Accent Systems has developed for Tecnalia and Petronor a bracelet to enhance personal security in refineries. It features a system that controls access to confined spaces, detecting if the area is free of toxic gases and if the worker has access to the zone.

It’s a pleasure to talk with José Maria Cabero, Project Manager at Tecnalia Research & Innovation.

Understanding the Personal Security System

Can you describe the personal security system developed with Accent Systems? How does it work?

We have developed a safety system for remote monitoring of workers in industrial plants (still in the phase of industrialization).

The system is based on a three-tier architecture: workers carry wearables in the form of bracelets, a static infrastructure of communication nodes is deployed in the area to be monitored, and a cloud platform processes and displays the data collected on the ground.

Key Features of the System

• Monitor the location of workers in the area of interest.
• Detect the access/exit of workers in confined spaces.
• Remotely detect situations where the worker may require external assistance, using bracelet mechanisms like a panic button and motion detection.
• Warn workers of potential safety threats, such as access to dangerous areas or evacuation situations, using bracelet vibrations and emergency texts with precise instructions based on context.
• Remote monitoring of current and historical information through a web interface.

Application and Expansion of the System

In which refinery is the system being used?

The system was initially developed for a refinery but is applicable to other industrial sectors. It can be used permanently or during maintenance stops.

It has been used during maintenance stops at the Petronor (Repsol) refinery. Currently, we are exploring its potential use beyond the Oil & Gas sector, particularly in the electrical and construction sectors.

When and why was the need for this device identified?

It began in 2015 when Petronor wanted to enhance their traditional security mechanisms during maintenance stops with technology that allows real-time monitoring of plant activity.

Is the personal safety system always active or used in specific situations?

The system was originally designed for maintenance stops, characterized by intense activity from a large number of personnel.

What benefits has the system brought to refineries?

Remote monitoring and the possibility of remote action. The system is a two-way communication network between workers and the control center, allowing continuous monitoring and discrete human surveillance.

Collaboration with Accent Systems

When and why did you contact Accent Systems?

A refinery is classified as an area with explosion risk due to its productive activities; thus, conventional electronics cannot be used. During maintenance stops, the area is declassified, allowing conventional electronics. However, workers may leave this area, requiring explosion-proof (ATEX) electronics.

This need, combined with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), are the two basic technologies on which the system rests. When we saw Accent Systems’ expertise in designing ATEX electronics and developing BLE devices, we had no doubts.

How did the first contact take place?

We discovered Accent Systems via the Internet, and the first contact was by telephone, discussing the system needs we had in mind.

What was the development process like?

It was iterative, dynamic, and flexible. The original idea evolved into the current system, and with customer feedback, it will continue to evolve.

What would you highlight about Accent Systems?

Their agility, flexibility, technical competence, and kindness.

Would you recommend working with Accent Systems?

Of course!

Can you briefly describe Tecnalia?

Technology Center headquartered in the Basque country, with over 1300 employees, structured in divisions based on activities and sectors: industry and transport, ICT, energy and environment, sustainable construction, health, and Lab Services.