At SafeRack, we understand dedication to doing the job right and the importance of safety above all else. This Christmas, we celebrate the hardworking individuals who give their all each day—not just for their teams at work, but for their loved ones waiting at home.

We know you rise before dawn, putting in long hours to provide for your families. You work hard and give it your all, because they depend on you. And at the end of the day, when you finally walk through the door to see their smiling faces, you know it’s all worth it.

This Christmas, we honor your commitment and remind you that your safety matters—to your families and to us. Because they rely on you, you can rely on us.

The post A Heartfelt Christmas Message from SafeRack appeared first on SafeRack.

Key Points You’ll Learn:

• Common Chemical Hazards: Understand the primary risks in chemical manufacturing, including chemical exposure, fire, spills, equipment failure, and fall risks.
• Safety Guidelines: Learn essential safety measures such as proper labeling, PPE use, chemical compatibility, and emergency preparedness.
• Fall Prevention: Explore how gangways, platforms, and anti-slip products enhance worker safety around hazardous substances.
• Spill Containment: Discover products to manage chemical spills and leaks to prevent contamination and exposure.
• SafeRack Solutions: See how SafeRack’s products, like gangways and spill containment systems, improve chemical safety and regulatory compliance.

The Importance of Chemical Safety

Manufacturing facilities in the chemical industry utilize dangerous chemicals, from solvents and acids to gases and flammable materials. These substances pose various risks to operators and visitors, including exposure to toxic fumes, skin contact with corrosive materials, and the potential for explosive reactions. Ensuring chemical safety is not just a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative to protect workers from harm.

Common Hazards in Chemical Manufacturing

Chemical manufacturing presents several hazards that require careful management. Among the most significant are:

• Chemical Exposure: Inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with hazardous chemicals can lead to acute or chronic health issues, including respiratory problems, chemical burns, or poisoning.
• Fire and Explosions: Flammable chemicals and volatile substances can ignite or explode if not handled properly, causing severe injuries or fatalities.
• Spills and Leaks: Accidental spills and leaks can lead to contamination, slip hazards, and exposure to toxic substances.
• Equipment Malfunction: Faulty or improperly maintained equipment can release hazardous chemicals or fail to contain them, leading to exposure risks.
• Falls and Slips: Working around chemicals often requires accessing elevated areas or navigating slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of falls and related injuries.

General Chemical Safety Guidelines

To mitigate the risks associated with chemical manufacturing and ensure the safety of employees, companies should implement the following comprehensive safety practices:

Labeling and Storage: All chemicals should be labeled accurately and stored according to compatibility guidelines to prevent dangerous reactions.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers should be equipped with appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, and lab coats, to safeguard against exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Keep SDS accessible for every chemical in the facility. These sheets provide critical information on hazards, safe handling, and emergency procedures.

Chemical Compatibility: Understand chemical interactions to prevent accidental reactions. Properly segregate incompatible chemicals during storage and use.

Training and Emergency Preparedness: Regular training on chemical safety protocols and emergency procedures, such as spill response, ensures workers are prepared for potential incidents.

Waste Disposal: Adhere to correct hazardous waste disposal methods to protect the environment and comply with regulations.

Products that Enhance Chemical Safety

There is a range of products designed to improve safety in chemical manufacturing facilities. These solutions can help address key safety challenges, particularly in fall prevention and safe chemical handling.

Gangways and Platforms: Gangways and platforms provide safe access to trucks, railcars, and other elevated work areas. With features like self-leveling stairs and adjustable platforms, these products reduce the risk of falls while ensuring secure footing for workers handling chemicals.

Safety Cages and Handrails: Safety cages and handrails are designed to prevent falls from elevated surfaces, offering additional protection in areas where chemicals are used or stored. These structures can be customized to fit specific work environments and are built to withstand harsh chemical conditions.

Spill Containment Solutions: Spill containment systems, including track pans and spill berms, help contain leaks and spills, preventing them from spreading and reducing the risk of exposure and environmental contamination.

Anti-Slip Products: Anti-slip products, such as treads and coatings, are essential for preventing slips and falls in areas where chemicals are present. These products are designed to maintain traction, even in wet or oily conditions.

Conclusion

Chemical safety in manufacturing is essential for protecting workers and maintaining a safe work environment. By following best practices to keep employees and visitors safe on site and utilizing safety solutions, manufacturing companies can significantly reduce the risks associated with chemical hazards. Whether through fall prevention, proper chemical handling, or emergency preparedness, prioritizing safety ensures that manufacturing processes remain efficient and accidents are minimized.

Investing in the proper safety equipment and protocols protects workers and helps companies comply with regulatory standards and avoid costly incidents. SafeRack is committed to providing the tools and solutions necessary to support these efforts, making chemical manufacturing environments safer for everyone.

Ensure your facility is fully equipped to handle chemical hazards safely. Contact a SafeRack representative to explore our range of spill containment solutions, gangways, and anti-slip products designed to protect workers and maintain compliance with safety regulations.

The post Chemical Safety in Manufacturing Plants: Protecting Workers & Preventing Accidents appeared first on SafeRack.

Importance of WHS Programs

WHS programs are designed to identify and mitigate risks in the workplace, ensuring that employees operate in a safe environment. These programs are crucial for preventing accidents, injuries, and illnesses that can occur due to unsafe work practices or hazardous conditions.

Protecting Employees

The primary goal of any WHS program is to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. By identifying potential hazards and implementing safety measures, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of workplace accidents. A safe work environment not only prevents injuries but also boosts employee morale and job satisfaction. “Implementing a robust Workplace Health & Safety program is not just about meeting regulatory requirements—it’s about fostering a culture of safety that protects our most valuable asset: our employees,” says Ryan McLaughlin, Environmental Health & Safety Director for SixAxis. “We believe that a safe work environment leads to a more engaged and productive workforce, ultimately driving our success and innovation.” When employees feel safe, they are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work, leading to a more positive and efficient workplace.

Enhancing Productivity

Accidents and injuries can disrupt operations and lead to downtime. By preventing such incidents through effective WHS programs, companies help maintain steady productivity levels. Moreover, safe, well-maintained equipment and clear safety protocols can streamline workflows and improve efficiency. Employees can perform their tasks without the constant fear of injury, which allows them to focus better and work more efficiently.

Ensuring Compliance

Compliance with OSHA and IBC standards is a legal requirement and critical to maintaining a safe workplace. OSHA and IBC standards set the minimum requirements for workplace safety and health, and compliance with these standards helps prevent legal penalties and fines. “Compliance with OSHA and IBC standards is fundamental to operations at SafeRack and all of our facilities,” underscores McLaughlin. “Our commitment to these standards ensures that we not only meet legal obligations but also continuously improve our safety practices. This proactive approach minimizes risks, enhances efficiency, and builds trust with our clients and employees alike.” Regular safety audits and inspections are often part of WHS programs to ensure ongoing compliance with OSHA and IBC regulations.

IBC and OSHA standards are also crucial for safely handling and transporting hazardous materials. Compliance with these standards ensures that such materials are managed safely, preventing spills and accidents. This protects employees and safeguards the environment from contamination due to improper handling of chemicals and other hazardous substances.

Key Benefits of Implementing a WHS Program

Implementing a WHS program offers numerous benefits beyond compliance and employee protection. 

1. Financial Savings – Companies with effective WHS programs often benefit from lower insurance premiums due to reduced risks. Insurance providers recognize that businesses with strong safety records are less likely to file claims, leading to significant savings. Additionally, compliance with safety regulations helps avoid costly fines and legal fees associated with workplace accidents and violations. These financial benefits can be substantial, incentivizing companies to invest in comprehensive WHS programs.
2. Improved Reputation – A strong safety record enhances a company’s reputation as a responsible and desirable employer. Companies known for their commitment to safety can attract top talent, as prospective employees are more likely to choose workplaces where their well-being is prioritized. Furthermore, clients and partners are more likely to do business with companies that prioritize safety, ensuring their operations are reliable and ethical. This improved reputation can lead to increased business opportunities and long-term success.
3. Employee Involvement and Satisfaction – An occupational safety and health program encourages employee involvement through safety committees, suggestion programs, and regular training sessions. This involvement fosters a culture of safety and shared responsibility. Employees who feel their input is valued are likelier to adhere to safety protocols and contribute to a safer work environment. Additionally, employees who feel safe and valued are more satisfied with their jobs, leading to lower turnover rates and higher levels of job commitment. This positive work environment can enhance overall company morale and productivity.
4. Long-Term Success – WHS programs contribute to the sustainability of operations by ensuring that safety practices are continuously improved and adapted to changing conditions and new regulations. A proactive approach to workplace safety promotes continuous improvement, helping companies stay ahead of potential risks and challenges. By investing in a comprehensive WHS program, companies can achieve long-term success and foster a culture of safety and well-being. This commitment to safety can also enhance the company’s resilience and ability to navigate future challenges.

