not require manual adjustment
Platform load rating — the G Series carries a 300 lb platform load limit
Caster quality — 360° locking casters with no-flat construction for outdoor and uneven surfaces
Platform size — the G Series provides a 6 square foot work surface, accommodating an operator with tools
Non-slip tread — self-draining, aggressive tread for wet and cold weather conditions
When it’s the right choice: You’re dealing with variable access heights across your site and want one unit that handles all of them. Particularly valuable in oil and gas, chemical processing, and maintenance environments where equipment heights vary, and workers move through multiple tasks in a shift.
Type 4: Cantilever Rolling Stairs
Cantilever rolling stairs are the most specialized type of portable stair — designed for applications where the access point is above or beyond an obstacle that prevents a standard stair from getting close enough. The platform extends out beyond the base of the unit, allowing workers to get above piping, containment walls, tank berms, or vehicle rooflines without the stair base contacting the obstacle or the equipment being serviced.
The RollaStep C Series is the industry standard for this type: a counterweighted cantilever platform that extends 2’5″ beyond the base, with 360° locking swivel casters that allow precise placement around sensitive equipment.
What they’re built for: Tank truck and railcar loading and unloading access, tank hatch access in process facilities, equipment access where piping or containment prevents direct approach, and chemical or petroleum handling environments where contact with the equipment must be avoided.
Key specs to look for:
Cantilever extension length — must reach far enough to position the operator above the access point
Counterweight design — a properly counterweighted unit should be stable with an operator on the platform without tipping
Caster locking — must lock securely before any operator climbs; look for total-lock casters that lock both rotation and swivel
Platform and handrail configuration — full handrails, adequate platform depth for working with equipment or hoses
OSHA compliance — non-negotiable for any industrial application
When it’s the right choice: You’re loading or unloading tank trucks or railcars, accessing tank hatches, or working above or around any obstacle that prevents a standard stair from approaching directly. This is the unit that replaces the improvised ladder-over-the-berm solution that no one should be using.
Portable Stairs from Northern Platforms
Northern Platforms carries the full RollaStep and ErectaStep portable stair lineup. We carry all four types above, and they are in stock and ready to ship. As an authorized distributor with nearly 30 years of experience supplying access equipment to oil and gas, construction, and industrial operations across Western Canada, our team can help you match the right unit to your specific application before you buy. Contact us today to get started!
Choosing the right elevated access system comes down to one key question: is your access need temporary, mobile, or permanent? Industrial facilities rely on safe, compliant access solutions, but not every worksite requires fixed infrastructure. In some cases, portable or rolling stairs provide the flexibility crews need. In others, a permanent access platform delivers greater stability and long-term value.
Wondering whether permanent or portable stairs are right for you? In this blog post we’ll discuss key features and break down the differences between these solutions. Keep reading!
What are Industrial Portable Stairs?
Industrial portable stairs are mobile access systems designed to provide safe, temporary elevation access in warehouses, construction sites, maintenance facilities, and loading areas. Depending on the configuration, they could include:
Non-slip treads
Handrails or full guardrail systems
A top platform for secure transitions
Locking casters or wheels
Heavy-duty aluminum or steel construction
Typically, portable stairs fall for industrial operations fall into two key categories.
Stairs for Temporary Buildings
Temporary modular stairs are designed to provide stable, structured access without requiring full structural installation. These systems are commonly used for:
Jobsite trailers
Temporary buildings
Elevated equipment access
Project-based application
They are typically assembled on-site and can be relocated or reconfigured as operational needs change. While not permanently anchored to the facility structure, they provide a secure, durable solution for mid- to long-term temporary access requirements.
Mobile or Rolling Stairs
Mobile rolling stairs, or portable stairs on wheels, are designed for frequent repositioning within a facility. Equipped with locking casters, these systems allow crews to move the stairs between work areas quickly and safely.
