Narrative Report: Field Visits to Engineering Facilities with Safety Protocols

As a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) student at Bataan

Peninsula State University (BPSU), I have had the privilege of visiting several
significant industrial facilities. These visits provided invaluable real-world insights,
allowing me to observe firsthand how the engineering concepts I study in the
classroom are applied in the field. Below is a detailed account of my experiences at
the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), GigaMare, Subic EnerZone, Pangea Green
Energy Philippines, and Fujihaya Electric Corporation, with particular attention to the
safety protocols implemented at each site.

Day 1: Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, GigaMare, Subic EnerZone Corporation

The first day of the tour began with a visit to the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant
(BNPP). Although the plant was never commissioned, it remains a significant part of
Philippine energy history. My visit to BNPP exposed me to the complexity of nuclear
power generation and the stringent safety protocols that are integral to its
operation.
Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP)
BNPP follows comprehensive safety procedures aimed at preventing and mitigating
potential nuclear hazards. The facility is designed with seismic-resistant structures
to ensure stability during earthquakes, an essential feature in any nuclear plant.
One of the most critical aspects of BNPP’s safety is the emergency shutdown
system (SCRAM), which automatically shuts down the reactor in the event of an
abnormal condition, preventing any potential escalation.
Radiation protection is another key aspect of BNPP’s safety protocols. The plant
utilizes multiple containment barriers and shielding to prevent any radiation
leakage. In addition, BNPP has a rigorous waste management protocol to handle and
store radioactive materials safely. The plant also includes redundant systems,
meaning that if one system fails, others take over, ensuring that safety is
maintained at all times. To protect against external threats, security measures such
as armed personnel and cybersecurity systems are in place. The plant also adheres
to strict environmental monitoring protocols to minimize any negative impact on the
surrounding environment.
The visit to BNPP emphasized that nuclear energy requires an extraordinary level of
risk management, safety systems, and engineering expertise to ensure its safe
operation. The strict safety protocols in place at BNPP demonstrated how
engineering solutions must account for the most extreme hazards, ensuring the
well-being of both workers and the surrounding community.
GigaMare
Next, I visited GigaMare, a leading provider of hands-on training for the maritime,
industrial, and renewable energy sectors. GigaMare provided me with an
opportunity to explore how electrical engineering theory is applied in real-world
automation and control systems. At GigaMare, I saw how Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs) and SCADA systems are used in industrial automation, which
directly ties into my coursework in motor control and automation systems.
The safety protocols at GigaMare are robust, reflecting their commitment to
ensuring a safe and secure working environment for all trainees and staff. One of
the primary safety measures at GigaMare is the use of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
procedures. This ensures that equipment is properly de-energized and cannot be
restarted while maintenance or training is being conducted. Additionally, the facility
adheres to strict personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, including
helmets, gloves, and safety boots, to protect workers and trainees from potential
hazards.
GigaMare also emphasizes a safety-first mindset through rigorous safety drills and
risk scenario training, allowing trainees to practice responding to emergency
situations. Health monitoring is also mandatory, ensuring that any health issues
related to work conditions are addressed immediately. The facility ensures that the
environment is clean and safe by mandating regular sanitization, mask usage, and
controlled access to high-traffic areas. Their commitment to safety is evident in both
their protocols and their culture, ensuring that everyone in the facility is constantly
aware of and prepared for potential risks.
Subic EnerZone Corporation
The final visit of the first day was to Subic EnerZone Corporation, which manages
the distribution of electricity in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. During this visit, I
learned about the operation and maintenance of power distribution systems, with a
particular focus on voltage stability and fault protection. One of the engineering
concepts that stood out was the use of load flow analysis, which ensures that
electricity is efficiently distributed to minimize energy losses and prevent voltage
drops across the network.
Safety is a top priority at Subic EnerZone, and several protocols are in place to
protect both workers and the local community. One of the most critical safety
measures is their emergency response protocol. Subic EnerZone maintains a fleet of
ambulances and works closely with local emergency response teams to ensure that
help is available within minutes in case of any electrical accidents. Their partnership
with local authorities ensures swift and coordinated responses to emergencies.
In addition, fire safety is heavily emphasized. The company runs fire prevention
campaigns and conducts regular fire drills to train employees on how to react in the
event of an electrical fire. Employees are also trained in the proper use of fire
extinguishers and other fire-fighting equipment. Predictive maintenance tools, such
as thermal imaging, are employed to monitor equipment and detect any potential
fire hazards before they escalate. These proactive measures ensure that the system
operates smoothly and safely, even under challenging conditions.

Day 2: Pangea Green Energy Philippines, Inc., Fujihaya Electric Corp.

On the second day, the tour began at Pangea Green Energy Philippines, a facility
that integrates renewable energy sources like biogas into the national grid. This visit
provided me with an in-depth understanding of green energy technologies and the
safety measures associated with them.
Pangea Green Energy Philippines, Inc.
Pangea Green Energy specializes in the conversion of organic waste into biogas,
which is then used to generate electricity. I learned about the anaerobic digestion
process, where microorganisms break down organic material to produce methane-
rich biogas, which is used as fuel in power generation. The facility emphasizes
energy conversion efficiency, ensuring that the maximum amount of energy is
extracted from the waste material.
Safety at Pangea is centered around both operational safety and environmental
responsibility. Since methane is highly flammable, the plant has comprehensive gas
leak detection systems to monitor the facility for any signs of gas leaks. These
systems are vital in preventing any potential explosions or fires. Additionally, the
plant adheres to global safety standards, such as those outlined by the Kyoto
Protocol, ensuring that their operations reduce harmful emissions and minimize
environmental impact.
Environmental safety measures at Pangea are complemented by strict operational
protocols to ensure that all workers are protected. PPE is mandatory at all times,
and regular safety drills are conducted to prepare staff for emergency situations. In
addition, the facility has a strict waste management protocol to handle byproducts
from the biogas production process, ensuring that no harmful substances are
released into the environment.
Fujihaya Electric Corporation
The final site I visited was Fujihaya Electric Corporation, a manufacturer of electrical
equipment, including transformers and motors. This visit allowed me to witness how
electrical machines are designed, tested, and manufactured in the industry.
Fujihaya Electric implements stringent safety protocols, particularly in ensuring the
safety of their workers during manufacturing processes. Employees are required to
wear full PPE, including gloves, helmets, and safety shoes, to protect against
electrical hazards and potential accidents. Additionally, quality control checks are
performed regularly to ensure that all electrical products meet industry safety
standards. These include tests for insulation resistance and efficiency, which are
essential for ensuring that the products operate safely and reliably in the field.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are strictly followed during maintenance and
repair activities to prevent accidents related to the accidental re-energization of
equipment. Additionally, the facility has a strong focus on workplace cleanliness to
minimize hazards related to tripping, electrical fires, and machinery malfunctions.
Routine maintenance checks are conducted to ensure that all equipment is in
optimal working condition, further ensuring the safety of the workers.