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Home / Industries / Bulk Chemical Loading / Sodium HypochloriteSodium Hypochlorite (NaCIO) Handling Design, Loading, and Installation.
Although no two Sodium Hypochlorite Loading solutions will be identical, the product itself determines much of the critical design criteria that will ensure that optimum safety and productivity can work together in harmony.
Sodium Hypochlorite, also referred to as bleach, is a strong liquid oxidizing agent with a greenish or yellowish hue, smells like chlorine, and is most frequently used as a disinfecting agent. Sodium Hypochlorite is a broad-spectrum disinfectant that is used to kill viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mycobacterium.
While bleach or sodium hypochlorite can be hazardous, when used properly, it can make the world a much healthier place. A short list of some of the common uses includes bleaching, disinfection, deodorizing, stain remover, and water treatment.
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View Full TextIn the United States, Sodium Hypochlorite is a “tight-fill” (closed-loop) loading operation and is loaded into rail cars via 3” PTFE lined chemical hoses.
Sodium Hypochlorite, if not handled properly can cause serious injuries and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required. Additionally, because operators are on top of the vehicles during the loading process, fall prevention is essential, not only for safety but increases throughput.
Sodium Hypochlorite is typically shipped in DOT-105 non-insulated tank cars with safety valves that meet the DOT specification for the transportation of Sodium Hypochlorite and other like commodities. The rails cars themselves are ~ 9′ outside diameter with an overall length of ~45’ to 60′, with a 6’ x 6’ center opening or off-set opening crash box.
Typical Sodium Hypochlorite Loading Platform
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Below are some of the loading and unloading solutions for illustrative purposes only. Our experts will work with you and your team for a custom solution to suit your needs.Sodium Hypochlorite Loading Arms
Sodium Hypochlorite is typically loaded into railcars or tank trucks via boom supported by-pass arms or PTFE lined chemical hoses with a flange connection. The arm or hose will have a top inlet with a control valve to ensure that it is self-draining after use and is supported along the length of a mechanical loading arm to improve handling; this is known as a by-pass arm. You can install one liquid and one vapor arm, or mount both the liquid and vapor hoses on one by-pass arm. For unloading, typically you would use a 3” chemical hose with flanged ends with EPDM, Kalrez, PTFE or Viton seals. Purge lines can be fitted to the arm, for nitrogen purging. Note: unloading hoses must be pressure tested annually to ensure their integrity, and this is a contributing factor to rigid loading arms being more viable over the longer term.
Sodium Hypochlorite Gangways and Safety Cages
A wider access gangway (48″-60″ is preferable) as it helps improve access and egress to and from the vessel. In addition, a wider gangway will reduce the risk of the operator’s PPE getting caught, torn or damaged, and will improve productivity and safety. Powered gangway solutions are also an option, with both hydraulic and pneumatic solutions being commonly used. Each gangway will be fitted with a two-rail safety cage for the railcar crash box. This will be a centered 6’x6’ safety cage to sit directly over the cashbox. This will provide a safe, secure work environment for your operator when connected to their breathing apparatus.
GX SELF-ADJUSTING STAIR (SAS) GANGWAY
SafeRack’s NEW GX SAS gangways use Retractalok power-assist technology allowing operators to raise or lower effortlessly, light as a feather to lift, solid as a rock. Tested in the most critical applications, this revolutionary new gangway outperforms all others. Available in multiple lengths and widths. Learn More
GX FLAT RAMP ACCESS (FRT) GANGWAY
SafeRack’s NEW GX-FRT is a flat ramp model popular with railcars. It features a slip-resistant walk surface and, with the use of the telescoping extension, eliminates gaps on narrow railcars. Learn More
Sodium Hypochlorite Eye Wash/Drench Showers
ANSI guidelines state that an Eye Wash/Drench Showers need to be located 10 seconds or 55’ (16.8m) from contaminants or hazardous materials. Eyewash stations need to be on the same horizontal plane with no obstructions.
Therefore, we would propose the installation of a standard combination Drench Shower/Eyewash Unit, which will save limited space and fit easily into any work environment.
