there could also be mechanical and/or base product issues.

Having timely
response from the experts that have either designed the mechanical or
control systems is important. Because the issue may not be easily seen in the
machine’s data, the use of AR will undoubtedly be part of Remote Access.

Connection to plant floor equipment to make changes should

be restricted and controlled by an assigned administrator.

Changes to any automated system, whether in operation or taken offline

for upgrades or troubleshooting, are a significant safety concern. Everyone
recognizes this, whether you are the end user, OEM, system integrator, or
equipment vendor. Since there is the potential for various individuals to be
involved with a specific device for multiple reasons, a single point of contact
must be established. This individual or department should act to coordinate
activities and communications with others seeking to access the device.

It was a unanimous agreement that any changes to equipment on the

plant floor from a Remote Location should have a local attendant from
the OT team in case of potential issues that could require some action.
The local individual should ensure that the Remote Access is targeted to
the appropriate device or devices.

Centralize the method to coordinate remote activities of

various individuals.
There are hundreds of devices and systems distributed throughout a
manufacturing plant. Hence, a structure needs to be put into place so that
various individuals acting to support their systems can operate in unison.

Think of the support for Remote Access like air traffic control in which many
individuals are responsible for various areas acting together. The success
is based on having a defined system and methodology and a tremendous
amount of communications. The other important element is

2021 I Practical Guide for Remote Access to Plant Equipment 57