For a multinational oil and gas company in Norway, Sofis recently designed a key management solution. The design includes an integrated PC, software and touch screen and allows for easy logging and authorization of the use of your interlocking keys. It also offers operators detailed interlock information and provides insight in the use and status of your systems.
Key management tracks valve interlock keys
Primarily, the system tracks the position of valve interlock keys once they are taken from the key cabinet. Before starting a valve operation, the operator must identify at a touch screen, using a personal ID code or tag. Key removals are logged in the cabinet PC and detailed key movements reports are available at the cabinet touch screen or remotely.
Authorized valve operation
Based on the authorization level linked to the operator ID, the system regulates access to the appropriate keys. As the system is linked with the DCS, keys are released depending on specific field variables, status of related systems, maintenance job planning, etc.
Improved operator convenience
The key management solution supplies interlocking sequence information per system. IOM and other related documentation are all stored and available via the touch screen. Additionally, instruction videos are available about how to use interlocks and how to resolve simple issues. Customer specific content can be easily uploaded to the system.
Valve operation integrated in overall planning
By linking the operation of interlocked valve systems to other planning systems, the Key Management Solution can be used to improve the planning of equipment changeovers and system operations. Connected to systems of general planning and maintenance, it serves as a pro-active tool to schedule operations and maintenance activities.