Sodium Hypochlorite Spill Containment
Spill containment pans will be provided at the point of loading operations and is an essential piece of equipment in overall site safety and environmental protection. SafeRack recommends a minimum 20’ long galvanized, polyethylene or composite track pan to mitigate spills. Sodium Hypochlorite Grounding
Sodium Hypochlorite is not flammable, but it is a strong oxidizer, which enhances the combustion of other materials, Therefore, industry best practice includes the grounding of all vessels before starting the (un)loading process. - Vehicle grounding and bonding — ensure true grounding before product flow is permitted
- Explosion-proof enclosures — meet or exceed UL, CSA and Ex requirements
Sodium Hypochlorite Safety Gates
Safety Gates will be installed at the top of stairs and any other openings to ensure operator safety at all times. YellowGate Safety Gates
SafeRack’s line of industrial safety gates is the most flexible product on the market with the ability span openings between 16” and 36” and is field adjustable with nothing more than a wrench. Learn More
Sodium Hypochlorite Options
- Lighting – Lighting both over and under the platform will be provided. For overcast days or second shift, lighting is essential for improved safety and improved productivity.
- Platform & Canopies – Full platform canopies reduce exposure to the elements and improve the safe and productive loading operation from the operator’s perspective.
- Operator Shelter – Depending on your site requirements, consideration should be given to the requirement of an operator or guard building on the loading platform. This can be customized to meet specific site requirements
- Wheel Chocks – Railcar Wheel Chocks provide fast blocking of all types of railcars and meet OSHA regulations to safely prevent railroad cars from moving during loading or unloading operations. This is a requirement by the Department of Homeland Security
Personal Protective Equipment PPE Requirements
Eye/Face Protection: Wear chemical safety goggles. A face shield (with safety goggles) may also be necessary.
Skin Protection: Wear chemical protective clothing e.g. gloves, aprons, boots. Coveralls or long sleeve shirts and pants in some operations. Wear a chemical protective, full-body encapsulating suit, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Suitable materials include: butyl rubber, neoprene rubber, Viton®, Viton®/butyl rubber, Barrier® – PE/PA/PE, Silver Shield® – PE/EVAL/PE, Trellchem® HPS, Trellchem® VPS, Saranex®™, Tychem® BR/LV, Tychem® Responder® CSM, Tychem® TK. The following materials should NOT be used: natural rubber, polyvinyl chloride. Recommendations are NOT valid for very thin neoprene rubber gloves (0.3 mm or less).
Respiratory Protection: Up to 5 ppm:
(APF = 10) Any chemical cartridge respirator with cartridge(s) providing protection against Benzene*; or Any supplied-air respirator*.
*Reported to cause eye irritation or damage; may require eye protection.
APF = Assigned Protection Factor
Recommendations apply only to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved respirators. Refer to the NIOSH pocket guide to chemical hazards for more information.
* For illustrative purposes only. Our experts will work with you and your team for a custom solution to suit your needs Customer Reviews
4 5Excellent product and service, as expected.Excellent product and service, as expected. Ease of installation and operation, proven durability and reliable customer service are a few reason SafeRack is becoming the “norm” on this site for various applications, from loading platforms to fixed platforms. Responsive service before, during, and after the sale.
The main reason for this purchase was to improve the safety, ergonomics, and reliability of this loading station, which is probably the most used on the site. The existing platform was purchased / installed by a competitor, who has not been responsive to inquiries regarding assistance and advise for service and parts. After several attempts with limited useful response or support, I chose to do the right thing and upgrade to a SafeRack system, with confidence.
By Tim Osborne from Solvay USA Inc. on 5/21/144 5SafeRack is our sole provider of railcar pans.Phyllis was, and always has been, very easy to work with and makes ordering your products a real pleasure. Cost, quality, and reliability will definitely make SafeRack our sole provider of railcar pans.
By Jeff Hughes from A&B Welding on 5/7/134 5The product is real quality.The whole experience with SafeRack was great. Dana Harbuck was friendly and quick to respond. Your company seems to know their products and industry. The product is real quality. I’m hoping they last us a long time.
By Patrick Walker from Jupiter Sulphur LLC on 2/14/124 5Our customers request SafeRack by name.Our first experience with SafeRack was very satisfying. Our sales rep, Amber Graham, provided fast, informed responses that we needed to make the sale of these units possible. The products shipped on time, well packed and in great shape. Our customers request SafeRack by name because of the flexibility in options they present and the versatility of the units. Aside from the units themselves, we find the customer support, realistic delivery times and the backing of an established, reliable brand to be key benefits.
By Mauricio Madrid from Eymaq, Inc. on 6/12/145 5Existing parts that we had is worn that need changed.The sales team at SafeRack was very helpful and responsive.
By Carmelito Lao from Lafarge C/O Financial Services Center on 8/5/194 5The product is a very good safety feature and works best for our needs.David Daniel was very helpful and knowledgable. The product is a very good safety feature and works best for our needs.
By James Gentry from Ascend Performance Materials on 8/10/11MAJOR SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE PRODUCERS WHERE WE HAVE SUCCESSFULLY EXECUTED SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE LOADING PROJECTS
SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE 101
Things to know about Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium Hypochlorite is regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and is classified as a corrosive liquid with the DOT identification number UN 1791.
