Irish Chemical Manufacturer Increases Site Capacity With New Tanker Loading Bay

Summary

IFC Inflow was called to assist an Irish chemical manufacturer and distributor in Shannon, Republic of Ireland. The customer was installing a new chemical tanker loading bay and needed to ensure the highest safety standards for workers accessing the tops of tankers during loading operations. Our team provided a bespoke tanker fall prevention system, incorporating tanker access solutions, safety cages, and liquid loading arms to enhance both safety and efficiency.

Challenges

Two key challenges needed to be addressed in this project:

1. Unique Gantry Orientation – Typically, workers using IFC Inflow’s safe access systems approach tankers from the side. However, the existing platform spanned the width of the roadway, requiring access from above and parallel to the tanker.
2. Platform Height Difference – The customer’s gantry stood 5 metres high, while the tankers were only 3.6 metres, creating a significant height gap. The tanker access solution needed to safely bridge this difference.

Additionally, the loading arms had to be suitable for handling highly corrosive chemicals and designed to reach the tanker’s manway despite the large distance from the platform.

Solution

✅ Custom Safety Cages & Folding Stairs – We designed tailor-made safety cages fitting along the length of the tanker rather than the usual side access. A 5-step FlowStep Folding Stair system was installed, but to fully close the height gap, we engineered custom ladder rungs extending from the bottom of the folding stairs for safe and complete access to the tanker top.

✅ Specialised Loading Arms – The loading arms were constructed from stainless steel to withstand corrosive chemicals. They were equipped with:

• Special vapour cones for fume containment
• Vapour return hoses for environmental safety
• Overfill prevention sensors for spill risk mitigation
• Spring balancing for effortless operation

Results

• The customer successfully installed the equipment following IFC Inflow’s design, consultation, and delivery.
• The new tanker loading bay is now operational, safer, and more efficient.
• Workers can access tankers securely, reducing fall risks and improving compliance with safety regulations.
• The company has enhanced loading capabilities, ensuring a more productive and risk-free operation.

By adapting our solutions to the unique site requirements, IFC Inflow delivered a bespoke, high-safety solution that meets both operational and regulatory needs.