Mobile access platforms offer several advantages, including increased safety, efficiency, and productivity compared to traditional methods such as ladders or scaffolding.
They allow workers to access elevated areas safely and provide a stable and secure platform for performing tasks at height. Our TopTank and LowTank are mobile access ladders, designed to offer road tanker access when fixed gantries are not available.
When a fixed gantry is not available, these platforms give operators a stable, guarded work area that moves to where the job is. They improve safety, speed and productivity for tanker loading, inspection and sampling. Below we answer the most common questions on choosing, setting up and using them, including height adjustment, safety features, ground conditions and compatibility with loading arms and vapour recovery.
Firstly, mobile access platforms provide operators with a stable, guarded working area at height. In addition, you can use them when fixed gantries are not available or when you require access in multiple locations. As a result, they improve safety, speed, and productivity compared with ladders or improvised methods.
Firstly, TopTank provides safe access to the top of road tankers and many other vehicles for inspections, sampling, and maintenance. Meanwhile, LowTank suits lower working heights such as ISO tanks or side access tasks. Finally, both serve as mobile access platforms that deliver guarded access when a permanent gantry is not practical.
Yes, when you use them correctly, mobile access platforms provide collective protection with guardrails and a stable deck, so they help you comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005. However, you must still carry out a site risk assessment.
Yes, many mobile access platforms adjust in height to match different tanker and trailer profiles. The adjustment range depends on the model, however we will recommend the best option after carrying out a quick site check.
In most cases, yes. A single operator can easily manoeuvre mobile access platforms. The operator secures the unit with parking brakes or wheel locks once in position. For longer moves, the operator can use tow handles or tugs if the site allows.
Mobile access platforms typically include full-height guardrails, a gated entry, non-slip decking, and positive braking or locking. Manufacturers can also provide options such as lighting, anti-static bonding points, and safety signage.
No, these platforms provide safe access onto the top of a vehicle for manway opening, sampling, equipment inspection, and servicing. If you need to load or unload a tanker, you must use a fixed access platform. We will advise you on the best option for fixed platforms.
Provide a level, firm surface with enough space to approach the tanker straight on and lock the platform in place. If your yard has gradients or uneven surfaces, we will specify suitable wheel types and stabilisation for the mobile access platforms.
Yes, manufacturers build them for industrial outdoor use. For exposed sites, we can recommend non-slip tread patterns, drainage details, and maintenance routines that keep operation safe in wet or freezing conditions.
Treat mobile access platforms as equipment for work at height. Carry out pre-use checks, schedule periodic inspections, and follow a simple maintenance plan that covers fasteners, brakes, wheels, and deck condition. We can supply a checklist and service schedule, or we can provide an annual service and inspection for you.
Yes. We offer platforms in a variety of cage sizes tailored to your specific site and tanker requirements. These include cages for ISO tanks, general-purpose or chemical barrels, and petroleum tankers.
Lead times vary by configuration and workload. We confirm current build times at the quote stage and arrange delivery and commissioning to minimise downtime for your mobile access platforms.
