Wireless Safety Net: Tech Enables Operations in Iraq’s Hazardous Oilfields

By Joyce Watson

Basra, Iraq – Operating in some of the world’s most challenging environments demands innovation, and that’s exactly what TotalEnergies delivered at its Ratawi oilfield in southern Iraq. Facing the persistent threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and the logistical hurdles of a remote location, the energy giant turned to wireless technology to deploy a critical gas detection system, paving the way for safer and more efficient operations.

Traditionally, installing gas detection infrastructure in hazardous areas like Ratawi requires laying extensive cabling. However, the region’s legacy of conflict meant that disturbing the ground carried significant risk. “The presence of UXO made traditional cabling methods unfeasible,” explains one industry source familiar with the project. “It wasn’t just about the cost, it was about the safety of the workers.”

TotalEnergies partnered with Dräger, a leading provider of safety technology, to implement a wireless gas detection system certified to Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL2) – a stringent standard for critical safety applications. This system utilizes the ISA100 standard, a robust and reliable wireless communication protocol designed for industrial environments. Unlike traditional wired systems, the wireless network required no trenching or underground work, significantly reducing the risk to personnel and minimizing environmental disruption.

Overcoming Obstacles in a Hazardous Landscape

The Ratawi oilfield, located in the Basra Governorate, presents a unique set of challenges. Decades of conflict have left the area littered with UXO, remnants of past wars. Deploying any infrastructure requires meticulous planning and careful execution to avoid detonating hidden explosives.

“It's not just about avoiding the immediate blast,” one source explained. “Disturbing UXO can also release harmful chemicals and create secondary hazards. Wireless technology allowed us to bypass that entire risk profile.”

The wireless system’s benefits extended beyond safety. Installation was significantly faster and more cost-effective, reducing downtime and allowing TotalEnergies to bring the Ratawi Hub online more quickly. The system also offers greater flexibility and scalability, allowing the company to easily add or relocate sensors as needed.

The Power of Wireless: A Shift in Industrial Safety

The deployment at Ratawi represents a broader trend in the industrial sector: a move towards wireless technology to improve safety, efficiency, and reliability. Wireless systems offer several advantages over traditional wired infrastructure:

• Reduced Installation Costs: Eliminating the need for cabling significantly reduces installation time and expenses.
• Increased Flexibility: Wireless sensors can be easily moved or relocated without requiring extensive rewiring.
• Enhanced Scalability: Wireless networks can be easily expanded to accommodate changing needs.
• Improved Safety: Wireless systems minimize the risk of disturbing hazardous materials or creating secondary hazards.

“Wireless technology is no longer just a convenience; it’s becoming a necessity,” says an industry expert. “Companies are realizing that it’s the most effective way to manage risk and protect their workers in challenging environments.”

Beyond Ratawi: The Future of Industrial Safety

The success of the wireless gas detection system at Ratawi has sparked interest from other companies operating in hazardous environments. The ISA100 standard, with its proven reliability and security, is quickly becoming the preferred choice for critical safety applications.

The technology isn’t limited to the oil and gas sector. It’s being adopted in a wide range of industries, including chemical processing, manufacturing, and mining. From detecting leaks and preventing fires to monitoring air quality and protecting workers from toxic substances, wireless sensors are playing an increasingly important role in keeping workplaces safe.

“What we’re seeing is a fundamental shift in how companies approach industrial safety,” explains another industry source. “The focus is no longer just on reacting to incidents; it’s on proactively preventing them. Wireless technology is enabling that proactive approach by providing real-time data and allowing companies to identify and address potential hazards before they escalate.”

The deployment at Ratawi isn’t just about a single gas detection system; it’s about demonstrating the power of technology to overcome challenges, protect workers, and unlock opportunities in some of the world’s most demanding environments. It represents a significant step forward in the evolution of industrial safety and a glimpse into the future of a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable energy industry.