Despite how important they are to keeping the world as we know it functioning, oil and gas facilities and infrastructure can be highly vulnerable. This is because they are located by necessity in remote locations that are far from emergency services. If, for example, one of these sites becomes the target of vandals or is hit by a natural disaster, it could be a long time before anyone notices. The results could be catastrophic, with service interruptions at best, and long-term ecological disaster or risk to human life at worst. That’s to say nothing of the economic impact to the property’s owners. This is why it is critical for these locations to feature robust oil and gas security systems, especially those that feature cameras. By keeping a watchful eye on these sites 24/7, this equipment makes it easier to respond to crises as quickly as possible to avoid catastrophes.
Features of the Ideal Oil and Gas Security System
Because oil and gas sites are so often isolated from the rest of civilization, they can be hard to outfit using traditional camera systems. There may not be available power in all areas, weather conditions can be challenging and there may not be a good place to keep the servers for storing footage. That’s why the ideal video surveillance for these areas should have:
- Solar power: Using solar power means cameras can be placed virtually anywhere without the need for a connection to the grid.
- Mobile Internet capability: With the ability to connect to the Internet over cellular networks, these systems can function without a wired uplink, enhancing their flexibility.
- Cloud storage: Uploading video and images to the cloud means they can be accessed no matter where you are, and you won’t need dedicated server space.
- Remote monitoring: Allowing workers to monitor the feed remotely means they don’t have to put themselves at risk in unsafe locations.
- Hardened housings: Rugged construction ensures these cameras can operate even in extreme weather conditions.
- Constant updates: Having cameras always connected to the Internet means software will always be up to date.
- Sophisticated analytics: Being able to search through archived data quickly and easily is important.
- HD video quality: High-resolution images and video make identifying criminals or spotting problems during bad weather easier.
How Video Surveillance Protects Oil and Gas Sites
Being able to watch over remote locations at all times helps protect these sensitive sites from a wide range of threats, including:
- Theft and vandalism: Having video evidence or photos of perpetrators results in a higher chance of capturing and convicting them. The presence of the cameras themselves also serves as an effective deterrent.
- Equipment malfunctions: Spotting signs of trouble right away can make it possible to mitigate the damage before it becomes too costly to fix.
- Human error or safety issues: Video surveillance allows supervisors to spot and call out unsafe or improper procedures almost immediately to keep the site safe and productive.
- Sabotage or terrorism: The energy industry is a prime target for nefarious agents who want to disrupt vital services. The presence of cameras on-site means they can be stopped or caught.
Trust Eye Trax
As a leading provider of solar-powered, cloud-enabled security camera systems, Eye Trax has a wide range of solutions for keeping oil and gas properties safe and secure. Our equipment is designed and built to protect facilities and assets in some of the most remote and inhospitable parts of the world, making them perfect for the energy sector’s needs. To learn more about what we do and how it can help you, get in touch with one of our representatives today.