Incorporating a Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) program is not just about compliance; it is about creating a safer, more productive, and more reputable organization. The benefits of such programs are extensive, ranging from protecting employees and enhancing productivity to ensuring compliance with OSHA and IBC standards. By investing in a comprehensive WHS program, companies can achieve long-term success and foster a culture of safety and well-being.

Ready to elevate your workplace safety and compliance standards? SafeRack offers industry-leading solutions that integrate seamlessly into your Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) program. Contact us today to learn how we can help you create a safer, more efficient work environment.

The post Benefits of a Workplace Health & Safety Program: Compliance, Policies, and Standards appeared first on SafeRack.

Understanding Ergonomics in Access Platforms

Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment and systems that fit the human body’s natural movements and capabilities. In the context of industrial access platforms, ergonomics focuses on creating work areas and equipment that minimize physical strain and reduce the risk of injuries for the people who use them. This is particularly important for workers involved in loading and unloading bulk materials into railcars, trucks, and marine environments, where repetitive movements made in awkward positions are common.

Benefits of Ergonomic Access Platforms

1. Enhanced Worker Safety

The primary benefit of ergonomic access platforms is the significant reduction in workplace injuries. Fitting the work environment and equipment to the people who use it can significantly decrease musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers​​. Ergonomically designed platforms, such as the GX Gangway and the MAXRack Elevating Safety Cage, are engineered to provide safe and efficient access, reducing the risk of falls while also preventing muscle strains from repetitive motion. These platforms incorporate features like adjustable heights and easy-to-use controls, ensuring workers can maintain optimal postures and avoid unnecessary strain.

2. Increased Comfort and Reduced Fatigue

Ergonomically designed work platforms also contribute to worker comfort by reducing physical fatigue. For instance, ErectaStep mobile modular platforms are designed to be lightweight yet sturdy, allowing for easy maneuverability and minimal exertion. Features like self-leveling stairs and telescoping extensions accommodate various vehicle heights and access points, ensuring workers do not have to overreach or bend excessively, thus maintaining comfort and stability throughout their daily tasks.

3. Boosted Productivity

Comfortable and safe workers are more productive. Studies have shown that ergonomic interventions can increase productivity significantly​​. Workers who are not slowed down by discomfort or need frequent breaks due to fatigue or pain can perform their tasks more efficiently. ErectaStep modular access solutions are designed for quick assembly and easy reconfiguration, enabling seamless workflow and reducing downtime due to injury.

4. Financial Benefits

Investing in ergonomic access platforms can lead to substantial financial benefits. The National Safety Council estimates that the total cost of work-related injuries in 2022 in the United States was $167 billion, including lost wages and productivity, medical expenses, and administrative costs​​. By reducing the incidence of injuries and associated costs, companies can see a direct positive impact on their bottom line. Moreover, improved productivity translates to higher output and potentially greater profits.

Key Features of Ergonomic Access Platforms

Adjustable Heights and Angles: Platforms like ErectaStep’s modular work platforms feature adjustable heights and angles, which allow workers to maintain neutral postures regardless of the height of the equipment they are accessing.

Lightweight Materials: ErectaStep’s platforms are made of lightweight, durable materials, which reduces the physical effort required to move and adjust them, minimizing strain on workers.

Intuitive Controls: Ergonomic platforms incorporate user-friendly controls that reduce the need for awkward movements. For example, the MAXRack Elevating Safety Cage can be adjusted with simple controls, making it easier for workers to maintain balance and control.

Slip-Resistant Surfaces: Platforms with slip-resistant surfaces, like those offered by SafeRack and ErectaStep, ensure that workers have secure footing, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Case Study: Financial Impact of Ergonomic Improvements

Consider this compelling case for ergonomic improvements in manufacturing. At Deere and Company, implementing an ergonomics program significantly improved workplace safety and productivity. Initially, heavy lifting and poorly designed tools led to repetitive motion injuries and high workers’ compensation costs, which increased by 15% annually. 

By involving workers in the early stages of the program, Deere and Company identified key issues and made necessary adjustments, such as redesigning workspaces and introducing ergonomically sound tools. This resulted in an 83% reduction in back injuries and a 32% drop in healthcare costs over ten years, highlighting the critical role of ergonomically sound equipment in manufacturing.

Conclusion

Ergonomics in access platforms is not just about compliance with safety standards; it’s about creating a work environment that promotes health, safety, and efficiency. By investing in ergonomically designed access platforms, businesses can protect employees from injury, reduce downtime, enhance productivity, and achieve significant financial savings. SafeRack’s commitment to ergonomic design of access platforms underscores the critical role these innovations play in modern industrial safety and efficiency.

Improve worker safety and productivity with SafeRack’s ergonomic access platforms. Explore our stairs, ladders, and loading platforms to see how we can help create a safer, more efficient work environment. Contact us today to learn more.

The post Ergonomics and Industrial Platforms: A Key to Safer Work Environments appeared first on SafeRack.

The Manufacturing Mavens recognition is part of the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo, which celebrates innovation and leadership in manufacturing. Now in its second year, the initiative spotlights female trailblazers contributing to South Carolina’s economic growth and development.

Michele and other honorees will be celebrated at a luncheon event on November 8, 2024, at the Greenville Convention Center.

“We are thrilled to see Michele’s dedication and leadership recognized,” said Scott Warofka, Associate Publisher at SC Biz News. “The Manufacturing Mavens embody the spirit of innovation and perseverance in an industry vital to South Carolina’s economy.”

As a valued member of SixAxis, SafeRack is committed to supporting leaders like Michele, who drive change and inspire the next generation of women in manufacturing. Congratulations to Michele and all of the honorees for their remarkable contributions to the industry.

In addition to her role at SafeRack, Michele is an active member of the Women in Manufacturing Association (WiM), the only national and global trade association dedicated to supporting women in the manufacturing sector. WiM represents over 28,000 individual members from over 3,000 manufacturing companies worldwide and provides a wide range of resources, including virtual learning, career fairs, networking groups, and professional development programs. As Sponsorship Director for the South Carolina Chapter, Michele is key in advancing WiM’s mission to inspire and promote women in manufacturing careers.

SC Biz News – ANNOUNCING: Meet the 2024 Manufacturing Mavens honorees

The post Michele Thompson Recognized as 2024 Manufacturing Maven appeared first on SafeRack.

Effortless Mobility with Oversized Wheels

RollaStep mobile stairs and ladders are engineered with large, oversized wheels, making them easy to maneuver across various terrains. Whether navigating uneven surfaces in a yard or repositioning the stairs in a busy facility, the smooth-rolling design ensures that you can move your equipment effortlessly and securely.

Weather-Resistant and Long-Lasting Construction

Constructed from high-grade aluminum with powder-coated handrails, RollaStep products are built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. This corrosion-resistant design prevents rust and ensures a long service life, even in demanding environments. The all-weather capability of our mobile stairs and ladders makes them a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

Convenient Storage and Versatility

One of RollaStep’s standout features is its ability to store the units easily when not in use. Because it’s easy to move, these mobile ladders and stairs can be quickly moved out of the way, optimizing space in your facility and maintaining a clutter-free work area. The lightweight yet sturdy construction allows for single-user operation, further enhancing the convenience and practicality of RollaStep products.

Ideal for Industrial Applications

RollaStep mobile stairs are perfect for accessing vehicles, such as during tarping and tying down truck loads. When not needed, they can be easily rolled into a storage area, showcasing their versatility and efficiency in real-world applications. By choosing SafeRack’s RollaStep, you’re investing in a product that combines safety, mobility, and durability, ensuring compliance with OSHA standards while improving operational efficiency.

The post Mobile Stairs – Easy to move and easy to store appeared first on SafeRack.

Location	Mediterranean Sea
Customer	Energean Power
Product	25 ErectaStep Stairs and Platforms
Industry	Marine & Energy
Facility Type	Floating Production, Storage, Offloading) vessel

ErectaStep’s products are ideal for maritime environments due to their aluminum construction, which resists corrosion and rust.

Logistics and Coordination

The energy company’s procurement team in Greece managed the purchase and logistics, ensuring the smooth shipment of materials to Israel, where they were then transported to the vessel. Each of the 25 ErectaStep stair and access systems was configured to the specific requirements of the equipment and locations throughout the FPSO vessel. SafeRack streamlined the installation process by ‘spot packing’ the components, making them easy to identify and assemble on the vessel. SafeRack collaborated with the customer’s engineering contractor to ensure the correct placement and configuration for each platform and stair configuration. The modular, bolt-together design of ErectaStep components allowed for quick and efficient on-site assembly without the need for welding or heavy equipment. Any fitment issues were easily resolved by adjusting the modular components as needed, minimizing downtime and logistical challenges.

