In today’s digital landscape, protecting critical infrastructure is no longer just about physical barriers, it’s about cyber resilience.
Following a series of high-profile cyberattacks targeting the energy sector, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strengthened its cybersecurity directives for pipeline owners and operators.
These updates signal a shift from static compliance to active defense. At Wescom, we’re helping our clients meet these standards with smart, secure solutions.
What’s Changing?
The TSA’s 2023 cybersecurity directive introduces stronger, risk-based requirements, including:
- Layered Defense Strategies (e.g., network segmentation, zero-trust architecture)
- Continuous Cybersecurity Assessments
- Timely Incident Reporting
- Vulnerability Management & Patch Implementation
- Cybersecurity Implementation Plans (CIPs) aligned with NIST frameworks
These requirements reflect the critical importance of real-time responsiveness, visibility, and resilience in pipeline operations.
How Wescom Supports Compliance
As a trusted automation and electrical contractor in the oil and gas industry, Wescom understands the complexity of pipeline systems and the need for secure, integrated solutions. Here’s how we help:
- Experience with TSA Control System Requirements Wescom has extensive experience with oil & gas clients all across the country and updating control systems to meet TSA compliance. Our panel shop, automation and electrical teams work closely with engineering firms, clients and regulatory offices to ensure proper protocols are being followed, while optimizing equipment capabilities and reducing downtime for operations.
- Experience with Programming, Control System Equipment and Installation Not only is Wescom a premier electrical contractor in the industry, but our automation team provides the control system programming and UL508A control panels to meet the TSA automation upgrade standards. Wescom is able to provide turn-key packages for our clients, with equipment shipped to site and installed all across the country.
- Infrastructure Upgrades We understand the current initiatives of these regulation changes and are providing the infrastructure to meet TSA standards. This includes Wescom built UL508A control panels.
- OT/IT Integration We design systems that bring operational technology and IT together, securely and reliably.
- Ongoing Support Wescom provides ongoing control system support to keep our clients systems secure and production moving forward. We understand the effects of downtime and importance of moving product to continue Energizing America.
Why It Matters
The 2021 Colonial Pipeline cyberattack brought national fuel supply to a halt and exposed the vulnerabilities in our infrastructure.
This isn’t just about regulatory checkboxes. It’s about keeping America energized and protected.
At Wescom, we believe a secure control system is essential to the future of our industry—and we’re ready to help you get there.
Safety Moment
Heat Stress
Heat stress occurs when the body can’t cool itself through sweating, rest, and hydration. This can lead to fatigue, illness, or even death if not addressed.
Key Risk Factors:
- High temperatures and humidity
- Direct sun or radiant heat exposure
- Heavy physical activity
- Inadequate airflow or ventilation
- Wearing heavy or dark clothing
Protect Yourself & Your Team:
- Acclimatize: Gradually increase workload for new/returning workers
- Hydrate: Drink water every 15–20 minutes
- Plan: Schedule heavy work during cooler parts of the day
- Rest: Take breaks in shaded or cool areas
- Monitor: Use the buddy system to spot early symptoms
- Dress Right: Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing
- For FR Clothing: When FR clothing is required: choose the lightest, more breathable FR-rated garments that meet safety standards, use moisture-wicking FR base layers, increase frequency of rest and hydration breaks, rotate workers more often to limit time in direct sun and heat, and provide access to cooling stations or fans.
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Headache, nausea, dizziness
- Heavy sweating or dry, hot skin
- Elevated body temperature
- Extreme thirst or confusion
Respond Quickly:
- Move to a cool area
- Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths
- Offer water (if conscious)
- Call emergency services for severe symptoms
Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay safe.
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