#explosion protected camera

Why Flame Proof Cameras Are a Game-Changer for Hazardous Zones

When working in high-risk industrial zones, visibility and safety must go hand in hand. Flame proof cameras are transforming how industries monitor dangerous environments.

Designed to withstand explosive atmospheres, these cameras prevent ignition risks while delivering crystal-clear surveillance. Whether it's monitoring pipelines, storage tanks, or chemical processing units, they ensure round-the-clock safety.

Their rugged design, combined with smart features like infrared vision and remote monitoring, allows businesses to maintain control even in extreme conditions. This reduces manual inspection risks and enhances overall productivity.

Industries today cannot afford outdated safety measures. Upgrading to reliable surveillance systems is not just a choice—it’s a necessity.

Discover cutting-edge Flame Proof Cameras for your facility.

👉 Continue Reading: https://www.sharpeagle.uk/blog/what-are-the-applications-and-benefits-of-flameproof-cameras

Oil and gas is a 6,585.54 billion dollar global industry, making it a huge contributor to the economy and employment of several countries, particularly the Middle East and GCC. These sites use several underground equipment spanning hundreds of miles, including pipes and underwater oil extraction technology. Oil and gas sites require round-the-clock monitoring with automated alerts in case of any mishaps for immediate attention and response.

Why is Video Surveillance so significant for Oil and Gas Businesses?

In the volatile environment of oil and gas sites, the smallest spark can lead to a huge explosion. Thus, these sites are prone to several hazards affecting human safety and the protection of assets. The reason behind this is the amount of mechanical-intensive work involved, the precariousness of the materials they extract from beneath the surface, and their storage in a safe and secure facility. 

Installing the latest surveillance systems has various benefits from a business standpoint. Firstly, these cameras, with integrations like IR and motion detection, provide added safety against theft and vandalism. Even from a manager’s standpoint, the cameras help him remotely monitor the crew operations, ensuring minimum lapses and increasing productivity. Furthermore, from a financial perspective, the cameras help detect any anomaly in operations, like potential equipment failure, so that it can be rectified before it causes a major accident at the site. In doing so, surveillance cameras insure companies from accidental costs and liabilities, thus promoting business growth. 

‍Key Advantages of Video Surveillance for the Oil and Gas Industry

‍• Safety monitoring

‍Video surveillance solutions protect the crew during risky processes involving dangerous tools and exposure to lethal chemicals, especially when working in confined spaces. Besides explosive materials and working in an atmosphere where fire and electricity may pose a threat to human lives, real-time visual monitoring can be a perfect tool to improve safety and keep a vigilant eye over unsafe activities. The constant security monitoring can boost the quick response time in unpredictable situations, while at the same time offering detailed visual feeds for the first responders, who would then be in a better position to take appropriate action with the best possible strategy. 

‍• Adherence to safety compliance

Another pertinent role that the video surveillance system plays, especially at the extraction points for gas and oil, is adhering to the government-provisioned code of conduct. Most industries consider OSHA as the ideal safety body and train their employees as per their specifications. This compliance prevents accidents and serves as a strong impetus for industries to keep their working environments up to that standard. Similarly, the adherence of workers to these standards make them compliant with safety measures, like avoiding entering a hazardous area unprotected.

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‍• Remote monitoring prevents unauthorised entry into the site

The video surveillance system creates new avenues for remotely observing industrial sites in many ways. Firstly, the system helps the safety team cut down the risk of unauthorised entry, either deliberately by an intruder or by an employee or lost visitor with low-level clearance, straying into a facility, such as an oil and gas plant. Secondly, security monitoring of critical areas such as oil wells, rigs and gas lines is extremely important. Although regular inspection of these sites is very important, project managers might want to consistently monitor or avoid multiple visits to such sites by using video surveillance to keep things in check. As per a report by Navigant Research, such advantages of video security monitoring is exactly what is transforming the oil and gas industry, as demand for such equipment continues to rise. The report also stated that as and when the oil and gas prices drop, management in these industries will try to explore new ways such as video surveillance to improve safety and operational efficiency. And it is possible that in the distant future, remote drilling using video security solutions might become a reality.

