Looking for reliable industrial swing gates that work across every application? YellowGate has revolutionized workplace safety with a universal industrial swing gate that is suitable for virtually every application. These adjustable swing gates eliminate the traditional complexity of safety equipment while delivering superior protection across multiple industrial sectors. Keep reading to learn more about common uses for this product—and how to order YellowGate safety swing gates from Northern Platforms today!
Top Applications for Industrial Swing Gates
Oil and Gas Plants
Oil and gas facilities can be dangerous work sites, especially when operators regularly deal with elevated work platforms, ladders, and other falling hazards. In fact, one of the most significant risks for all workers is unsecured access points on ladders and hatches.
While these risks are significant, ensuring complete safety is easy. Oil and gas facilities count on YellowGate’s industrial swing gates to provide 24/7 protection for all open access points on ladders, stairs, and other areas on their site. For example, the Northern Platforms team installed over 50 safety swing gates at an oil and natural gas facility in central Alberta. This allowed workers to safely navigate the processing plant and ensure they were protected from falling hazardous at every step.
Food Processing Facilities
Food and beverage processing facilities combine elevated work environments with strict hygiene requirements. Workers regularly access significant heights on tanks, conveyor systems, and assembly lines. In these circumstances, food processing facilities can benefit from installing safety swing gates in several locations, including:
Mixing tanks and other processing locations.
Elevated conveyor systems.
Ladders and stairways leading to packaging and bottling assembly lines.
Rooftop Access
No matter what industry you operate in, you or your workers will likely have to access the rooftop at some point. From performing HVAC checks to maintaining important equipment, these regular tasks can be dangerous without proper protection in place. Pair your safety swing gates with portable railing systems for comprehensive rooftop fall protection.
Warehouse Loading Docks
In addition to standard adjustable swing gates, YellowGate offers the XL barrier gate, which offers 6 feet of adjustable traffic control. Suitable for both interior and exterior applications, this products easily protects passageways in your facilities, helping you control dangerous areas or block unauthorized access.
The Universal Solution: YellowGate Industrial Safety Gates
When dealing with conventional safety swing gates, your supplier will need to know several details, including:
The size of each opening where the gate will be installed.
How the gate will be mounted (square tubing vs. pipes).
The direction that the gate will swing.
However, with YellowGate’s innovative industrial safety gates, you don’t have to worry about all these details. Featuring a unique universal mounting system and 16-inch adjustability, these fall protection solutions fit almost every type of opening, regardless of your facility. For complete protection, simply count the number of openings on your site and place your order with Northern Platforms—no need for measuring, mounting considerations, or other time-consuming assessments.
Protect Your Facility Today
Ready to simplify your facility’s fall protection with universal adjustable swing gates? With just one SKU, you can guarantee your workers are protected at every turn. Contact Northern Platforms today for turnkey installation, maintenance programs, and more!
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!
For workers in the liquid chemicals industry, one of the most crucial parts of their job is having access to safety equipment that makes completing day-to-day tasks easier. While this might sound straightforward, it is more challenging than you think. Completing even the most basic jobs safely and comfortably can be complicated with dangerous built-in systems and consistent equipment design flaws.
That’s why investing in the best safety equipment is so important. It can help improve the efficiency of your operations and ensure that your workers are protected. Products like portable truck access stairs, loading racks, and fall protection systems all work together to ensure your workers’ protection at every turn.
In this post, we’ll explain why you should add a mobile access unit to your operations and how the Northern Platforms team can help you find the right solution.
What are Portable Truck Access Stairs?
Portable truck access stairs, also known as mobile access units or tanker ladders, are used to safely climb on top of tanker trucks and railcars to complete inspections, venting, loading, and unloading. These units are safer alternatives to the preexisting ladders on tanker trucks, which usually have thin rungs and inadequate fall protection. These ladders can be extremely unsafe, especially in Alberta and BC’s cold and wet climates.
