Supermajor Shell has rolled out a version of its LubeAdvisor to its customers in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain allowing them to access the service remotely and in real time using wearable technology.

The wearable gadget enables Shell’s team to provide customers with remote consultations, eliminating the need for a face-to-face interaction, or physical presence on their locations.

The technology also enables real-time monitoring of field technicians to ensure their safety and provide them with audio-visual assistance to perform maintenance services.

One of the first adopters of wearable technology, Shell says it is focused on equipping frontline workers in vital sectors such as oil and gas, construction and transportation.

The technology allows them to raise notifications, engage with offsite experts for over-the-shoulder coaching, communicate for status of equipment and tools that will ultimately improve safety, efficiency and result in faster, better decision making, all in real time.

“Integrating wearable tech with inspection and maintenance technologies to improve operational efficiencies and minimise risk to workforce is a key focus for us at Shell,” says Shell Lubricants Middle East general manager Haytham Yehia.

“These wearable devices are made to withstand extreme temperature variations and resist oil, chemical spills, heavy rain and dust among other things, making the working environment more secure.”

The wearable device provides a personalised consultation, without a physical site visit, that ultimately removes the complications of diary scheduling and travel arrangements, while adhering to social distance guidelines and travel restrictions, without causing delays in service.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has proven that being agile with business operations is key. This is particularly important during a time where challenges with how we typically operate has forced us to reinvent the wheel and identify ways that eliminate an impact on operations and ensure business continuity,” he adds.