Security and Emergency Response
U.S. refiners, petrochemical manufacturers and midstream operators maintain constant vigilance to keep their facilities secure and to protect the people who depend on them. Facing evolving physical and digital threats, they apply a flexible, multi-layered approach to security—combining continuous risk assessment, strong protective systems and close coordination with public-sector partners. Through strict regulatory compliance and a culture of preparedness, these industries ensure the reliability and resilience of America’s energy and petrochemical infrastructure.
Enhanced Security Measures for a Resilient Energy Sector
AFPM member companies are deploying cutting-edge systems to reinforce both physical and cyber defenses, backed by strategic coordination that keeps operations resilient. These forward-looking investments anticipate emerging risks, accelerate incident response and safeguard critical infrastructure, enhanced by private–public partnerships that expand intelligence sharing and collaboration.
Strengthening Physical Security
AFPM member companies are deploying advanced technologies to safeguard critical infrastructure from environmental and human threats. Innovations include:
- Smart Drones for Surveillance and Safety: Drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and high-definition imaging monitor facilities, detect anomalies and reduce human exposure to hazardous environments. Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) provide early alerts for unauthorized drones, while new regulations enable autonomous, beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights for pipeline inspections and emergency response.
- Material Advancements: Engineers are developing advanced materials that can withstand extreme conditions, strengthening critical infrastructure against environmental and human threats. These innovations include thermal insulation, corrosion-resistant alloys and carbon fiber composites that protect and reinforce equipment and pipelines.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Expanding the Frontiers of Energy Security
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, support security and safety efforts across the refining, petrochemical and midstream industries. They enable operators to monitor facilities, detect threats such as vandalism, theft and trespassing, and confirm that only authorized personnel have access. Many sites also use C-UAS detection systems to identify unauthorized drones entering restricted airspace, providing early alerts and reducing reliance on physical security measures like guards and perimeter fencing.
Drones also improve safety by identifying and mitigating risks and limiting human exposure to hazardous environments. They strengthen emergency responsiveness by replacing human observers in dangerous conditions and can detect hazards that humans might miss. Drones can also carry high-definition cameras and night vision capabilities to provide around-the-clock protection.
More recently, companies are enhancing drone monitoring capabilities by introducing artificial intelligence. Through continuous learning, AI distinguishes normal from abnormal conditions, allowing it to spot anomalies at facilities and near pipelines. For example, a drone could identify a hole in a fence and alert teams that an area needs investigation. This technology eliminates hours of manual monitoring, making drone surveillance more efficient and cost-effective.
Additionally, recent advancements in drone regulations lay the foundation for autonomous, beyond visual-line-of-sight flights that further expand drone capabilities. As soon as next year, pilots will be able to use automated systems to fly drones far beyond their line of sight without needing the Federal Aviation Administration’s approval. This means that drones can inspect long stretches of pipeline and monitor facilities from a distance. These new capabilities make drones more useful than ever, adding an extra layer of safety and security to operations—the potential applications are nearly endless.