‍• Enhanced resiliency using mesh networking and wireless technology

‍Though the oil and gas surveillance system is helpful in the oil and gas industries, it can be further enhanced by using other technologies. For instance, by integrating mesh topology in security monitoring. Through this technology, multiple nodes in infrastructure are directly and non-hierarchically connected, allowing smooth flow of traffic. The use of mesh networking in combination with video surveillance can be extremely useful in huge drilling sites or at an expansive power plant, particularly when an incident of outage or emergency occurs. ‍ Similarly, wireless technology can also enhance video surveillance in certain circumstances. For example, wireless surveillance solutions such as IP-based cameras can be used to remotely observe offshore oil rigs. Their ease of deployment and flexibility can prove to be beneficial to the safety of workers, security, and general operational efficiency. ‍

• Infrastructure security

Benefits of video surveillance including intrusion detection of crew and hazardous objects in explosion-prone zones of the oil and gas industry. With its explosion-protection features, SharpEagle surveillance provides a complete security solution for on-shore and off-shore sites. Additionally, its integrations like smart detection and image analysis technology helps detect abnormal situations in the restricted zones remotely, protecting the human and equipment infrastructure in the industry.

‍Read More- 5 reasons that make Ex-proof CCTV surveillance is important in the oil and gas industry‍

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‍‍Best Practices for Video Surveillance in the Oil and Gas Industry

Investment in high-resolution cameras for entry and exit points: While low-resolution cameras still serve the purpose of surveillance, high-resolution cameras are used to carry out more advanced functions including facial recognition for authorised personnel and details about the equipment in explosive zones to provide an additional layer of security to the industry. 

Choosing explosion-proof cameras over traditional cameras for surveillance: As discussed before, even a single spark in an explosive environment can be fatal. To ensure minimum risk of explosions, crew fatalities, and equipment damage, opt for surveillance technology that avoids contact of any spark with the outside atmosphere and contains it within the housing of the wire.

Check for easy camera integration with process systems before investment: Through easy installation and integration, the managers and supervisors can carry out the operations seamlessly. For instance, integration of the temperature fluctuation alarm with the video surveillance system ensures that every time the temperature rises or drops beyond the optimum range, the warning alarm automatically activates the video footage of the zone, promoting immediate action in case of emergencies. 

Optimise surveillance with video analytics: Simultaneously monitoring 200 cameras at an oil and gas site can be challenging. As a result, the managers often miss out on the crucial details in the operations. Video analytics help in smart detection of any anomaly in the operations and prioritises that zone for surveillance, ensuring prompt and efficient deployment of resources and manpower. 

‍The Checklist for a Good Video Surveillance Solution for the Oil and Gas Industry

Ex-proof casing 

Good oil and gas video surveillance cameras are ex-proof and usually made of really durable materials like fiberglass, polyester, and stainless steel. The casing of such cameras protects the device from combustible gases, dust, and identical particles from entering inside it.

‍Ex-proof reinforced mounts 

Quality video surveillance cameras are mounted by brackets that are capable of holding five times the weight of the CCTV, preventing them from toppling over.

‍Closed-loop placing system 

Oil and gas sites can benefit greatly from explosion-proof cameras if they have smart closed-loop positioning systems, which are set to return to the same angle without delay, minimising blindspots and losing on critical moments during operations.

‍Viewing window made out of tempered glass 

To prevent the camera's viewing window from breaking under pressure, make sure that the viewing window of the ex-proof CCTV is made of tempered glass. Such glasses endure tremendous pressure of up to 10,000 pounds per square inch.

Easy Remote Access

An ideal ex-proof CCTV camera system allows the operators to monitor the worksite remotely through live video streams at any time. It also provides the option of archiving recordings for record-keeping, legal purposes, and future reference. 

Commercially Affordable

Instead of cutting initial costs and compromising product quality, an ideal explosion-proof CCTV camera will be commercially affordable after installation due to its maintenance costs — thus ensuring hassle-free operations in critical zones.

How SharpEagle Surveillance Cameras Protect the Oil and Gas Industry

SharpEagle’s range of explosion-proof cameras provide cost-effective surveillance solutions for the remotest oil and gas facilities. Our cameras assures: 

24/7 surveillance in harsh environments

Resistance to water, fog, dust, and glare

User-friendly solutions with smart integration

Remote surveillance and monitoring

Personnel protective equipment detection

Enhanced security with intrusion detection

Facial recognition with AI integration 

While security cameras have become common in a digitally savvy world of commerce and industry, the Explosion-proof security camera remains a mystery! What does the term explosion proof mean? Common sense indicates that the camera resists being blown up, but that is not the truth. What it means refers to the stainless steel casing that protects the camera from internal explosions that might be caused by sparks generated inside. Such a protective high-strength sealing can protect machinery and trucks too.

Hazardous environments require such safety measures.

