EAM PODCAST - SHIFT LOG Episode 6 - Navigating the Complexities of EX and ATEX Inspections:

AG PRESENTS

Navigating the Complexities of EX and ATEX Inspections: A Conversation with Kevin Barker

In critical sectors like oil and gas, where explosive atmospheres present constant risks, EX / ATEX inspections are not merely regulatory hurdles but fundamental pillars of safety. This episode delves into an insightful conversation with Kevin Barker, a seasoned expert who sheds light on the critical facets of these specialised inspections. In this episode, we explore everything from ensuring rigorous compliance with stringent safety regulations to leveraging cutting-edge inspection technology and advanced software solutions to streamline vital maintenance processes.

We'll uncover the paramount importance of data integrity in an age of digital transformation, examine the challenges of integrating new systems to meet evolving industry standards, and peer into the future. Our discussion considers the transformative potential of AI in inspections and the need for dynamic, adaptive inspection methodologies.

This conversation provides a comprehensive overview for anyone seeking to enhance safety and efficiency in hazardous environments.

About the Guest:

Kevin Barker, SAP Data Lead, EAM DATA, AG Consultancy & Apps Ltd.

Kevin Barker is a Consultant at AG with SAP expertise dating back to 2000. He specializes in international manufacturing products for light industrial and medical sectors. As an SAP Subject Matter Expert (SME), he possesses extensive experience across production and supply chain operations, gained from significant time on the end-user side. For the past nine years at AG, his focus has been on data-driven initiatives.

We live in a time of remarkable technological and engineering breakthroughs. Every day, advancements in hardware and software redefine what’s possible. Yet, despite all this progress, there’s often a gap before these innovations reach the engineers and maintenance teams who need them most. Sometimes it’s about budgets, but more often, it’s about trust—trust in the tools, the processes, and the effort it takes to make them work. The result? People doing some of the hardest and riskiest jobs are left without the resources that could make their work easier, safer, and less stressful.

We deeply care about and understand this. We believe IT can meaningfully lighten the load for engineers and maintenance teams—not by claiming to solve every problem but by offering practical ways to make the day-to-day a little better. Technology should serve people, not just as a means to efficiency but as a way to genuinely improve their lives.

That’s why we started this podcast. It’s a place to talk openly about the challenges these teams face, share real stories, and explore practical ways technology can help. It’s about building connections, learning from one another, and finding ways to bridge the gap together. We’ll also talk about SAP Enterprise Asset Management and where it fits in, but at its core, this podcast is about supporting the people who make it all happen