Description of the Integrated Electronic Security System – SISE Implemented at OCP (Heavy Crude Oil Pipleine) in Ecuador

The OCP (Oleoducto de Crudos Pesados - Heavy Crude Oil Pipeline) pipeline in Ecuador crosses through several regions determined by unique characteristics and threats. The pipeline runs almost parallel and at some points close (30km) to the border with Colombia, country with a very active group of illegal armed forces. It is also known that the logistics of these illegal groups operate within Ecuador. Within this context, and also considering minor delinquency within Ecuador, OCP Ecuador S.A. emphasized on the need to have a Security Management Model that addresses the security threats to which the pipeline is vulnerable. Under this model the company has invested in the implementation of an Integrated Electronic Security System (SISE) in order to monitor and control security of terminals, pumping and pressure reduction stations, block valve sites and other specific sites along the pipeline. This paper describes the SISE, its equipment and how it is managed in order to present a security model to other pipeline operators with similar threats.