VDOS to pioneer the use of UAV technology in offshore inspections
CORVALLIS, ORE (US) – VDOS Global LLC, an Oregon-based provider of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) inspection services and data collection, is the first company to receive approval by the FAA to perform commercial inspection services using UAVs. The waiver issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows VDOS Global to pioneer the practice of using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology to perform off-shore inspections for structures owned and operated by Shell, a global group of energy and petrochemicals companies, throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
VDOS founder and CEO Brian Whiteside said, “We are proud to be the first company approved by the FAA to help the Oil and Gas industry improve safety and protect the environment through the use of UAV technology. Our experience as military and commercial pilots combined with our commitment to safety make us the right team to take this important first step for the industry. We are also proud of our relationship with Shell and of our shared commitment to maintain the highest standards of safety in executing UAV inspections on their installations.”
Collaborative efforts between VDOS and Shell will advance the use of robotics for safety furthering the goal of reducing potential hazards to personnel. The collaboration will allow the companies to continue to push the limits of technology while forging a path that will support the proper and safe use of UAV in the oil and gas industry, thus enabling the industry to operate with improved techniques and practices.
With more than 3,500 potential inspection sites in the Gulf of Mexico alone, VDOS anticipates significant demand to perform inspections that are time and cost intensive for oil and gas producers. UAV technology utilizes high definition and thermal imaging to detect faults, corrosion and other signs of deterioration, while posing no additional risk to humans and without interrupting operations. Results can be interpreted immediately, allowing for the prompt reporting and handling of matters pursuant to an operator’s safety management systems.
VDOS Global has strategic relationships with top manufacturers of UAV technology, allowing them to create and operate customized packages of software and equipment, based on the unique data needs and environment of each client. VDOS Global’s unparalleled experience operating UAVs allows them to perform inspections for major worldwide energy producers. VDOS Global is expanding their operations and currently is planning operations in Canada and Alaska. VDOS is also committed to lending their expertise to humanitarian causes and supports the Multination Communications Interoperability Programme by assisting in the development of emergency response plans for the Pacific Rim Nations. The company is a member of the Pan Pacific UAS Test Range, and manages the Warm Springs UAS Test Site.
