This is a lot like mining, keep that in mind when looking this over. Think about how they are related. Generally, mining operations are in the middle of nowhere, just like most rigs and some refineries. Both need communications systems; both want to automate and monitor everything they can and both want solid safety solutions. 

I realize video is seriously underutilized. The idea that video could catch issues before they get out of control is something we need to look at. Safety issues specifically, but also for monitoring any of these rigs for security, weather, and failures. Sure, we can add sensors, vibration monitors, and listening devices, but video could make a difference in how we remotely monitor these things.

Think of oil rigs out on the water. They are very common and I know that many of them have microwave point-to-point networks connecting them. They also have become LTE hotspots to connect ships. It’s pretty amazing that oil rigs have become cell sites on the water. They use satellite connections as backhaul. Now that LEO is a thing again, think Starlink, we can improve their bandwidth even more. 

Don’t forget refineries. This is where they take the oil and gas to have it processed. These are huge campus-like compounds that cover a large area. When you work on these you have to take safety training prior to and possibly when you start. It takes time and your team will need to consider the extra day or 2 for training. I am saying this so when you build your quote you take training into consideration, after all, you have to pay your team even when they’re training. If you ask to opt out, you will lose the deal. The training is to keep your team safe and to cover the refinery’s ass. It is a requirement, not a request. No training, no work.

Now all we need to do is make sure each rig and refinery has a local wireless network to connect everything on it. Make sure you have a list of devices they can use and the life cycle for each device. It’s going to matter at the refinery because they will be there a very long time. While they do updates, you want to work around their schedule for upgrades. 

Let’s look at how we could help. 

1. Video for everything. Safety monitoring in real time. If someone steps across the line or into a danger zone, set an alarm in that area which could be a red light and a siren or bell. Also, alert the device to that individual so they know who is across the line. This tech is being developed but you have to find it. Also, video to monitor weather, problems, security, and so on. Remember that if you shoot the video offsite, say to a NOC where it can be archived, you can look back to see why something happened or someone got hurt. They have video for this today but if it’s shot off site then you can get an unbiased opinion after the fact. Maybe even catch a problem before it happens using AI to monitor daily actions. 
2. Monitor alarms, sensors, and anything that could cause issues. The sensors will be key to getting the systems safe and in control. Vibration sensors are out there and they can detect anomalies. It’s also good for collecting data. 
3. Remote control of the rig so that if something happens on the rig the NOC can do what it has to do to keep everyone safe. Also, the crew may need remote help to ensure 24/7 running of the rig.
4. Predictive maintenance through data collection and monitoring will help you correct problems before they happen. By using the data to see where something is starting to go bad you can control the downtime and perhaps replace something before you have an all-out failure. 
5. Remote maintenance support would help the crew repair things where the experts are remote or in the NOC. It would be a better use of resources to only dispatch the experts as you positively need them. They could see the problem before they arrive using video and looking over the sensors. Saves time and trips, lowering costs. 
6. Drones for inspection, repair, and safety. I think if you could remotely activate the drones in the docking station so that the remote team could use them without human intervention, it would make a lot of sense.
7. Safety monitoring, above I talked about video, but think beyond that. You can put sensors on people to monitor their health in real time. You can track people using geofencing so you know where they are at all times and if they’re in a danger zone without authorization. You can send them alerts or if they are down and hurt, you can alert others as soon as possible.  
8. Tracking of people as I mentioned above and also equipment. There are misplaced tools, equipment, parts, vehicles, and so on that if you could track it, then you could find it by looking at your tablet or smartphone.
9. Communication using an app or push-to-talk devices. This could also have an alert button on it so that they could push a panic button if they’re hurt or see a serious problem. Today they use a lot of 2-way radios and they work,but if they could consolidate their communications into one system, it may save them money. 

Remember that these offers may take some time to close. Chances are you will be working with a partner already connected to these businesses and that they can give you an education in how this sector works. They need communications more than anyone, it’s your job to offer them solutions, not just a network, but the applications I listed above to make their lives easier. Oh, and save them money through automation, predictive maintenance, data collection, and safety.

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• Who they can help:
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Update on next book! I am putting together a new book on Private Wireless Networks. Hopefully by the end of the month.