Latch monitoring system installed on semi-submersible rig operating offshore the Americas 

Salunda, the global leader in digitised solutions for safety-critical industries, has strengthened its presence in the Americas deepwater region with the successful deployment of its Latch Hawk monitoring system on a semi-submersible rig. 

The installation, completed earlier this year, forms part of Salunda’s growing activity in the Americas deepwater market – where its patented latch monitoring technologies have become a preferred solution for hazardous area monitoring among major operators in the area.  

Integrated with the drilling control system on the rig, Latch Hawk provides real-time feedback on the status of fingerboard latches located within the drilling derrick, acting as a critical safety barrier to DROPS incidents on drill floors.  

Alan Finlay, Salunda chief executive, said:
“Our intensive work in the Americas deepwater region reflects the growing global recognition of Latch Hawk as a trusted solution for preventing DROPS incidents during operations. As operators strive for safer and more efficient performance, technologies like Latch Hawk play a critical role in reducing risk and helping prevent accidents before they occur. 

“This latest deployment is part of a broader rollout across the region, which highlights the positive reception our technology continues to receive. This is a clear demonstration of how Latch Hawk is enabling crews to work more confidently, safely and with greater situational awareness. Consequently, operators in the region have observed a decrease in incidents involving fingerboards." 

Salunda’s Latch Hawk system is a fingerboard monitoring solution that removes the need for manual spotters or camera surveillance. It provides instant and dependable confirmation of the status of each latch, warning if latches are stuck or out of specification, helping crews proactively address issues and avoid equipment failures. 

This deployment features the second-generation Latch Hawk system, which includes key advancements such as novel sensor technology, enhanced shock and vibration resistance, a more robust casing design, cloud-based digital condition monitoring and an extended battery life of more than seven years. 

Earlier this year, Salunda also expanded the use of its safety technologies in Guyana with the installation of its Crew Hawk Red Zone monitoring systems on four drilling platforms. These systems combine accurate, low latency personnel tracking with dynamic zones around active machinery, further advancing the region’s commitment to safer offshore operations. 

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