Flare's HES division keeps workers safe in some of the world's most hazardous environments, including oil and gas production. Can you tell us about what initially drew Flare into this highly specialised field?
Safety has always been at the forefront of Flare's mission. We have always recognised the unique challenges faced by personnel working in the oil and gas industry. Explosive atmospheres, exposure to toxic chemicals, and extreme working conditions are common in our industry. Flare's HES division was born out of a commitment to develop solutions that specifically address these risks and ensure the well-being of workers on the coalface.
One of Flare's standout products is the Atex Zone 1 Low Pressure Breathing Air Compressor. It sounds like a game-changer in terms of worker safety. Can you walk us through the thinking behind this innovation? What specific risks was this compressor designed to address?
The Zone 1 Compressor arose from a necessity to support workers operating in dangerous environments, particularly where space is limited, and concurrent activities are happening in the vicinity. Itis built with robust safety features like the air inlet plenum with gas detection. If it detects harmful gases, the entire system automatically shuts down while simultaneously activating a failsafe emergency air reserve and localised evacuation alarm. It's a multi-layered approach that prioritises worker safety.
That fail-safe feature is impressive. But safety goes beyond having the correct equipment, right? The quality and source of the breathing air seems equally important.
Absolutely. In the past, it was not uncommon to use filtered plant air, which brings with it its own concerns. One of the key features of the Zone 1 Compressor is its multi-stage filtration system. It surpasses the stringent requirements of BS:EN12021:2014, ensuring the air workers breathe is clean and free of contaminants. Furthermore, our system is independent, ensuring that operations, often safety-critical, can continue with limited influence from external factors. This is especially crucial in situations with a heightened risk of hazardous substances.
We touched on confined spaces earlier. Can you elaborate on how the Zone 1 Compressor benefits workers in these particularly dangerous situations?
Confined spaces are often the subject of complacency, but they remain a significant hazard causing fatalities in the industry. Toxic substances are not always the culprit as oxygen-deficient atmospheres are equally lethal. The Zone 1 Compressor ensures a consistent supply of clean, breathable air, allowing workers to perform their tasks safely and efficiently. It's a literal lifeline in these high-risk environments.
Versatility and Applications of the Zone 1 Compressor
Beyond confined spaces, what other applications is the Zone 1 Compressor suited for?
The compressor's versatility makes it valuable across a wide range of operations. Well interventions, workovers, waste transfer, and even sour service support can benefit from its capabilities. In these scenarios, the risk of encountering hazardous gases is significant, and the Zone 1 Compressor's advanced filtration and detection systems become acritical control measure.
The Zone 1 Compressor can also support multiple workers simultaneously. Can you tell us more about this feature?
The ability to provide clean breathing air for up to four workers concurrently allows teams to operate safely and efficiently without compromising on individual respiratory protection. This focus on multi-worker support reflects Flare's dedication to creating solutions that enhance overall safety standards in the industry.
Looking ahead, how do you see HES solutions evolving to meet the future challenges of the oil and gas industry?
The industry is constantly innovating, and so must HES solutions. We see a growing emphasis on integrating new technologies and capabilities into compressors allowing for even better monitoring of air quality and potential hazards while supporting larger teams.
It's clear that Flare is a leader in keeping workers safe in some of the world's most hazardous environments. Where can people find out more?
We remain dedicated to developing cutting-edge HES solutions that prioritise worker safety and well-being, ensuring everyone returns home safe after each shift. You can follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn, or visit our website at www.flarefse.com
