Allnex – Improved communication security in chemical production

Allnex (Thailand) Ltd. selected i.safe MOBILE‘s IS440.1 intrinsically safe 5G radio to enhance communication safety across their chemical manufacturing facility. The lightweight, robust device paired with Streamwide‘s Push-to-Talk solution Team on the Run has positively transformed daily communication for Operations, Maintenance, and Safety departments, replacing their previous explosion-proof two-way radio system from another provider with this more versatile and efficient solution.

Allnex is the global market leader in industrial coating resins, adhesives, sealants and specialty coatings. The company‘s Thai operations, employing 72 staff members, represent a crucial part of Allnex‘s international manufacturing network, producing basic inorganic chemical products that serve industries worldwide.

Operating in the chemical manufacturing sector requires stringent safety protocols and reliable communication systems. Allnex Thailand‘s facility encompasses both office environments and hazardous plant process areas where traditional communication devices may pose safety risks. The company previously relied on conventional explosion-proof radios, which were safe but offered
limited functionality and flexibility for modern industrial processes.

The need for a comprehensive communication solution that could operate safely across all areas of the facility — from administrative offices to potentially explosive atmospheres in the production areas — became paramount as the company sought to modernise its operations whilst maintaining the highest safety standards. 

Improving overall coverage was also a key priority, as the LMR system had limited reach in certain areas of the facility. The broadband-based solution offered through 5G and Wi-Fi now ensures seamless communication across all operational zones.

The deployment of the IS440.1 devices spans across all operational areas within Allnex Thailand‘s facility. The operations, maintenance, and safety departments utilise the devices as their primary communication tool for daily tasks, ensuring seamless coordination between office-based personnel and those working in the production environment. The intuitive radio-like design and dedicated PTT button ensured a smooth transition from legacy radios, allowing staff to adopt the new system with minimal training or disruption.

The Push-to-Talk functionality serves as the most frequently used feature, providing instant communication capabilities that are essential for maintaining operational efficiency and safety protocols. The familiar radio-style communication method ensured minimal disruption during the transition from the previous system.

A key factor in ensuring user acceptance was the IS440.1’s rotary channel selector, which works seamlessly with Streamwide Team on the Run’s capability to configure multiple talkgroups. This combination delivers an intuitive experience that closely replicates the functionality of their former LMR system. Users can quickly switch between communication groups using the physical dial,
mirroring the familiar workflows of traditional two-way radios while benefiting from the added flexibility and scalability of a modern IP-based solution. 

The decision to choose i.safe MOBILE was driven by two primary factors: proven performance in industrial environments and trust in the brand‘s reputation for reliable, safety-certified devices. This confidence in the technology has enabled Allnex Thailand to maintain operational continuity whilst upgrading their communication infrastructure.

The implementation has delivered the expected improvements in communication efficiency and device versatility. The lightweight nature of the IS440.1, compared to traditional explosion-proof radios, has been particularly appreciated by users who carry the devices throughout their shifts. Users typically attach the device using the belt clip to their coveralls, ensuring secure and convenient carrying during daily operations. Feedback from teams has highlighted not only the comfort of the lightweight design, but also the enhanced audio clarity and extended battery life that support long operational shifts in demanding environments.

Building on the success of the initial deployment, Allnex Thailand is planning to expand their i.safe MOBILE ecosystem. Future procurement plans include the IS-DC440.1 Desktop Charger Set to ensure optimal device management and charging infrastructure. The company is also exploring the addition of protective leather cases to further enhance device longevity in their demanding industrial environment.

With the transition from narrowband to broadband communication through the IS440.1’s 5G capabilities, Allnex Thailand is also evaluating advanced multimedia functionalities such as Streamwide’s Push-to-Video functionality within Team on the Run. This feature would enable teams in Operations, Maintenance, and Safety to share live video feeds instantly, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making in critical scenarios. The integration of Push-to-Video complements the current Push-to-Talk use, providing a richer communication toolset that supports faster incident response and more effective remote collaboration across both office and hazardous plant environments.