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In the midst of growing concerns over terrorism and homeland security, many Americans are unaware of the 24/7/365 requirement for oil and gas production site security.

The reality is that many oil field locations make for the classic “soft targets” that terrorists seek for a number of reasons. From locations in remote areas to working sites with millions of dollars of equipment, oil fields are prime targets for terrorists, thieves, and black market operators.

Importance Of Proactive Protection

Fortunately, there are a number of ways technology and communications are allowing oil field owners and operators to address the issue of security affordably and effectively. If you are responsible for oil field operations and security, you have a great deal of potential help with today’s SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) solutions.

The simple fact is that there is no longer any excuse to leave even the most remote location unmonitored and properly protected. With thefts and vandalism on the rise, and even without considering the growing concerns over terrorism, the numbers dictate the need for a proactive effort to protect production, facilities, equipment and even tools.

Whether your exposure is to $30,000 separator or other expensive heavy equipment, the current active black market depends heavily on the operators who do not take the necessary steps to actively prevent thefts and vandalism. This is especially the case when it is now so relatively inexpensive to install the latest in surveillance equipment, including HD color cameras and alarms.

There is another straightforward reality about security. The law enforcement community uses the term “soft target” with a very specific message. This relates to the fact that most criminals, even the more stupid ones, will seek out an unprotected target as preferred over ones that have even minimal security. This is especially the case where a theft takes some time to pull off, such as dismantling expensive and high-demand heavy equipment.

More Than Money

Of course, in the oil field business the concern over losses are about far more than the direct money damages of a stolen piece of equipment. Oftentimes the costs in damage to equipment and loss of production exceed the actual cost of the stolen item. For example, stripping out copper wire may net the thief only a few hundred dollars, while stopping production and causing tens of thousands of dollars in damage.

However, many remote sites now have laptops and other mobile computing devices that contain significant amounts of sensitive data. This includes passwords and other information that can facilitate intrusions into networks and other important sources. In fact, targeting of these items is one of the most concerning issues for law enforcement and security personnel.

If you have not fully addressed your SCADA needs, you’ll find it worth your while to contact the professionals at Champion Automation today. Our mission is to provide you with the full spectrum of oilfield automation, with security as one of our many specialties.