Installation Gallery

The ErectaStep products were utilized for various critical access points on the FPSO vessel, including:
Gas Turbines Access, Essential Generator Fuel Gas Valve Access, Rich Meg Filter Access, Flash Gas Compressor Access, Produced Water Skid Panel Access, Sales Gas Compressor AFT and Port-side Access, Distribution Meg Filter Access

ErectaStep’s modular design allowed for quick and efficient installation without the need for welding or heavy equipment.

Project Success:

The initial order comprised 25 platforms. Following the successful implementation, an additional order for 8 platforms was placed, signifying the project’s success and the reliability of ErectaStep products.

Key Product Features:

1. Durable Construction: Marine-grade aluminum ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion.
2. Modular Design: Allows for infinite configurations and easy on-site assembly.
3. Safety Compliance: All products meet OSHA standards for stairs, ladders, work platforms, and guardrails, ensuring safe work environments.
4. Ease of Installation: Prefabricated components that bolt together, eliminating the need for hot permits or welding.

The ErectaStep installations on the FPSO vessel demonstrate SafeRack’s capability to provide robust and adaptable access solutions for complex marine environments. These installations not only improve operational efficiency but also ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

SafeRack Marine Loading Solutions

Marine Gangways

SafeRack’s MarinaStep barge access and ship access gangways are advanced, corrosion-resistant aluminum marine gangways that are designed for code-compliant worker safety, durability, and reliability in marine environments and are built to order to your required length and specifications that are built to last.

More on SafeRack’s Marine Gangways

Marine Loading and Unloading Systems

A full range of products and services of Fluid Transfer Systems, Hose Handling Systems, Tandem Mooring Systems, Large Bore Flexible Hose Systems, Marine Coupling Systems, and Loading Platforms.

More on Marine Hose and Loading Arms

Energean Power FPSO Producing at Full Capacity

Vessel Details:

• IMO Number: 9889162
• Vessel Name: Energean Power
• Ship Type: Offshore Support Vessel
• Flag: Marshall Islands
• Gross Tonnage: 94,290
• Summer Deadweight: 148,089 tons
• Length Overall: 227 meters
• Beam: 50 meters
• Year of Build: 2022

Energean, an oil and gas company, has been a significant player in the energy sector. The Energean Power FPSO vessel, moored 80 kilometers west of Israel’s coast, has reached its maximum gas production capacity, supporting the Karish North and Karish fields. The vessel processes and exports gas to various power stations in Israel, enhancing energy security and supply stability in the region.

The post SafeRack’s ErectaStep Installations on a FPSO Vessel appeared first on SafeRack.

What is ISO 14001:2015?

ISO 14001:2015 specifies the requirements for an environmental management system (EMS) that an organization can use to enhance its environmental performance. This standard is intended for organizations looking to systematically manage their environmental responsibilities and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Benefits of ISO 14001:2015 Certification

Achieving ISO 14001:2015 certification demonstrates our commitment to:

• Sustainable Practices: This certification reflects our dedication to reducing environmental impact through sustainable business practices.
• Compliance and Quality: ISO 14001:2015 is a globally recognized standard that ensures our compliance with environmental laws and regulations, enhancing the quality and reliability of our products.
• Continuous Improvement: We are committed to improving our environmental performance, ensuring our operations are efficient and environmentally responsible.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

At SixAxis, we recognize the critical role of environmental management in our business processes. This certification highlights our leadership and commitment in this area, integrating environmental management into our core business strategy. We strive to:

• Involve top management in environmental initiatives.
• Enhance environmental protection throughout our processes.
• Adopt a life cycle approach to our production systems.
• Ensure transparent, truthful, reliable, and understandable communication of environmental information to all stakeholders.

The post SafeRack Achieves ISO 14001:2105 Certification appeared first on SafeRack.

Introducing the next-generation YellowGate, setting a new standard in industrial safety with unmatched installation speed. Designed to make safety effortless, YellowGate is pre-assembled so it installs in seconds with no special tools required, securing your facility in just three simple steps.

Go To YellowGate.com

The standard industrial YellowGate safety gates cover openings between 24” and 36” and can be adjusted in the field with nothing more than a wrench. Simply measure the opening, slide the gate to the desired width, tighten the adjustment bolts, and you’re done. This flexibility allows you to save time and money while maintaining the highest safety standards for your facility.

Manufactured in the USA from heavy-gauge aluminum, YellowGate is built to last and complies with OSHA regulations. The pre-assembled design eliminates the need for field cutting, drilling, or special tools, making installation as quick and effortless as possible. Additionally, YellowGate is in stock and ready to ship, ensuring your facility’s safety without delay.

YellowGate is not just a safety gate; it’s a comprehensive efficiency solution designed to meet your facility’s demands. With its swift installation, extensive adjustability, and dedication to quality and sustainability, YellowGate is the premier choice for securing industrial passageways efficiently and effectively.

Upgrade to YellowGate and prioritize safety and efficiency at your facility today!

The post NEW – Introducing the Next Generation of Safety Gates appeared first on SafeRack.

In both industrial and non-industrial environments, the requirement for a step, stair, or ramp is required when there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more to be OSHA compliant.

Here’s an example of two different industrial facilities with a 1-step ErectaStep unit installed to be OSHA compliant and, as importantly, provide safe access points for workers to navigate around the plant. Because ErectaStep’s metal stairs are modular with parts always in stock, these units could be shipped and installed the next day. No engineering or fabrication is needed; they are just anchored to the cement without special tools.

Ray Evans, who has been with SafeRack since 2003 and currently serves as a Market Specialist, offers insights into the impact of material choices on safety, productivity, and overall business success, particularly regarding stairs and access solutions.
Contact Ray or follow him on LinkedIn

ErectaStep’s Easy Solutions – Both Compliance and Safety

ErectaStep’s pre-engineered, modular, and fully compliant metal stairs, platforms, and crossovers are easy to meet OSHA standards. Our modular stairs not only save time and are cost-efficient, but they’re also adaptable to various industrial and commercial environments. The modularity of ErectaStep’s products ensures that they can fit the specific needs of any site, helping to prevent common workplace incidents such as trips, slips, and falls by providing reliable access solutions​​​​.

Key Benefits of ErectaStep Stair Units

• OSHA Compliant: All ErectaStep stair and access platforms meet the critical safety standards set by OSHA, ensuring that they help maintain a safe working environment​​.
• Modularity and Customization: The modular design allows for quick assembly and easy adaptation to various heights and configurations, making them ideal for virtually any application​​.
• Durability: Constructed from industrial-grade materials, ErectaStep’s products are designed to withstand harsh environments without succumbing to rust or degradation​​.
• Ease of Installation: ErectaStep’s products are prefabricated and designed for easy onsite assembly, requiring no welding and minimal tools​​.

Practical Application in Industrial Settings

ErectaStep’s solutions are prominently used where quick and safe access is needed over obstacles such as pipes, spill containment dike walls, or uneven ground. Our product range, from simple one-step units to complex multi-level stair systems, allows facilities to implement safety measures without engineering, welding, or custom fabrication.

Conclusion

Understanding when a step is required to maintain safety standards in any facility is important. By integrating ErectaStep’s compliant and customizable stair solutions, businesses can enhance the safety and accessibility of their operations, ensuring that they not only meet regulatory requirements but also protect their employees from potential hazards. For more detailed information on implementing these solutions in your facility, consider contacting ErectaStep for a consultation or a demonstration of their products​​.

The post When is a Step Required? appeared first on SafeRack.

Sponsored by CNA, the endorsed business insurance carrier for FMA, the Awards are designed to promote safety in the industry, and winners are selected by the FMA Safety Council. The Safety Award of Merit is given to companies posting an injury and illness incidence rate for the reporting period that is better than the published Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) rate by 10 percent or greater, based on their NAICS code.

To be eligible to receive recognition, companies were required to submit OSHA Form 300A, Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, for the period Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2023. Firms of all sizes were eligible. Winners were selected based on North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code categories and BLS injury and illness incidence rates. The complete list of 2024 award winners has been published on FMA’s blog.

SafeRack is the recognized industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms and related safety and fall protection products.

