Transforming Offshore HSE with AI-Driven Monitoring Systems

TL;DR:

  • Offshore drilling rigs demand comprehensive safety solutions involving all stakeholders.
  • Computer vision and AI systems are increasingly enhancing security and safety protocols.
  • AI-based monitoring systems pose challenges by requiring safety officers to adapt to new technologies.
  • This project streamlined occupational risk reporting on a Petronas contractor drilling rig in Southeast Asia using AI-generated dashboards.
  • AI engines analyzed real-time camera data to identify occupational risks based on basic risk factors (BRF).
  • The collaborative approach ensured practicality and familiarity in the report system.

Main AI News:

In the challenging and diverse environment of offshore drilling rigs, safeguarding the health, safety, and environment (HSE) of personnel is paramount. Achieving this objective necessitates comprehensive solutions that engage all stakeholders, align with existing rig culture, and adhere to established procedures. While this mission may seem daunting, it is far from unattainable.

The oil and gas industry has witnessed a surge in the adoption of computer vision-powered monitoring systems, predominantly for bolstering security measures. However, these systems have also been explored for enhancing safety protocols. Harnessing the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, these cutting-edge systems meticulously analyze data from an array of sensors and cameras, enabling real-time detection of potential hazards. Equipped with cameras and sensors capable of identifying gas leaks, temperature fluctuations, and other threats, they usher in a new era of safety protocols. Nonetheless, they also present fresh challenges for HSE teams.

While AI-based monitoring systems undeniably enhance worker safety, they bring about a conundrum for safety officers. In addition to their existing responsibilities, these professionals are required to acclimate to new technologies, leading to increased workloads and stress. It is imperative for organizations to meticulously weigh the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies and ensure their optimum utilization.

Project Overview: Revolutionizing Occupational Risk Management in Offshore Drilling

This initiative embarked on a mission to identify and report occupational risks primarily on one of Petronas’ contractor drilling rigs situated on an offshore platform. The goal was to streamline reporting and evaluation processes by introducing AI-generated dashboards, benefiting various teams involved in drilling operations.

Located in Southeast Asia, this rig accommodates approximately 70 staff members simultaneously. It boasts one fixed camera and eleven pan/tilt/zoom cameras strategically positioned to cover critical areas, including the fingerboard, casing board, below drill floor, drill floor, wireline, derrick levels, flowline, drawworks, crown, and shale shakers.

To execute this vision, an AI-driven platform was integrated into the rig, seamlessly connected to the array of cameras. AI engines were deployed to execute predefined models on each camera stream, extracting essential data relevant to occupational risks.

The risks were meticulously categorized in terms of basic risk factors (BRF) across various scenarios, a collaborative effort involving the health and safety team, the offshore installation manager, and other contractor team members. Their inputs were vital in aligning the risk assessment with the processes and operations specific to each area.

The methodology employed here involved real-time analysis of visual data captured by closed-circuit television cameras, empowered by computer vision. Moreover, a scenario-based AI engine was engineered, applying HSE logic based on BRF and predefined rules to generate conclusive data. This innovative approach culminated in the creation of a report system that resonated with end-users, ensuring both familiarity and practicality.

Conclusion:

The integration of AI-driven risk management on offshore drilling rigs is a significant leap forward in enhancing HSE protocols. While these systems bring undeniable benefits, they also necessitate careful consideration of the impact on existing procedures and personnel workloads. This innovative approach reflects a growing trend in the market, where AI technologies are transforming safety and efficiency in the oil and gas industry, offering opportunities for companies to stay ahead of the curve and ensure the well-being of their workforce.

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