Active Fatigue and Distraction Detection devices for oil and gas
In the high-risk environment of the oil and gas industry, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of workers is paramount. One significant challenge that workers face is the risk of fatigue and distraction, which can compromise their ability to perform tasks safely and efficiently.
Within the industry, there is an increasing understanding of the importance of Active Fatigue and Distraction Detection (AFDD) devices in safeguarding both personnel and operations.
The IOGP’s recommendation of AFDD devices
Land transportation safety has been a key area of focus for the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) over the past two decades, following the alarming finding that vehicle-related incidents were responsible for more than 37% of all reported fatalities in the industry1.
This is unsurprising given the unique challenges faced by employees in this sector. Workers often drive long hours, which can lead to fatigue and distraction, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, many oil and gas operations are located in remote areas with challenging road conditions, including gravel roads, steep inclines, and potential for wildlife encounters. The transportation of flammable or toxic substances adds another layer of risk, as accidental leaks or spills can have severe consequences.
In 2005, the IOGP formed a subcommittee to specifically tackle the ongoing challenges associated with land transport safety and published its first edition of Report 365 – Land transportation safety practice (revised in August 2020). In this report, one of the recommendations put forward by the IOGP is the use of an Active Fatigue and Distraction Detection (AFDD) device to help protect drivers and enhance safety across oil and gas companies.
The importance of Active Fatigue and Distraction Detection devices
An AFDD device, is a technology that helps to keep drivers alert and focused while they’re on the road. It’s designed to detect signs of fatigue and distraction, like drowsiness or being unfocused, and alert and refocus the driver to prevent accidents.
This is incredibly important because fatigue is one of the biggest killers on roads, globally. When a driver is drowsy, or worse, has a microsleep, the risk of a fatal event increases significantly as they are simply unable to concentrate on the road ahead. In fact, external research shows that driver fatigue may be a contributory factor in up to 20% of motor vehicle crashes and up to 25% of fatal and serious accidents1.
Distracted driving is also serious problem with, among other things, drivers often attempting to multitask using mobile phones and communicating with others. An example of this risk was highlighted in the IOGP’s Fatal Incident and High Potential Event reports from 2023. In the incident, a driver lost control of his vehicle on a straight stretch of road while using his cell phone to access social media. A sudden hard brake caused the vehicle to skid and roll over, narrowly missing a tree2. Although the consequences in this case were minor, similar incidents often result in far more serious outcomes.
“If effectively used, Active Fatigue and Distraction Detection (AFDD) devices can be a strong engineering control (barrier/safeguard) to reduce human error.” IOPG3
Fatigue and distraction can also impact operational efficiency and productivity. Workers who are tired or unfocused are more prone to errors, delays, and reduced performance levels. This not only jeopardises safety but also affects the overall profitability of projects.
Improving Workplace Safety with AFDD devices
Furthermore, regulatory bodies and industry standards increasingly emphasise the importance of fatigue management in ensuring workplace safety. Companies in the oil and gas sector are under pressure to implement proactive measures to address fatigue-related risks and comply with regulatory requirements.
AFDD devices also serve as valuable tools for demonstrating compliance and fostering a culture of safety and responsibility within organisations. As the oil and gas industry continues to evolve, investing in AFDD solutions will remain crucial for maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
Seeing Machines works with global oil and gas companies to enhance fleet safety and operations with Guardian, our industry-leading AFDD technology.
References:
1 IOGP Safety performance indicators – Motor vehicle crash data – 2008-2023
2 Fatal Incident and High Potential Event reports – Land Transportation activity 2023
