In the oil and gas sector, every operation comes with real risks: flammable substances, heavy machinery, work at heights, and extreme working conditions. Ensuring that operations run smoothly is not enough. Above all, it’s essential to guarantee the safety of the workers on the front lines every day.
This is where Aeon Security technologies step in. With remote monitoring, AI-powered video analytics, intelligent sensors, and geo-fencing systems, Aeon protects people, assets, and operations. All of this happens in real time, identifying potential risks and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed.
But how does this protection work in practice? In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the challenges of the oil and gas sector and how Aeon turns technology into safety for both workers and operations.
Overview of the Oil and Gas sector
The oil and gas industry is one of the pillars of the global economy, supporting much of our daily routine. It is divided into three main stages:
- Upstream: exploration and production on platforms, wells, and drilling operations.
- Midstream: transportation and storage via pipelines.
- Downstream: refining and distribution to the end consumer.
In the United States, for example, the industry accounts for nearly 55% of total energy consumption, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Behind this economic weight, however, lies the daily routine of thousands of workers exposed to high-risk environments.
Challenges with worker and operational safety in the oil and gas sector
In a critical environment like oil and gas, even minor failures can have serious consequences for people, operations, and the environment.
Common risks include:
- Explosions and fires, often caused by gas leaks or electrical failures;
- Chemical exposure, which can cause intoxication, occupational diseases, or even fatal risks;
- Vehicle accidents;
- Failures in critical equipment, such as valves, pumps, and containment systems;
- Falls from height, common on platforms and drilling towers;
- Confined spaces, with risks of suffocation or accumulation of toxic gases or vapors.
In the United States, the mortality rate in oil and gas extraction is seven times higher than the national average (CFOI – Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries). In such a challenging scenario, strict safety measures are essential to ensure workers return home safely and operations continue without interruption.
Preventive maintenance in O&G
Preventive maintenance is one of the most effective ways to protect both workers and operations. This process involves regular equipment inspections, process monitoring, and constant oversight of team behavior in the field.
Today, video analytics systems allow real-time monitoring of both machinery and employees, identifying failures, irregularities, and even the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Small inconsistencies can be corrected before they turn into serious incidents.
Beyond operational aspects, there are also strict legal requirements. The oil and gas industry must comply with standards such as OSHA, which defines and enforces occupational health and safety regulations in the United States, and IEC 62443, the international standard for cybersecurity in industrial systems.
Aeon aligns with these requirements, helping companies adapt processes and reduce risks of penalties or legal interruptions, through advanced prevention and monitoring technologies.
How Aeon Security protects workers in this industry
Aeon combines cutting-edge technology with rigorous risk management protocols to reduce accidents and maintain safe operations. Some of the applied solutions include:
- Remote Monitoring: cameras, AI-powered video analytics, and intelligent sensors track employee behavior and location in real time, identifying risks such as missing PPE, falls, or unauthorized access to restricted areas.
- Geo-Fencing: creates virtual safety zones, ensuring that only trained and certified workers can access hazardous production areas.
- Access Control: reinforced with physical barriers, facial recognition terminals, and cameras to allow only authorized personnel into critical areas.
- Thermographic Cameras: continuously monitor field operations, detecting smoke, fire hotspots, or other anomalies that could pose immediate risks to workers.
Conclusion
With integrated solutions and cutting-edge technology, Aeon Security not only ensures compliance with strict regulations but also creates a safer working environment where every employee can perform their duties with confidence and protection.
All Aeon Security solutions and products are offered in partnership with global leaders such as Axis Communications, Genetec, and Luna. For more information, contact: sales@aeon-security.com