Too many industries in the developed world contain a range of materials that can catch fire. Timber and industrial chemicals, farms, food production facilities, oil and gas works – they are all susceptible to explosions and fires that can do a lot of destruction. The flammable liquids and gases, dust, and vapor need to be monitored and controlled during processing. Somewhat similarly, the ordinary security cameras at the entrances and exits of buildings keep constant watch.

Major differences in camera construction

Compared to the glass and plastics seen on conventional cameras, the explosion-proof type has a very sturdy build. Steel or aluminum provides the casing to contain the dangers within and prevent sparks from escaping. The steel shell maybe 3.5 mm thick, and such strength can tolerate 1.5 x the pressure generated at the center of an explosion.

Corrosion-resistant stainless steel casing

Thermal controlled window

De-mister that removes the mist and vapor

A technical bonanza

High-range security cameras could have some similar features too. The built-in IP means that recorded videos may be viewed from any location over the internet. The explosion-proof camera offers high resolution along with high DSP (Digital Signal Processing). Super quality images and recorded videos indicate the advanced stage that software and digital technology have reached today. IR enables excellent recording even in low light. Extremes of outdoor temperature do not matter, whether the desert heat or arctic snow. Military establishments certainly need this illustrious device! It is perfect security that keeps out trespassers too.

Certifications back up the camera credentials

ATEX, IECEx, and UL 60079 are leading certifications that indicate the worthiness of the camera in hazardous conditions. Having undergone rigorous testing under such combustible conditions, these organizations have approved the company and brand of camera. Manufacturers gain confidence from such certification and can proceed without worries regarding installations in dangerous settings.

According to locations, some terms differ. In North America, National Electrical Code uses the term explosion-proof. The European Union and IECEx system, along with the ATEX directive, use the term flameproof.

What are the differences between:

explosion-protected camera

explosion proof camera

flameproof camera

Essentially, the three terms have quite similar meanings. The purpose remains the same of preventing a fire from being ignited. Similarly, firefighting equipment is commonly seen in marketplaces and apartment complexes. These cameras are somewhat different though the target of firefighting and prevention remains the same.

Get it clear as to how fire is caused. An explosive substance like a combustible vapor or powder requires a combustion supporting gas like oxygen. Further, will require an ignition source like sparks or flames. In industrial locations, explosive substances are perennially present along with oxygen. Though sparks or flame could originate from other sources, an explosion-proof camera is secure from producing sparks or flame with a powerful external casing. If a big explosion or fire does take place, the camera may not survive the onslaught.

Working amidst constant dangers

Driving on the roads is a common example of constant exposure to risks like in a 24-hour factory. Several hazards confront the driver and passengers, too, like accidents or burglary. Various precautions like the seatbelt and weapons help to alleviate such possibilities. The explosion-proof security camera serves such a preventive purpose by monitoring machines and work processes, workers, and physical security. Without active supervision, recording, and management, no work gets done well.

Protective helmets, gloves, appropriate clothing, specialized shoes, and instruments also help protect workers against injuries and scalding while working in industrial environments. The authorities set safety standards, and inspections verify if the guidelines are being followed. Penalties like fines may be the result otherwise.

Higher costs call for wiser investments.

Considering all the high-end features of these specialized cameras, it is obvious that they are costly compared to conventional CCTVs. Yet, a wide range of devices exists, and pricing depends upon the quality of materials used and the specific features they offer. Manufacturers constantly woo customers with better designs and appealing configurations while technology keeps advancing day and night. Nothing seems to be impossible as far as digital worlds are concerned. The pandemic has intensified the need and popularity of internet-enabled devices.

Budgeted investments ensure workplace safety.

Have all the hazardous work areas installed such monitoring devices? Certainly not, but they should be installing such safety equipment. Researched spending on camera systems according to need with appropriate locations would elevate confidence levels and result in a more productive workplace. Isn’t it hard to work well amidst dangers?

Large investments should be carefully researched and purchases made according to expert advice and recommendations from users. Internet reviews would help the process of selection of brands and models. Warranties offer safeguards against manufacturing defects. It would require very little maintenance for these very sturdy products.

Choice of camera models

Usually configured in the dome or bullet models, the PAN-TILT-ZOOM function serves the monitoring purpose well. Among the feature-rich models are dual camera versions that combine a conventional video camera with a thermal camera that detects heat and works in utter darkness. Incorporated AI recognizes dangers and raises alarms.

Consider the specific environments carefully and the purpose the cameras will fulfill. How extensive is the campus, and where are the dangerous areas to be monitored? How many cameras will be required, and at which locations? What would be the probable budget sanctioned?