Portable vs Permanent Truck Fall Protection: What’s Right for You?
Portable stairs with a platform are ideal for temporary or remote job sites, where investing in a permanent solution doesn’t make sense. Similarly, if your workplace requires a lot of flexibility, portable racks are great for their versatility and mobility. However, here’s what you should remember: investing in permanentfall protection systems like truck loading racks and platforms is smarter in some situations. For example, if your facility has a fixed loading lane or unloading bay where tanker trucks regularly drive in and out, a permanent solution makes the most sense for you.
At Northern Platforms, we stock a variety of permanent and portable fall protection systems. Not sure which solution is right for you? Our experts are ready to help you find the perfect safe access system for your unique needs. Read more about Tanker Truck Fall Protection Options at Northern Platforms. Ask yourself:
Do you load/unload/work on trucks/railcars in many different locations on your site?
Do you deal primarily with vehicles of varying heights, sizes, and types?
Is your worksite temporary or remote?
Are there obstacles or environmental conditions that prevent a permanent installation?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, keep reading! Next, we’ll discuss SafeRack’s MAUI, the best portable truck access stairs in the business.
Choosing the Best Portable Access Unit: SafeRack’s MAUI
Now that you’ve determined that a mobile tanker ladder is right for you, it’s time to find the perfect unit. That’s where SafeRack’s MAUI comes in. Unlike most mobile tanker truck fall protection systems that require support from the vehicle, the SafeRack MAUI is a self-supporting unit. This means it does not need to rest on the trailer, ensuring stability and preventing the risk of tipping over, even on uneven surfaces. Plus, it comes equipped with a safety cage and no-flat tires. All these features make the MAUI reliable and preferred by all our customers in the liquid chemical business.
SafeRack’s MAUI 10/14 vs MAUI 12/16
The MAUI comes in two different heights.
MAUI 10/14 Mobile Loading Platform
MAUI 12/16 Mobile Loading Platform
Ladder Height
10’ to 14’
12’ to 16’
Vehicle Access Height
9’6” to 14’0” (ATV Model: 11′- 6 ¾” to 15′ – 6 ¾”)
12’0 to 16’0” (ATV Model: 13′-6 ¾” to 17′-6 ¾”)
Load Capacity
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
2,300 lbs (1,043 kg)
Both models are available with perpendicular or parallel configurations. Choose perpendicular for easy spotting with tankers. Parallel is best suited for increased maneuverability in tight spaces. Additionally, the MAUI is available in an ATV model, which is ideal for rugged terrain. Remember that the ATV has slightly different vehicle access heights than the traditional MAUI. If you have questions, contact a Northern Platforms team member for more information.
Choose Northern Platforms for Portable Tanker Ladders and More
Without the right equipment, flatbed loading can be dangerous for truck operators and nearby personnel. At Northern Platforms, we can help you reduce the risk of injury or accident during these difficult applications. With our inventory of RollaStep rolling stairs and work platforms, we will surely find the proper access solution for your application.
Next, we will tell you about the RollaStep MP Series and how it can make flatbed loading much more accessible. Keep reading to find out more!
Introducing the MP Series: Features and Design
Northern Platforms proudly carries a comprehensive inventory of RollaStep rolling stairs and mobile work platforms. In particular, the MP Series is a highly mobile work platform that offers uncompromising safety as it combines the workspace and stability of a fixed platform with the mobility of a rolling stair.
The MP Series can safely accommodate multiple operators alongside their parts and equipment with a large 9’x3’ work platform, powder-coated handrails, and full-size 45° rise stair stringer. Manufactured from lightweight aluminum and OSHA-compliant, the MP Series from Northern Platforms is a versatile and well-built piece of access equipment that can make loading, unloading, maintenance and more that much easier.
Versatile, Configurable, and Customizable
While the MP Series offers exceptional safety and engineering, there are even more benefits to these rolling stairs. For instance, the removable handrails allow you to cantilever the end handrail or remove an entire side to access flatbed trailers or reach over an obstruction. The handrails can be quickly slid in and out of place without tools, allowing your team to reconfigure these rolling stairs as needed.