About FMA  

The Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) supports the workforce lifecycle in the metal fabricating industry by bringing awareness of manufacturing careers to the next generation, helping metal fabricators to hone their skills, and engaging them through conferences and tradeshows. Founded in 1970, FMA is a co-founder and co-sponsor of FABTECH, the industry’s leading tradeshow, and the publisher of The Fabricator, The Tube and Pipe Journal, The Welder, The Fabricator en Español, Canadian Metalworking, and Canadian Fabricating and Welding. Learn more about FMA.

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1. Selecting Fall Protection Equipment:

• Choose equipment for chemical environments: Select fall protection equipment that is specifically designed for chemical loading areas. Ensure the materials are resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and chemical exposure to maintain reliability and effectiveness under harsh conditions.

2. Ensuring Ease of Use and Adjustability:

• Opt for User-Friendly Gear: Make sure the fall protection gear, such as harnesses and lanyards, is easy to put on and adjust. This will help workers to equip themselves quickly and correctly, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing safety.

3. Implementing Regular Inspection and Maintenance:

• Schedule Inspections: Establish a routine schedule for inspecting and maintaining all fall protection equipment. This practice helps to identify wear or damage early and ensures that the equipment is always in prime condition for worker protection.

4. Providing Worker Training and Education:

• Conduct Comprehensive Training: Offer thorough training on the correct use, inspection, and maintenance of fall protection equipment. This empowers workers to spot potential hazards, use the equipment properly, and maintain a safe working environment.

5. Emphasizing the Importance of Safety Measures:

• Maintain Safety Protocols: It’s crucial to have the right safety measures and protocols in place to protect everyone involved in bulk railcar chemical loading operations.

6. Learn More About SafeRack:

• Explore SafeRack Products: SafeRack is recognized as the industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms, and related safety and fall protection products.

By following these instructions, you can ensure a safer work environment during bulk railcar chemical loading operations, protect workers from potential hazards, and contribute to the overall safety culture of your workplace.

To learn more about our products and how we can help keep your workplace safe, contact a member of our team today.

The post Key Considerations for Fall Protection in Bulk Railcar Chemical Loading Operations appeared first on SafeRack.

Celebrating Success: SafeRack’s Sales Team Triumphs in 2023

Mount Pleasant, SC – Amidst the backdrop of the USS Yorktown, SafeRack’s sales team recently celebrated a year marked by unwavering commitment to safety and customer excellence. This gathering in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, celebrated achievements and reaffirmed our core mission: to provide safe access solutions and unparalleled service in the field by enhancing Collaboration and Growth in 2024!

A Commitment to Safety and Service: Our sales team is at the forefront of this mission. Each member plays a pivotal role in ensuring that every product we offer meets the highest safety standards and that every client interaction is imbued with our dedication to excellence.

Celebrating Our Safety Champions

(L-R) Bryce Jordan, Tom Merschdorf, Phillip King, Nate Elliott, Shane Lykke, Cody Harris, and John Nance (VP of sales)

Cody Harris, representing the Gulf Coast, was honored for his outstanding dedication to providing safe and reliable solutions.

(L-R) John Nance (VP of Sales), Brad Lamberton, Cody Harris, Travis McCrane, Nate Elliott, Jason McKinney, and Jack Murphy (Chief Commercial Officer)

Jason McKinney

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ErectaStep Award Winners

(L-R) John Nance (VP of Sales), Florens Verstraten (Business Unit Leader), Derek Rose, Shane Lykke, Jon Verlander, Nate Elliott, Cody Harris, Bryce Jordan, Phillip King, and Jack Murphy (Chief Commercial Officer)
Jody Ashworth (not pictured)

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King of ErectaStep

Jon Verlander

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Tom Semiklose Award

Tom Semiklose awarded Raquel Strickland for exemplifying the spirit of customer-first service, commercial excellence, resilience, and humility, all while upholding our safety values.

This event reflected SafeRack’s dedication to safety and customer excellence. We congratulate all our awardees and thank our entire sales team for their commitment to keeping workers safe and customers satisfied.

The post SafeRack Celebrates a Stellar 2023! appeared first on SafeRack.

In the world of specialty chemicals, safety, efficiency, and product integrity are non-negotiable. A prominent chemical company in the Southeastern United States recently faced a significant challenge: unloading eight distinct flammable solvents from tank trucks while maintaining the highest safety standards and eliminating the risk of product cross-contamination. At the outset, the company’s objective was to explore using chemical hoses for bottom unloading and vapor capture. However, with SafeRack’s consultative approach to safety solutions, a more efficient and ergonomic alternative emerged: installing rigid pipe loading arms, complemented by safety breakaway couplings and dry-break disconnects.

Bulk Chemical Specialist

“As subject matter expert, I’ll leverage my years of experience as your personal consultant throughout the project to ensure you get a world-class solution.”

Ray Evans

 – 

Bulk Chemical Market Specialist

Contract#  47QSAWA19D0085  

Project Objectives:

1. Ensure Unparalleled Safety: The primary goal was to implement a system that guaranteed the utmost safety for both operators and valuable assets during the unloading process.
2. Enhance Operational Efficiency: The project aimed to streamline the unloading process, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
3. Prevent Product Cross-Contamination: The chemical company sought to eliminate the risk of product cross-contamination, a critical concern when dealing with multiple solvents.

Project Components:

A. Rigid Pipe Loading Arms:

• Balance and Control: SafeRack’s loading arm solutions are meticulously balanced throughout their range of motion, allowing for precise control and ease of use.
• Asset and Operator Protection: These loading arms are designed to avoid contact with the ground, safeguarding valuable assets and operators alike.
• Ergonomic Design: SafeRack’s loading arms feature ergonomic design principles, enabling one-person operation and promoting worker safety and comfort.
• Seamless Positioning: Operators can effortlessly move the loading arms into position while preparing for the tanker connection, reducing downtime.
• Neat Storage: After unloading, the loading arms can be neatly parked, reducing clutter and minimizing tripping hazards.

SafeRack, North America’s leading provider of truck and railcar loading systems, is also the largest distributor for OPW and Emco Wheaton loading arms. Our expert coordination with engineers streamlines loading arm projects. Plus, we offer a vast range of swivel joints for complex liquid handling needs, ensuring greater productivity in your railcar loading systems. Choose SafeRack for efficiency and excellence.

B. Safety Breakaway Couplings:

• Emergency Disconnect: Safety breakaway couplings provide an automatic disconnect mechanism in case a driver accidentally pulls away while still connected, preventing dangerous spillage and ensuring safety in unexpected situations.

C. Dry-Break Disconnects with “Selectivity” Option:

• Precise Product Control: Dry-break couplers with a “selectivity” option allow for accurate control over product transfer, reducing the risk of unintended mixing or contamination.

Project Results:

The chemical company’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and product integrity culminated in the successful implementation of SafeRack’s solutions:

• Operator Safety: The installation of rigid pipe loading arms significantly enhanced operator safety during the unloading process, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Operational Efficiency: The streamlined unloading process, thanks to SafeRack’s loading arms, improved operational efficiency, reducing downtime and increasing overall productivity.
• Product Integrity: Dry-break disconnects with “selectivity” options effectively prevented product cross-contamination, ensuring the integrity of each solvent being unloaded.
• Customized Solutions: Collaborating with trusted fluid transfer channel partners, SafeRack designed double-sided stand posts that efficiently supported the new loading arms, minimizing the footprint at each unloading station.

This project profile highlights how SafeRack’s consultative approach and comprehensive safety solutions played a pivotal role in enhancing safety and efficiency while unloading flammable solvents. By implementing rigid pipe loading arms, safety breakaway couplings, and dry-break disconnects, the chemical company achieved its safety and efficiency goals and reduced the risk of product cross-contamination. SafeRack’s dedication to delivering tailored safety solutions makes it an invaluable partner for industries committed to safe and responsible chemical handling.

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Replacement Parts

Tackling Drive-Offs and Equipment Damage: Drive-offs can cause significant damage to critical components like safety cages and springs. Having replacement parts on hand is your first line of defense against the downtime that follows such incidents.

Order replacement Parts: Ordering your replacement parts is a breeze. A simple phone call sets you on a path to receiving the needed parts within about five days, ensuring your facility is back up and running quickly.

Consider a MAUI Backup Unit for Your Facility

Immediate Deployment: In the face of an equipment failure, MAUI (Mobile Access Unit for Industry) mobile stairs serve as an immediate solution, especially if the unit is already on site. This means your facility remains operational even when the unexpected happens.

Additional Benefits: Aside from acting as a backup, MAUI units provide overflow options, enhancing operational flexibility during peak times or unforeseen equipment failure.

Perform Preventative Maintenance or Schedule an Inspection

Long-Term Operational Efficiency: Regular preventative maintenance isn’t just about averting equipment failure; it’s about ensuring the long-term efficiency and safety of your operations. Scheduling regular inspections helps identify and fix potential issues before they escalate into major problems.