Sodium Hypochlorite is typically bulk transported at 20% or 100% concentration and then diluted down for specific applications. Household bleach is formulated anywhere from 3 to 8 percent. While industrial-strength bleaches used in hospitals, public or private pools, and restaurants are formulated in the 10 to 12 percent range. Regardless of the concentration, serious damage can occur from prolonged exposure to sodium hypochlorite or by accidental contact with skin, eyes, or ingestion.
Do not breathe gas or vapors. Exposure to gases may cause burning of the eyes, nose, and throat; cough, as well as constriction to the airway and lungs, can occur. Use only in well ventilated areas with proper respiratory protection. Do not get liquid or vapor in eyes, skin, or clothing. Safety showers and eyewash stations should be immediately available.
Best practice loading/unloading includes wearing chemical-resistant clothing, gloves, splash goggles, and respirator at all times to protect eyes, lungs, and skin.
In the event of a leak or spill evacuate all personnel to a safe area. Remove all sources of ignition. Eliminate heat and ignition sources such as sparks, open flames, hot surfaces, and static discharge. Post “No Smoking” signs. In the event of a fire, use dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or foam as extinguishing agents.
Only properly trained and equipped personnel should be permitted to unload tank trucks or liquid railcar. Operators should wear an approved respiratory protective device, and impervious clothing, footwear, gloves, and goggles.
OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) @ 1 ppm in an 8 hour day.
Sodium Hypochlorite may react violently with strong acids. Other incompatibilities include strong caustics, ammonia, urea, reducing agents, and oxidizable materials.
Never mix bleach with acidic toilet bowl cleaners or ammonia products because this can result in deadly toxic chloramine fumes and vapors.
Is your plant or facility compliant with ANSI, OSHA, and local safety codes? We can help!
EMERGENCY EYEWASHES / SHOWER EQUIPMENT AND THE ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 – 2014 STANDARD
Following eye contact, you must start washing with water immediately to prevent permanent damage. In the event of skin contact, you must start washing with water immediately to prevent slow-healing chemical burns.
Are you aware that ANSI guidelines state that Eye Wash/Drench Showers need to be located 10 seconds or 55′ from contaminates or hazardous materials and located on the same horizontal plane, with no obstructions? If bottom loading/unloading, an additional shower should be located at grade as well. SafeRack provides the above equipment plus much more needed to keep employees safe and expedite bulk chemical loading and unloading.
OSHA Regulation Experts – Does your existing chemical safety equipment or chemical loading systems meet OSHA’s latest requirements? SafeRack’s professional technical sales consultants are available to meet with your team to make recommendations to keep your facility in front of OSHA’s ever-changing country and region-specific standards and regulations, including lifeline and trolley beam fall arrest systems, metal stairs, and access platforms.
Why SafeRack?
The SafeRack approach is a collaborative one. Let’s call it The SafeRack Way. We have, over many years amassed a great deal of experience and understanding of the safety aspects involved in loading road tankers and railcars, as well as the behavioral habits of the operators.
Experts In Chemical Loading
- Acrylonitile
- Aluminum Sulfate
- Ammonia
- Ammonium Nitrate
- Aniline
- Benzene
- Butadiene
- Caustic
- Chlorine
- DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)
- Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid
- Ethanol
- Ethyl Chloride
- Ethylene
- Ferrous Chloride
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- MDI
- Methanol
- Methyl Ethyl Ketone
- Molten Sulphur
- Nitric Acid
- Oleum
- Phenol
- Polypropylene
- Renewable Diesel
- Sodium Hypochlorite
- Sulfuric Acid
- Sulfur Dioxide
- Titanium Tetrachloride
- Toluene
- Turpenitne
- UAN (Urea Ammonium Nitrate)
- UREA
- Vinyl Chloride
- Xylene
- Agro-Chemical
- Specialty Chemical
- Petrochemical
North America’s largest loading terminal
World-leading designer, manufacturer, and installer of truck and railcar loading platforms
As one of the primary railcar loading points, Hardisty is one of the major crude oil hubs in North America and a major origination point of pipelines that export to the United States. SCS was asked to supply and construct a SafeRack crude oil loadout terminal spanning nearly half a mile. The USD Hardisty terminal can load up to two 120-railcar unit trains per day and consists of a fixed loading rack with 62 railcar loading positions enclosed, separate control, operator and mechanical buildings, as well as a unit train staging area and loop tracks capable of holding multiple unit trains simultaneously. SCS also supplied and installed boom-supported loading arms with supply and vapor management systems.


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