Custom Fall Protection Systems

Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade

Ajax, Ontario
Chemical & Industrial Energy Distribution
$250k–$1M
Approval Drawings Custom Fabrication Design & Engineering Installation Retrofit / Upgrade Safety System Integration Structural Reinforcement

Brenntag Canada undertook a comprehensive upgrade of an existing propane railcar unloading facility at their Ajax location. The project required full removal and replacement of an aging unloading system while maintaining safety, compliance, and operational efficiency within a highly constrained industrial site.

Challenge

The facility presented multiple engineering challenges, including limited working space due to dense piping infrastructure and deteriorating concrete foundations supporting the original platform.

Key Constraints

  • Restricted site footprint with limited access for construction and equipment
  • Existing piping networks limiting platform layout and stair geometry
  • Aging concrete support posts requiring reinforcement without full replacement
  • Budget sensitivity requiring cost-efficient engineering solutions

Risk

Mitigate fall hazards during elevated propane railcar unloading operations.

Workflow

Enable safe, efficient operator access within a compact, constrained unloading area.

Compliance

Meet regulatory requirements for fall protection and pressurized gas handling.

Custom Solution

Designed for safety, operational performance, and compliance.

Engineered Access & Structural Upgrades

2 key elements
  • Tiered stairway configuration with integrated mid-level landing for safe operator movement
  • Custom steel sleeves reinforcing existing concrete footings, preserving structural integrity

Equipment Supply & Integration

3 key elements
  • OPW Bullhorn liquid loading arms for propane transfer
  • OPW vapor recovery arms for controlled vapor management
  • Safe Harbor gangways and safety cages providing compliant top-access and fall protection

Key Deliverables

What was delivered end-to-end

Engineering & Planning

Site-specific engineering, access layout development, and structural detailing tailored to severe space and infrastructure constraints.

Installation

Complete demolition and installation executed within a confined operating environment while coordinating closely with existing site utilities.

Safety & Compliance

Fall protection, access systems, and transfer equipment installed to meet applicable propane handling and rail unloading safety standards.

Commissioning

Final system verification and turnover completed with all components integrated into a unified, ready-for-operation unloading facility.

Project Highlights

Key moments and system details from the installation.

Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
Reinforced steel platform foundations integrated with existing concrete footings to extend structural life and reduce replacement costs.
Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
New multi-level stairway and access platform designed to maximize operator safety within tight site constraints.
Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
Completed access structure positioned alongside active rail lines, coordinating safely with existing piping and transfer equipment.
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Installation of new structural components and piping connections during active facility operations.
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Precision lifting and placement of unloading arm assemblies using coordinated crane operations.
Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
Safe Harbor gangway installation providing controlled, compliant access to railcar domes.
Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
OPW liquid and vapor loading arms positioned for accurate alignment and spill-free connection.
Propane Railcar Unloading Facility Upgrade highlight image
Final access configuration showing integrated fall protection, gangways, and railcar interface points.

Partners & Vendors

Trusted partners who contributed to this project.

Safe Harbor
Novaflex
OPW
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