Preventative maintenance is an investment in the longevity and efficiency of your equipment.

Scheduling an inspection or maintenance service is straightforward, mirroring the ease of ordering replacement parts. A proactive maintenance approach saves you time and significant repair costs in the long run.

Being prepared with replacement parts, considering a MAUI mobile stair unit, and adhering to a regular maintenance schedule are proactive steps in ensuring the continuous, smooth operation of your facility. Reach out to SafeRack today to secure your operations against unforeseen operational hitches.

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Firstly, effective communication is key to implementing safety policies. These policies must not exist solely in the realm of management or HR documentation; they should be communicated clearly and consistently to all employees. Utilize multiple mediums such as emails, meetings, signage, and digital platforms to ensure everyone understands the safety protocols. Additionally, training sessions can illustrate how policies apply to day-to-day operations, providing tangible context.

Another key strategy is fostering a culture of safety. A positive safety culture stems from leadership’s commitment to safety, demonstrated through actions, not just words. Leaders should model safe behaviors, invest in high-quality safety equipment, and prioritize safety even when under production pressure. By doing so, they set a standard, encouraging employees to internalize and respect safety policies.

While establishing a safety culture, it’s critical to engage employees in the process. Empower workers to be safety advocates by involving them in policy creation, safety audits, and hazard identification. This involvement not only leverages their firsthand knowledge but also fosters ownership and accountability for safety practices.

Technological integration can also help translate policies into practices. Tools like safety management software can track policy compliance, report incidents, and offer insights for improvement. Wearable technology can monitor workers’ health and fatigue levels, ensuring they’re fit to carry out their duties safely.

Despite robust policies and training, lapses can occur. An effective way to prevent this is through regular safety audits and inspections. These checks help identify instances where practice doesn’t align with policy, allowing for timely corrective actions. Further, they can help uncover any inadequacies in the safety policies themselves.

Learning from mistakes is also important to bridge the policy-practice gap. Whenever incidents occur, conduct thorough investigations to understand the root cause. Use these findings to amend safety policies and practices, turning setbacks into opportunities for improvement.

Lastly, incentivizing safety can drive policy adherence. Reward systems that recognize individuals or teams for exemplary safety practices can encourage adherence and foster a competitive spirit for safety. However, it’s crucial to ensure that these incentives don’t discourage the reporting of safety incidents.

In conclusion, bridging the gap between safety policy and practice in industrial environments involves a blend of communication, culture building, employee engagement, technological integration, regular audits, learning from mistakes, and incentives. By focusing on these areas, businesses can ensure that their safety policies are not merely theoretical but are effectively put into practice, ensuring a safer and more productive industrial work environment.

SafeRack is the recognized industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms, and related safety and fall protection products. To learn more about our products and how we can help to keep your workplace safe, contact a member of our team today. 

The post Workplace Safety: Bridging the Gap Between Policy and Practice in Industrial Work Environments appeared first on SafeRack.

Firstly, it’s crucial to comprehend the key changes in the revised standard. The modifications primarily focus on hazard classification, labels, and safety data sheets.

Major changes to the Hazard Communication Standard

• Hazard classification: Provides specific criteria for the classification of health and physical hazards, as well as the classification of mixtures.
• Labels: Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided.
• Safety Data Sheets: Will now have a specified 16-section format.
• Information and training: Employers are required to train workers on the new label elements and safety data sheet format to facilitate recognition and understanding.
  

Hazard classification under the revised HCS now provides specific criteria for classifying health and physical hazards and mixtures of chemicals. This new, detailed approach ensures that evaluations of hazardous effects are consistent across manufacturers and that labels and safety data sheets are more accurate as a result.

The revised HCS also mandates a standardized label format for all hazardous chemicals, which must include a harmonized signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS), previously called Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), are now required to follow a specified 16-section format. This standardized format provides a coherent and consistent approach to presenting important protection information.

To implement these changes, organizations should start by updating their inventory of chemicals. The revised hazard classification requires a reassessment of all chemicals in use, as their hazardous properties may have been reclassified, and their labels and safety data sheets updated.

Next, ensure that all hazardous chemicals have appropriate labels following the new guidelines. This includes the specific signal word, pictogram, hazard statement, and precautionary statement.

Transition from MSDS to the new SDS format, and ensure employees know how to read and understand these sheets. The new format is designed to be easier to use, but it’s crucial that employees are trained in understand these documents.

Importantly, training is key to the successful implementation of these revisions. Employees should be trained to understand the new label elements and safety data sheet format, enabling them to use this information to protect themselves and their co-workers.

Finally, revise your written hazard communication program. It must now include details of the new label elements and SDS, and the methods the employer will use to inform employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks and chemicals in unlabeled pipes.

In conclusion, understanding and implementing OSHA’s revised Hazard Communication Standard is not just a legal obligation but a crucial step in ensuring a safer working environment. The revisions aim to provide clearer, more consistent, and precise information about chemical hazards, empowering employees to make informed decisions about their safety in the workplace. By comprehending and implementing these changes effectively, organizations can significantly enhance their safety communication, reducing risks and fostering a culture of safety.

SafeRack is the recognized industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms, and related safety and fall protection products. To learn more about our products and how we can help keep your workplace safe, contact a member of our team today. 

The post Understanding and Implementing OSHA’s Revised Hazard Communication Standard appeared first on SafeRack.

Harnesses: Securing Workers during Chemical Loading Operations

Wearing harnesses during bulk railcar chemical loading helps protect workers from falls by distributing the impact of a fall across the body. Selecting comfortable, adjustable harnesses ensures proper fit and enhances worker safety during the loading process.

Lanyards: Maintaining Worker Stability During Chemical Loading:

Lanyards connect a worker’s harness to an anchor point or self-retracting lifeline, providing stability and preventing falls during chemical loading operations. Opt for shock-absorbing lanyards to minimize the impact of sudden stops and reduce the risk of injury.

Self-Retracting Lifelines: Offering Mobility and Safety during loading

Self-retracting lifelines extend and retract as workers move around the loading area, allowing freedom of movement while maintaining a secure connection. By locking in the event of a fall, SRLs prevent workers from falling further and enhance safety during railcar chemical loading.

Anchor Points: Providing a Secure Attachment for Fall Protection Equipment

Anchor points support the weight of a worker during a fall arrest, ensuring their safety during bulk railcar chemical loading operations. Regularly inspect anchor points to guarantee their strength and reliability, contributing to a safer work environment.

Guardrails: Creating a Barrier to Prevent Falls during Chemical Loading

Guardrails provide passive fall protection by creating a physical barrier around elevated work areas, preventing workers from accidentally falling during bulk railcar chemical loading. Durable, high-quality guardrails help maintain safety and reduce the risk of falls.

The post Ensuring Safety During Bulk Railcar Chemical Loading: The Role of Fall Protection appeared first on SafeRack.

First, the human element should never be underestimated. By investing in comprehensive fall protection systems, companies send a strong message to their employees: that their well-being is a top priority. This not only bolsters employee morale but also increases productivity. Workers who feel safe and valued are more likely to be engaged and productive, thereby increasing output and profitability.

Secondly, the financial repercussions of workplace accidents can be catastrophic. According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of a work-related injury, as of 2019, was $41,000, a figure that includes medical expenses, lost productivity, and other ancillary costs. Fall-related injuries can often surpass this average due to the severity and long-term consequences they bear. By investing in fall protection systems, companies can drastically reduce the incidence and impact of such costly mishaps, saving significant sums in the long run.

Moreover, insurance premiums are directly influenced by a company’s risk profile. Companies with robust safety measures in place, such as fall protection systems, are viewed more favorably by insurance providers. This can result in lower premiums, saving the company even more money over time.

From a legal perspective, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has stringent guidelines in place for fall protection in the workplace. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, reputational damage, and even business closure. Ensuring regulatory compliance by investing in fall protection systems helps companies avoid such punitive measures.

Investing in fall protection systems also offers ROI in the form of reputation enhancement. Customers, suppliers, and potential employees often judge companies based on their commitment to safety. By investing in safety, companies not only create a safer working environment but also foster a strong corporate image, which can lead to increased business opportunities and talent acquisition.

Finally, and most importantly, fall protection systems can save lives. The value of human life is immeasurable, and no cost should be spared to protect it. By preventing severe injuries or fatalities, companies safeguard the most valuable asset they have – their people.

In conclusion, the ROI of fall protection systems is multifaceted and significant. Whether it’s the enhanced productivity from secure and engaged workers, the avoidance of hefty non-compliance fines, or the inestimable value of preserving life, the payoff is undeniable. By understanding these benefits, businesses can view safety not as an expense, but as a long-term strategic investment that yields dividends in both human and financial terms. Safety doesn’t cost; it pays.