They are commonly used in:
Warehouses
Maintenance departments
Manufacturing facilities
Distribution centers
Rolling stairs prioritize flexibility and ease of movement, making them ideal when elevation points change regularly.
Interested in learning more about the rolling stair options that are currently available at the Northern Platforms? Read our complete guide or call our office for more information.
What are Permanent Access Platforms?
On the other hand, permanent access platforms are fixed structures installed at designated access points. While they can be modular and adaptable, the primary function of these systems is to provide consistent and reliable access to specific areas on your site. Certain options, like the modular work platforms from ErectaStep, can be custom-configured for the specific needs of your site.
How They Compare
Now that you have a clear understanding of your options, you might be wondering how these solutions compare. Use this table to understand the key differences between portable stairs and more permanent options:
Feature
Portable Stairs
Rolling Stairs
Permanent Platforms
Primary Function
Provide stable access for temporary or semi-permanent structures.
Provide flexible access that can be moved between locations
Deliver fixed, long-term access to designated elevated areas
Best For
Mid- to long-term projects requiring consistent access.
Completely customizable and modular. Available in multiple configurations.
Key Takeaway: Which Option is Right for You?
Still not sure which safe access solution is best for your site? Finding the right system is easy when you consider how it will be used within your operation.
If your access point needs to move between work areas throughout the day → Rolling portable stairs are likely the most practical choice.
If you require structured access for a jobsite trailer, temporary building, or project-based application → Temporary portable stairs provide stable, semi-permanent access without full structural installation.
If workers access the same elevated location multiple times per shift → A permanent access platform will typically offer greater stability and compliance consistency.
Make the Right Choice with Northern Platforms
No matter which option you choose, the Northern Platforms team is here to help. We work with facilities across Alberta and British Columbia to design, install, and maintain safety systems that meet real-world standards. When you partner with us, we’ll go above and beyond to understand your site, your needs, and any roadblocks.
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.
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!
Efficient and safe access to buildings and areas on your worksite is crucial for all operations. But, in some circumstances, it might not make sense to invest in a permanent solution. That’s where portable stairs come in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of portable stairs, their key features, and why it pays to invest in high-quality models like ErectaStep from qualified suppliers like Northern Platforms. Keep reading to learn more!
What are Portable Stairs?
Portable stairs are adjustable work platforms designed to provide access to temporary buildings, trailers, and other areas on construction, industrial, and commercial sites. These safe access solutions are usually installed when permanent stairs aren’t necessary or practical, like temporary worksites or remote jobs. Some employers might also opt for portable steel stairs as a permanent solution since they are a cost-effective and durable alternative to concrete or wood stairs.
Multiple configurations are available, including direct, left, right, or multiple entries. Double stairs are also available.
How High-Quality Portable Stairs Can Save You Money
Avoid Costly Construction
Enabling safe access for your workers is crucial; stairways are just one way. However, external stairs can cost a lot to fabricate and install, especially when using concrete. On the other hand, if you opt for a cheaper material like wood, you’ll experience increased liability due to rot, decay, and improper construction. That’s why metal stairs are ideal: they are less expensive than concrete but more durable than wood.
With pre-fabricated metal stairs, you can significantly reduce material and labour costs. All elements easily bolt together on-site without welding or heavy equipment, making the installation fast and painless. Plus, they are made from durable galvanized steel with large, slip-resistant platforms, meaning your workers will be protected, every step of the way.
No Permits, No Fines
In some cases, you might need a permit if you are building a permanent exterior staircase yourself. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure your stairs comply with your area’s local rules and building regulations. If you aren’t careful, incorrect stair construction can lead to costly fines, taking a significant financial toll in the long run.
Avoid uncertainty (and hefty penalties!) with ErectaStep prefabricated portable stairs, which are OSHA, IBC, and CCOHS compliant. This product is built with tread, riser, and width regulations in mind, meaning you can count on passing your safety inspection with flying colours.
Northern Platforms: Your Go-To for Quality Portable Stairs and More
