How Are Control Centers Used in Drilling Sites?
- Mann's Cans

- Nov 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Oil and gas drilling sites are complex operations that require precision, safety, and constant monitoring. From managing equipment to tracking data in real time, every decision made on-site can impact productivity and safety. That’s why control centers play such an important role in modern drilling operations.
At Mann’s Cans, we design portable oil and gas control centers that provide the mobility, durability, and technology companies need to manage their drilling operations effectively. Built from high-quality one-trip shipping containers, these control centers are strong enough for field environments while being easy to transport between job sites.
Here’s how control centers are used in drilling sites and why they’re essential for efficient operations.

Centralized Monitoring and Operations
A control center serves as the command hub of a drilling site. It’s where operators oversee everything from drilling performance and safety systems to environmental monitoring.
Inside these control centers, teams can track:
Drilling pressure and depth
Equipment performance
Fluid flow and temperature levels
Safety alarms and emergency systems
Communication between teams
By having a centralized workspace, field operators can quickly identify potential issues, make real-time decisions, and ensure drilling efficiency.
Built for Harsh and Remote Environments
Drilling sites often operate in remote, rugged locations where weather and terrain can be challenging. Control centers must be durable enough to handle these conditions while keeping personnel safe and comfortable.
At Mann’s Cans, we use one-trip shipping containers made from COR-TEN weathering steel, a material engineered to resist rust, corrosion, and impact. Each unit is sealed, insulated, and equipped with ventilation systems to withstand harsh outdoor conditions while maintaining a stable internal environment.
These portable units are perfect for Harrison City, PA, and surrounding regions where drilling operations can encounter variable weather year-round.
Real-Time Data and Communication
In drilling, data is everything. Control centers serve as the data nerve center of the operation, housing advanced monitoring equipment and communication systems that connect field teams to headquarters.
Operators can:
Access live drilling data
Communicate with engineers and managers off-site
Adjust machinery settings remotely
Analyze performance reports for efficiency and safety
This integration of data and communication ensures that every part of the drilling process runs smoothly and that problems are identified before they escalate.
Safety and Emergency Response
Safety is a top priority on any drilling site. Control centers are often the first line of defense when something goes wrong.
These units are equipped with:
Emergency shutoff systems
Alarm monitoring and notification systems
Fire-resistant construction
Secure communication lines
By monitoring environmental and operational conditions continuously, control centers help reduce risk and protect both workers and assets.
At Mann’s Cans, we also design units with non-slip flooring, lockable doors, and fire-rated materials to keep staff safe during daily operations or emergencies.
Portable and Easy to Deploy
One of the biggest advantages of container-based control centers is their mobility. Traditional control rooms can take months to build and are often fixed in one location. Portable control centers, on the other hand, can be delivered and operational within days.
Once completed, they can be transported by truck or trailer and set up directly on-site. When drilling operations move, the control center moves with them, making it a flexible and cost-efficient solution.
Our team at Mann’s Cans ensures every control center is designed for easy relocation, with reinforced framing, pre-installed utilities, and durable exterior coatings to handle repeated transport.
Fully Customizable for Any Drilling Operation
Every drilling site operates differently, which is why each control center we build is custom-designed to fit specific needs.
Popular features include:
Workstations with data monitors
Electrical panels and network systems
Climate control systems for comfort
Storage and tool areas
Safety equipment and lighting systems
We can even design multi-container control centers that connect side-by-side or stack vertically for additional space and functionality.
The Bottom Line
Control centers are the heart of any drilling operation. They bring together communication, safety, and operational control into one centralized hub that keeps drilling sites efficient and secure.
At Mann’s Cans, we specialize in building portable, durable, and fully customized control centers made from high-quality shipping containers. Whether you’re managing a small field project or a large-scale drilling operation, our container-based designs deliver performance you can count on.
Let’s Build Your Custom Control Center
If you’re ready to improve the efficiency and safety of your drilling site, Mann’s Cans can help. Our team designs and delivers portable oil and gas control centers built to withstand the toughest environments while meeting your exact operational needs.
Call 724-790-5040 today or fill out our online form to request a custom quote. Let’s build a control center that keeps your drilling operations connected, efficient, and secure, no matter where the job takes you.





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