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What is a Rail Fastening System? 

Rail fastenings are devices that are used to secure running rails into baseplates or chairs or directly to sleepers, bearers, or other rail supports. They ensure that rails remain fastened to sleepers, bearers, or other rail supports and therefore play an integral role in railroad construction. 

A rail fastening system then is a method of fixing rails to railroad ties or sleepers. A typical rail fastening system includes rail anchors, rail tie plates, chairs, spikes, screws, bolts, and fasteners.

Rail Fastening Systems: A Brief History 

When most of us think of the earliest railways, we picture steam-based locomotives and the roles that they played throughout the Industrial Revolution. Yet rail systems have been in existence for several thousand years. The Post Track, a prehistoric causeway in the valley of the River Brue and the Somerset Levels in England, is one of the oldest known constructed trackways and dates back to 3838 BC. 

It was not until 1515 that wooden rails were adopted. The Reisszug, a railway located in Austria, featured wooden rails and a haulage rope that was operated by human or animal power using a treadwheel. Remnants of the 500-plus-year-old Reisszug still exist today. 

Early wooden rails were fixed to wooden sleepers using pegs or nails. The pegs or nails were inserted through holes in the rails. In the 18th century, cast iron rails came into use. Holes were made directly into the rails to allow them to be fixed to a support system. When stone block sleepers were used, nails were driven into a wooden block which was inserted into a recess in the stone block. It was not until the very end of the century that the first chair for a rail was used, attaching to the vertical web with bolts. 

In the 1830s, Robert L. Stevens invented a flanged “tee” rail. The rail had a flat bottom and required no chair. This became the standard in North America and was later used with tie plates. Other countries eventually adopted the flanged T rail, but differences in fastening methods remain. 

SafeRack’s railcar loading racks can fit any configuration, including curved tracks. This installation features 4 loading spot gangways for maximum efficiency.
–View Installation
–More on Railcar Gangways

Components of a Rail Fastening System 

Rail Chair

A rail chair consists of 2 jaws and a rail seat. It is installed between the rail sleeper and rails, fixed with screws, and locked with a steel key. The rail chair distributes the load from the rail to the sleepers to achieve uniform distribution. 

Rail chairs come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the type of rail and sleeper being used, as well as the specific requirements of the railway.

Rail Clip 

A rail clip helps to fasten steel rails to railway sleeps. The rail clip ensures a reliable connection, helps maintain the integrity of the track when temperature expands, and absorbs the shock produced by the train. Given the wide range of applications, there are many types of rail clips. Some of the most commonly used include E-type rail clips, SKL rail clips, and fast clip fasteners.

E-Type Rail Clip

An elastic rail fastening, or E-clip, is a spring-loaded clip that ensures permanent elastic clamping. The plates are mounted on the sleepers with 4 coach screws and double spring washers. The E-clip provides a secure grip on the rail while also allowing for movement and vibration. This helps to reduce stress on the rail and extend its lifespan.

SKL Rail Clip

SKL rail clips are tension clamps that ensure permanent elastic clamping to fasten turnout parts onto concrete bearers. The clamps fasten to baseplates that are mounted onto the concrete using screws and plastic dowels. 

Fast Clip

Fast clip fasteners are a newer type of rail fastening system. It is shoulder-free and bolt-free, has fewer spare parts, and features a compact structure. The base is pre-embedded when the sleeper is made, and the elastic clip is pressed against the rail by inserting it into the embedded base. 

Rail Ties or Sleepers

Railway ties or sleepers sit between two rail tracks to maintain the correct gauge. Early ties were made of wood, such as oak, karri, and jarrah. Wooden ties are still used but are only suitable for low-speed train lines. Some of the advantages of wooden ties or sleepers are that they are easy to manufacture and are naturally electrically insulated. 

Steel and concrete sleepers are more common. Steel sleepers can handle heavy loads and can be designed to suit a broad range of track specifications. Concrete is the lowest cost, requires less maintenance, and provides a longer service life. 

The tie plate, also referred to as a sole plate or base plate, is located between the railroad tie or sleeper and the steel rail. The tie plate is typically fixed to the sleeper by railroad spikes or rail bolts that are inserted through the holes in the plate. The main function of the tie plate is to distribute the load and hold the rail in a gauge. 

Rail Pad and Rail Insulator 

The rail pad is an elastic polyurethane mat that is placed between the rail and the sleeper. The pad protects the top of the sleeper from vibrations and wears while helping to distribute the load. 

Rail insulators, or rail nylon insulators, are used to modify rail gauges and electrically insulate rails, clips, and bolts from the interior of a concrete sleeper. The insulator serves the same function as a rail pad but is thicker. 

Spikes, Screws, and Bolts

Rail spikes are large nails with offset heads that are used to secure rails and base plates to sleepers in the track over the ballast. Rail spikes are essentially chisel-shaped with flat-edged points. The spikes are driven with the edge perpendicular to the grain, giving greater resistance to loosening. A dog spike is like a rail spike but features a pointed penetrating end, and the rail head has two lugs on each side that resembles a dog’s head. 

Chair Screws

Chairs screws, or coach screws, are large metal screws that are used to screw the baseplate or the rail directly into the sleeper. Chair screws cost more to manufacture than rail spikes but provide twice the fixing power and can be used in combination with spring washers. 

Fang Bolts

Fang bolts, or rail anchor bolts, are more effective than rail spikes and chair screws. They are more resistant to loosening due to vibrations. They fix rails or chairs to sleepers and are inserted through a hole in the sleeper with a fanged nut that bites into the lower surface of the sleeper. 

Rail Plastic Dowel

A rail plastic dowel, also referred to as a rail plastic sleeve or concrete insert, serves as the fastening foundation. It is pre-inserted into the concrete sleeper before assembling the rail fastening system parts. The dowel ensures a good connection between the rail fastening system and the concrete sleeper, as well as insulating the fastener parts from the ties. 

Spring Spikes

Spring spikes, or elastic rail spikes, is a two-pronged U-shaped staple-like spike that is bent to resemble an M. A spring spike holds a rail down to prevent tipping and secures the baseplate to the sleeper. They are commonly used with flat-bottomed rails, baseplates, and wooden sleepers. 

Railroad Safety 

Railroad fastening systems are critical components of safe railroad travel. They ensure that tracks remain fixed and that they can withstand significant vibration and heavy loads. But in addition to accidents associated with railway travel, hazardous spills from the loading and unloading of liquids also pose significant safety risks. 

Facilities are required to have spill-prevention procedures in place. The main form of spill prevention is railcar track pans, and SafeRack offers a complete range of railroad track pans and spill containment systems that are SPCC and EPA-compliant and safely capture hazardous spills from railcars. Our Polyethylene track pans and Metal railcar track pans are used globally to protect from accidental spills at railcar wash facilities, railroad tank car loading areas, and locomotive fueling stations.

SafeRack’s modular, galvanized steel fuel spill containment system for railroads. Simplifies the collection of incidental spills that occur during railroad fuel transfer operations.

–View Installation
–More on Spill Containment Systems

Moreover, workers tasked with climbing on top of tankers to load and unload potentially hazardous substances face substantial risks. SafeRack’s OSHA-compliant railcar gangways eliminate the need to climb on tankers and ensure that workers are protected from dangerous falls with safety cages that fit seamlessly over tanker hatches. 

Report an oil or chemical spill.
For emergencies and other sudden threats to public health, such as oil and/or chemical spills, radiation emergencies, and biological discharges, call the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. Learn more at epa.gov

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ANSI Z535.3-2022 and the Criteria for Safety Symbols

2022 marked the first time in over a decade that many of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z535 standards were reviewed and updated. The standards have expanded over the years and now encompass six individual standards.  These include:  

• ANSI Z535.1 – standard for safety colors.
• ANSI Z535.2 – standard for environmental and facility safety signs. 
• ANSI Z535.3 – criteria for safety symbols. 
• ANSI Z535.4 – standard for product safety signs and labels.
• ANSI Z535.5 – standard for safety tags and barricade tapes for temporary hazards. 
• ANSI Z535.6 – standard for product safety information in product manuals, instructions, and other collateral materials. 

ANSI Z535.3-2022 provides the criteria for the design, evaluation, and use of safety symbols to warn others of potential hazards. The primary objective of the standard is to promote the implementation of effective safety symbols while setting forth procedures to do so. But what exactly makes a safety symbol effective? 

