Remote Oversight on the High Seas: How Faceport is Designed to Assist Oil Rig Inspections


Steve Mason, a senior engineer based in Houston, Texas, has spent decades ensuring the safety and efficiency of offshore oil rigs. With operations spanning vast distances in the Gulf of Mexico, traveling to inspect each rig personally became increasingly difficult. To address this challenge, Steve’s company explored the potential of Faceport’s telepresence technology as a way to provide remote oversight.
On a day when Steve would normally be gearing up for a flight to the Gulf, he found himself sitting in his Houston office. Instead of traveling miles offshore, he visited the crew on an oil rig via Faceport. The Faceport Helmet, worn by a crew member on-site, allowed Steve to participate in safety checks and operational discussions, offering real-time input as if he were physically present on the rig.
“Let’s take a closer look at the new assembly,” Steve said, his image and voice clearly projected to the crew. As they conducted the inspection, Steve was able to guide them step-by-step, ensuring that all safety protocols were followed. The experience was seamless, and the crew appreciated having his expertise available, even from a distance.
For Steve, it wasn’t just about convenience—it was about maintaining the same level of thoroughness and attention to detail that he brought to every in-person inspection. “This technology is designed to allow me to be involved in operations across multiple locations without sacrificing quality or safety,” he remarked.
Faceport is designed to be a valuable tool for professionals like Steve, providing a way to maintain hands-on involvement in essential offshore operations, ensuring both safety and operational efficiency, even when physical presence isn’t possible.