Northern Platforms can customize your MP rolling stairs completely for your unique needs. So whether you need a cantilever platform with angled handrails during aircraft applications or padded bumpers to prevent damage to equipment or trailers, Northern Platforms has you covered!
Flatbed Fall Protection with Custom Rolling Stairs
Speaking of customized access solutions, we often see one configuration for the MP Series at Northern Platforms: an extra long length with no handrails on one side specifically for flatbed loading applications. As mentioned, the MP Series rolling stairs can be customized for flatbed applications. This unit provides truck operators the ease and safety of loading and securing their cargo before continuing their travels. The locking 8” swivel casters make moving the unit a breeze, while the safety yellow powder-coated handrails ensure visibility. So, if your loading bay works with flatbed trucks day in and day out, consider investing in a custom MP Series rolling stair and take the safety and efficiency of your operations up a step.
Your Source for Preventative Maintenance and More
Aside from our wide inventory of industry-leading safe access solutions, loading arms, gangways and more, Northern Platforms also offers preventative maintenance services. Our knowledgeable team is trained to perform complete maintenance on each type of equipment we sell. This means that if your manufacturer’s manual says your rolling stairs require semi-annual or annual maintenance, our team is here to help!
We can even work with you to develop a custom maintenance schedule, including detailed work completed reports, that meets your facility’s and equipment’s needs. With replacement parts available and preventative maintenance support, Northern Platforms is your source for safe access solutions and more!
The Safe Access Solutions You Need Close to Home
Located in Leduc, Alberta, Northern Platforms is your Western Canadian source for safe access solutions, loading arms, fall protection and more. Contact us to get a quote on an MP Series rolling stair from RollaStep or to learn more about our equipment maintenance services!
Together, let’s make your operations safer and more efficient.
When it comes to ensuring the safety and accessibility of elevated work areas, having the right equipment is crucial. At Northern Platforms, we understand the unique challenges industries face and are dedicated to providing top-quality, safe access solutions that not only meet your needs but exceed your expectations. One such solution is our portable stairs, also known as mobile stairs, designed to enhance safety and productivity in elevated work environments. Keep reading to find out more!
Why Cheaper Isn’t Always Better
Regarding fall protection, access solutions, and other safety equipment, taking shortcuts by opting for the quick and cheap option isn’t always the best solution. Cheaper mobile stairs may seem like a strategic choice due to their lower price tags, but they often compromise on materials, construction, and functionality to be the price they are. At Northern Platforms, we prioritize manufacturers like SafeRack and RollaStep, as their products are built to last and designed specifically for industrial applications where heavy-duty usage is expected.
When searching for the perfect portable stairs, it’s crucial to steer clear of short-sighted solutions that focus solely on upfront savings. Investing in high-quality equipment means investing in the safety and efficiency of your operations.
Introducing MAUI Mobile Access Units
One of the standout solutions in Northern Platforms’ inventory is the MAUI (Mobile Access Unit – Industrial Model) from SafeRack. This portable truck and railcar access platform is designed to enhance safety and productivity. It’s built with durability in mind, with solid, no-flat tires, stainless locks for secure positioning, and a tested load capacity of 500 pounds. The MAUI is versatile and can be reconfigured in the field for various uses.
It’s also highly maneuverable, incredibly strong, and requires minimal maintenance. Whether you’re working with railcars or tanker trucks, the MAUI provides safe and ergonomic fall protection for elevated work areas. With features such as modular wheel configuration, the ability to convert it for other uses, and compliance with OSHA/ OH&S standards, the MAUI is a comprehensive portable stair solution that ensures the safety of your employees.