ANSI Z535.3-2022: Effective vs. Ineffective Safety Symbols

The ANSI standard defines a safety symbol as a configuration that has an image with or without a surround shape that communicates a message without the use of text. Thus, image effectiveness depends on the selected symbol and how it is used. To ensure that symbols are universally understood, recognizable designs such as pictograms, glyphs, or pictorials must be used. And factors such as symmetry, direction, arrows, hand profiles, and even supplementary text must be considered. 

Text-only signs are not effective in societies with highly diverse populations like the U.S. Workers not only speak different languages, but they have a range of reading comprehension skills. Symbols convey important safety messages faster and are easily understood regardless of the recipient’s language or education. 

A Brief History of U.S. Safety Standards 

The publication of the 1914 Universal Safety Standards was one of the earliest attempts to standardize safety signage in the United States. At the time, serious and fatal injuries were commonplace in U.S. steel factories. As journalists increasingly focused on unsafe working conditions in factories, politicians felt some pressure to improve safety standards and visual communication in the workplace. These early signs were elementary, consisting of the word “Danger” written in white letters on a round red background – resembling a rounded modern stop sign. 

In addition to red danger signs, green boards with white letters were used to indicate the location of exits and first aid kits. About 25 years later, the ASA Z35.1 standards were published at the request of the War Department. They were subsequently revised in 1967 and 1968. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) relied on the ASA Z35.1 standards when drafting OSHA Section 1910.145, which governs the usage of safety signage. 

In 1979, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z53) Committee on Safety Colors was combined with the ANSI Z35 Committee on Safety Signs to form the ANSI Z535 Committee on Safety Signs and Colors. ANSI Z53 and Z35 were subsequently merged into the ANSI Z535 standard in 1991. 

The standards received some revisions in 2017 to make them more user-friendly, add additional definitions, make it consistent with Title 49 Section 172.407 of the Federal Code of Regulations, and incorporate several new annexes. These included, for example, Annex A, which clarified the color boundaries for safety yellow, and Annex B, which illustrated ANSI safety colors in relation to ISO safety colors. 

The standards received another round of revisions in 2022. Some of the most significant revisions included clarifications on how the Z535 standards can be combined with other applicable regulations, symbol design updates, and clarifications of confusing text and new foreign language translations. 

ANSI Z535.3-2022

ANSI Z535.3 lists the criteria for the design, evaluation, and use of safety symbols to warn others of potential hazards. The standard defines a safety symbol as an image, with or without a shape surrounding it, that communicates a message without the use of words. The reasoning is that symbols provide faster communication of safety messages than words and help convey messages across language barriers. Thus, the use of symbols provides a higher level of safety. 

While the inclusion of safety symbols is considered a best practice, their use is optional under the ANSI standards. ANSI Z535.3 safety symbols are classified into four types: 

• Hazard alerting. 
• Mandatory action.
• Prohibition.
• Information. 

Hazard Alerting Hazard-alerting symbols convey information that is related to the nature of a particular hazard. These symbols are drawn within a yellow triangle with a black ban.
Mandatory Action A mandatory action conveys that actions should be taken to avoid a potential hazard. The symbol consists of a white image within a blue circular surround shape if one is desired.
Prohibition  These symbols depict actions that should not be taken. Prohibition symbols feature a circular band with a diagonal slash running from the upper left to the lower right of the circle. The symbol includes a black image, a red band with a slash, and a white background.
Information  Information symbols convey a safe condition or fire safety message. A safe condition symbol features a white image within a safety green square or rectangular background if desired. A fire safety symbol consists of a white image within a red square or rectangular background, if desired.

SafeRack is the recognized industry leader in truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms, and related safety and fall protection products. To learn more about our products and how we can help to keep your workplace safe, contact a member of our team today. 

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Harvesting and processing agricultural products can be dangerous and processing sugar is no exception. SafeRack specializes in safety and access equipment to keep workers safe in agriculture, industrial, and commercial environments. In this article, we will not only answer questions about harvesting and processing sugar, but also outline some of the equipment used in processing, bulk loading and transporting.

Sugar

Most of us consume sugar daily. From natural sugars in fruits to sugar in our coffee and tea to candy and baked goods, sugar is a staple of our diets. All green plants produce sugar through photosynthesis, the process that plants use to transform sunlight into food. In addition to sugar, plants also produce glucose and fructose. Glucose and fructose are both monosaccharides, meaning that they are individual sugar units. A sugar molecule is made up of both glucose and fructose meaning that it is a disaccharide. 

While all three occur naturally in plants and are sweet, there are significant differences in how they are processed by the human body. The body immediately breaks down glucose to either store it or use it immediately for energy. Fructose is metabolised primarily in the liver and produces energy through a process called glycolysis. But unlike glucose, fructose can produce fat through lipogenesis. When sugar is consumed, the body separates the glucose and fructose molecules, which are individually metabolized. 

Processed foods, those that have been altered during preparation, have the most fructose. We can often see this on food labels as “added sugars” which are consistently linked to health issues. So, when it comes to producing sugar, farmers look for sources that contain the most sugar and the least amount of glucose and fructose. Sugar beets and sugarcane are the clear frontrunners in this regard.  

Sugar Beets vs Sugarcane

Most of the world’s sugar supply comes from sugarcane. According to the International Sugar Organization, sugarcane accounts for nearly 80% of global production. Sugarcane is a type of grass that is grown in tropical and subtropical areas.  The plant produces stalks that can grow upwards of 24 feet high. Sugar beets also account for a significant percentage of annual sugar production. In fact, some 60% of sugar produced in the U.S. comes from sugar beets. The highest-producing states are Minnesota, Idaho, and North Dakota.  

• Sugarcane grows above ground while sugar beets grow below ground.
• Sugar beets grow in temperate climates while sugarcane grows in tropical climates.
• Most sugar beets in the U.S. are GMO while sugarcane is mostly non-GMO.
• Sugarcane is processed with bone char to make it white, and sugar from sugar beets is naturally white.
• Sugarcane Molasses is the byproduct of sugarcane production and is used to make brown sugar. Sugar beet molasses with low sugar content is often used for animal feed.

Growing and Harvesting Sugarcane

Sugarcane is planted from stalk cuttings and takes approximately 1 year to reach maturity. The harvest season runs from mid-October through mid-March, providing 4 harvests from a single planting, Sugarcane can be harvested both manually and with equipment. Farmers typically use a single-row, combine-style harvester. The sugarcane is cut at the base of the stalk, placed into in-field wagons or hopper cars, and loaded into flatbed trailers for transport to the processing facility. 

Sugarcane Processing

At the processing facility, sugarcane is crushed, and the juice is heated and filtered. It is then crystallized to create raw sugar and centrifugated to remove the remaining juice. The final step involves extracting the remaining syrup which is referred to as cane mill molasses.

SafeRack’s 18′ stair tower installation at a sugar refinery in Northern California. Using ErectaStep’s in-stock modular stairs, it replaced a steep, unsafe set of stairs.

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— More on ErectaStep

Growing and Harvesting Sugar Beets

Unlike sugarcane, sugar beets start as seeds. They are planted 1 inch apart in rows and only take 90 to 95 days to reach maturity. Sugar beets are harvested from late September through October. Harvesters use a rotor beater to cut off the heads of the beets, which are left in the field. A beet loader then pulls the beets from the soil and places them into a truck which is driven to a processing plant. 

Processing Sugar Beets

Once the harvest arrives at the processing plant, they are placed on conveyor belts. The beets are transferred to a revolving drum and showered with water. Rocks and gravel are removed. The beets are washed in a beet washer which includes a magnet that removes metal fragments. The clean sugar beets are transferred to the slicers. They are cut into small pieces that resemble French fries. This process makes it easier for the sugar to be extracted. 

The sliced beets are placed in a large hot water tank and soaked to allow the sucrose to be extracted by osmosis. The resulting brown sugary pulp then enters a diffusion chamber to extract as much sugar as possible. The waste is used for animal feed or as a fertilizer. The juice then enters the purification process. Impurities are removed by adding milk of lime and carbon dioxide. The residual juice is put through another filtration process which produces a “thin juice” with a relatively low sugar content. To increase the content, it is then boiled leaving a “thick juice.” The “thick juice” goes through a crystallization process, is dried, and packaged. 

Sugar Processing Equipment

A facility may only do certain parts of the sugar processing, and then store some of the by-products at another facility.  This was the case with a recent SafeRack customer located in Florida. The customer would process the sugar beets and send the molasses off to another storage location to eventually be sent for further processing into animal feed.  

Transporting the product often requires the use of a railcar or truck tanker. This presents unique logistical and safety challenges that need to be considered. If moving liquids, there are generally pipes to carry the product from the processing locations to the storage tanks. From there, the liquid goes from the storage tanks to the truck tanker or rail cars. All of this is done without the possibility of harm to any operators. But that all changes at the point of transfer from the pipe to the transportation vehicle.

