POINTS
P
ipelines often run through hard-to-reach regions far from the normal
safety and security infrastructure, putting workers at increased risk
of vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, kidnappings, violent
attacks and other hazards. The remoteness of these worksites
and the scarcity of communication links dramatically curtail the ability of
management to supervise workers, enforce safety procedures and respond
promptly when an emergency situation arises. As a result, companies in the
pipeline industry are making substantial investments in risk mitigation using
technological solutions to track, monitor and communicate with workers
on the job and to develop response plans in the event of incidents or
emergencies.
M2M technology revolution
In recent years, the combination of ubiquitous GPS positioning, widespread
high-speed data connections, mobile apps and cloud-based platforms has
spawned a proliferation of wireless tracking and monitoring solutions. This
Jim Skillings, Vice President,
Commercial Products, DeLorme,
USA,
focuses on how satellite
communication technology can
provide safety and a security lifeline
for remote pipeline welders.
Figure 1.
The
inReach satellite
communicator
is ruggedized
for use in harsh
environments.
talking
Wireless
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