Your Source for Expert Installation and Maintenance
Northern Platforms doesn’t stop at providing top-quality equipment; we also offer expert installation services! Our team will visit your site to discuss your project, understand your requirements, and expertly pair the correct, safe access equipment to your application. From conceptual layouts to project execution, we are there every step of the way, ensuring that your equipment is installed in a safe and timely manner. We believe in a holistic understanding of your operation, ensuring that our solutions are not only tailored but also sustainable.
We also offer installation services to further guarantee the successful implementation of your equipment. However, our commitment to your safety doesn’t end with installation; we also provide routine equipment maintenance, including a detailed report on the work completed. Whether you need preventative maintenance on gangways, mobile stairs, or loading arms, available semi-annually or yearly, we have you covered!
Your End-to-end Partner
Prioritizing safety in industrial operations is not an option; it’s a necessity. With Northern Platforms’ mobile stairs and other access solutions, you can significantly enhance safety, productivity, and efficiency in your workplace. Our dedication to understanding your needs, providing top-quality equipment, offering expert installation, and ensuring regular maintenance sets Northern Platforms apart as a trusted partner in your journey toward a safer and more productive work environment.
Make the smart choice and invest in the safety of your team with Northern Platforms. Contact us today to learn more about our inventory of MAUI portable stairs.
Across manufacturing, oil and gas, truck loading, and numerous other industries, modular access platforms have been providing workers with a safe, reliable, and durable means of quickly navigating worksites and facilities. These safe access solutions are critical pieces of fall prevention equipment to ensure your worksite complies with local and national safety standards.
At Northern Platforms, our team is committed to providing outstanding safe access solutions. Our offering of modular access platforms is built to last even through the most challenging environments. So regardless of your industry, Northern Platforms will surely have the access solutions you need to ensure your workers are safe. Below we’ll take a closer look at some of the advantages of Northern Platforms’ modular access platforms. Continue reading to find out more!
Customizable to Fit Your Facility
One of the most significant advantages of ErectaStep’s modular access platforms is their versatility. These platforms offer increased safety and efficiency for your workers and can also be customized to fit your facility’s exact needs. At Northern Platforms, our team can visit your facility and custom design an ErectaStep modular access platform with our digital design tool. This tool also provides an accurate quote and diagram of how your access platform will look, so you can be sure your modular access platform will be a perfect fit. Moreover, ErectaStep modular access platforms are simple to install. Regardless of the obstacles or hazards present in your facility, you can ensure efficient access by utilizing modular access platforms from Northern Platforms.
Industry-Leading Quality
ErectaStep is an industry-leading manufacturer of modular safe access solutions. Their pre-engineered modular access platforms are manufactured with robotic welding machines equipped with the latest laser cutting technology. This combination of technology and quality manufacturing means that ErectaStep’s modular access platforms are built to last. For decades, ErectaStep’s modular access platforms have worked hard to ensure that worksites are safe, accessible, and efficient. At Northern Platforms, we take pride in our partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers like ErectaStep; that’s why Northern Platforms is your premier Western access solutions distributor.
Access to Expert Support
When you require safe access solutions like modular access platforms, you need expert support from Northern Platforms. At Northern Platforms, our team is here to help you determine the best access solutions for your unique applications. Our experts can even visit your worksite to identify potential challenges your facility may be dealing with and then offer possible solutions for you to choose from. From custom modular access platform configurations to installation support, preventative maintenance and more, Northern Platforms proudly provides a comprehensive range of turnkey solutions to ensure your worksite is safe and accessible. So when you’re ready to improve the safety and efficiency of your facility, Northern Platforms is prepared to help!
Modular Access Platforms and More from Northern Platforms!
Located in Leduc, Alberta, Northern Platforms is proud to be Western Canada’s preferred access solutions expert. Our comprehensive access and loading solutions inventory includes industry-leading brands like ErectaStep, RollaStep, SafeRack, OPW and more! If you’ve been searching for safe, efficient, and reliable access solutions for your facility, Northern Platforms is here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our offering of modular access platforms and our numerous other access solutions.