It’s at this point where the operator must access the top of the truck or railcar and connect the product hose or loading arm to the delivery vehicle.  That access is not an easy or inherently safe task and requires specialized equipment to ensure that the operator can safely access the valves, connect the pipe via a hose, hose reel, or railcar loading arm, and fill the vessel.  There are many types of equipment that can be used. But typically a common loading situation involves the use of stairs leading up to a platform. A gangway deploys from the platform to the top of the tanker or rail car. A safety cage adds another layer of safety for the operator.  The image below depicts a common single loading rack layout. NOTE: Where a safety cage is not used, one can find Self Retracting Lifelines (SRL) that are connected to an overhead tie-off point or track.

In some cases, operators may need additional protection which includes the possible use of railcar loader canopies for shade, or perhaps an air-conditioned building that sits on the platform.  Some operations require a longer platform if an operator needs to access multiple rail cars and not have to go up and down multiple sets of metal stair platforms.  There are all kinds of ways to make operators both safe and comfortable, you just need to make sure that you talk to an expert who can help guide you through the process and choose the best railcar loading systems for your operation. 

Before & After

SafeRack is your Trusted Partner helping you execute your transformative projects into highly efficient and safe loading and unloading operations.  Our unparalleled in-depth knowledge of the sugar processing industry covers:

• Waterway, road, or railcar loading and unloading
• Spill containment for pallets, trucks, rail cars & berms
• Grounding & overfill protection for truck & railcar
• Fall protection trolley beam & lifeline fall arrest systems
• Many other accessories

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What are Tanker Trucks? 

A tanker truck, or fuel truck, is a vehicle that is designed to carry liquids or gases on roadways. Tanker trucks have evolved greatly since Standard Oil started using them more than 100 years ago. Today, there are many different types of tanker trucks that vary greatly in size and their intended use. That being said, most tankers have a cylinder shape as it offers many benefits. The tank’s rounded corners do not require the level of reinforcement that a container with straight sides and corners does, making it more stable. Moreover, the design helps to prevent liquid surge and makes it easier to extract liquids, leaving less product in the tank and reducing contamination for the next load. 

In the U.S., large tanker trucks have capacities that range from 5,500 to 11,600 gallons. They are used to transport highly flammable substances such as gasoline, natural gas, and industrial chemicals. But they are also used to transport many different types of liquid goods such as molasses, milk, and wine. When transporting substances that are intended for human consumption, food grade or insulated tankers need to be used to keep products safe and sanitary during transport. Tanker trucks that utilize compartments can carry a variety of substances at once. 

Smaller tanker trucks typically have a capacity of fewer than 3,000 gallons and primarily transport liquid cargo within the community. For example, vacuum trucks are equipped with empty septic tanks to collect waste. 

Tanker Truck Loading and Unloading 

Tanker truck loading and unloading procedures can vary depending on the substances that are being transported. For instance, some chemicals require the use of pumps while others require compressors. There are, however, just two ways to load tanker trucks – top loading and bottom loading. Top loading involves attaching a hose to the manhole located on the top of the tanker. Bottom loading utilizes valves and fittings loaded underneath the tanker trailer. 

Of the two loading methods, bottom loading tends to be safer for fuel products. The reason is that top loading can agitate the fuel which can lead to both vapor and static buildup. This is especially dangerous since neither are visible and a single spark can produce a catastrophic explosion. Bottom loading, however, does not agitate fuel as much making it the preferred loading and unloading option. 

Tanker Truck Loading Procedures

Again, tanker truck loading procedures can vary depending on the nature of the substance(s) being transported. The following procedures apply to situations where inflammable bulk liquids are being loaded from storage tanks into tanker trucks. 

Before loading liquids into the tanker, it is important to do a thorough inspection. Ensure that all equipment is in working order and that there are no leaks. If you detect any odor stop what you are doing and try to identify and remedy the issue. Make sure that the trailer is the right one to transport that particular chemical. Check inside the tanker trailer compartments and make sure that they are empty to avoid contamination. If the chemical that you are transporting is hazardous, ensure that the trailer has all required labels. 

Once you have completed your preloading inspection, you can begin the loading process which consists of the following steps: 

1. Park the trailer in the designated loading area and ensure that the drop tube is positioned vertically into the tank as far down as possible to reduce agitation. 
2. Turn the engine off and ensure that all electrical devices are off to reduce the likelihood of sparks.
3. When filing, mixing, blending, or transferring flammable and/or combustible materials, it is crucial to utilize a truck grounding system. The truck ground system allows built-up static charges to flow into the ground to avoid a dangerous spark that could ignite the chemicals. 
4. If you are loading a compartmentalized tanker, check to see if all compartment valves are closed. The only compartment that should be open is the one that is being filled. The others should remain closed. 
5. If using a meter stop, set it to the desired amount to prevent overfilling and spills, leaving adequate room for thermal expansion. 
6. Open the loading valve to start the flow. When loading flammable or combustible chemicals it is important to start slowly – less than 120 gallons per minute for the first 6 inches of a compartment. Slow loading helps to minimize static buildup. Stay alert and remain near the truck until loading is complete. 
7. When loading is complete, close the loading valve. Leave the drop tube in the tank for several minutes to ensure that it is completely drained. Once empty, remove the drop tube and close the dome cover. 
8. If you are loading multiple compartments, follows these steps to load each one. 
9. Disconnect the truck grounding system. 
10. Conduct a post-loading inspection. Walk around the truck and ensure that all equipment has been disconnected and that there are no obstructions near the truck. Drive the truck away from the loading spot and report any issues to your supervisor in accordance with company policies and procedures. 

Tanker Truck Unloading Procedures

Like the loading process, tanker truck unloading procedures depend on the materials being transported. The following are some general steps for unloading bulk liquids into a storage tank. Note that it is up to the carrier to know all applicable procedures and requirements for a particular chemical.

1. Position the tanker in the designated unloading location.
2. Turn off the engine and all electrical equipment in the truck. 
3. Inspect the truck, tank, and unloading equipment. Ensure that there are no hazards or obstructions in the unloading area. 
4. Mark off a perimeter to ensure that no one accidentally enters the unloading area. 
5. Make sure that the storage tank contains the same substance that you are unloading and that the tank can accommodate all the materials that you are delivering. 
6. Connect the truck grounding system. 
7. Uncap the discharge connection and attach the unloading hose. 
8. Ensure that all receiving valves are closed. 
9. Attach the discharge hose to the correct receiving line and storage tank. 
10. If the chemicals you are unloading are prone to releasing vapor, utilize a vapor recovery system. 
11. Open the internal safety valves for no more than 2 of the tank compartments that are being unloaded.
12. Open the discharge valve slowly to ensure that there are no leaks. 
13. Remain alert and near the truck, constantly checking for leaks, overfills, and other potential issues throughout the unloading process. 
14. Close all the valves that were opened prior to unloading. Drain residual products from the hoses and fittings into the storage tank. Return them to the appropriate locations. 
15. Close all caps and manholes. 
16. Disconnect the truck grounding system.
17. Complete all required paperwork. 
18. Conduct a final inspection of the truck and unloading area to ensure that there are no obstructions or other issues. 
19. Remove the truck from the unloading area. 

Conclusion

Loading and unloading tanker trucks can be incredibly dangerous without the property equipment and safety solutions. SafeRack is the leading supplier of OSHA-compliant safety access solutions in North America. We offer many innovative solutions that can help keep workers safe and productive while loading and unloading tanker trucks. 

Workers typically need to climb on top of tanks to open a hatch or compressed air valve. Our tanker truck loading platforms with access gangways allow workers to safely and efficiently access the tops and bottoms of tankers. This eliminates the need to climb on top of tankers and significantly reduces the likelihood of slip and falls. Top loading arms and bottom loading arms offer fluid level sensors, vapor recovery, and grounding and metering. 

Our aluminum awnings and canopies are cost-effective solutions that keep workers and materials safe from the elements while loading and unloading truck tankers. SafeRack also offers truck grounding and monitoring systems and spill containment solutions. Our experienced engineers can fully integrate any solution into your existing application and processes. Contact our dedicated team today to learn more about our industry-leading safety solutions.

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Design Category (CSI Division): (05) Metals
Learning Hours: 1
Credits: AIA HSW/LU, RCEP PDH, AAA, AIBD CE, BOMI CPD, OAA, SAA
Delivery Format: Narrated Video

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Course Overview

Step It Up: Increased Efficiency with Prefabricated Modular Stairs, Access Systems, & Ramps

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