In industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, mining, and energy, safety is a top priority. Field workers in these environments rely on intrinsically safe devices—hardware engineered to operate without igniting flammable substances. But hardware alone isn’t enough. To maximize effectiveness, these devices require specialized software designed to operate efficiently, safely, and compliantly within explosive environments.
This article explores the best intrinsically safe software solutions available today. You’ll learn how these applications work, which devices they pair with, and how to deploy them in real-world scenarios—all with links to certified devices from Intrinsically Safe Store.
What is Intrinsically Safe Software?
Intrinsically safe software refers to software platforms and mobile applications optimized to run on intrinsically safe hardware—devices certified for use in explosive atmospheres (Zone 1, Zone 2, Class I Division 1/2). While the software itself does not receive ATEX or IECEx certification, it is designed to operate within the limits of intrinsically safe devices.
Features of intrinsically safe software typically include:
Low power consumption and optimized resource use
Offline data collection and synchronization
Compliance tracking and reporting
Geolocation and worker safety features
Looking for certified devices compatible with intrinsically safe software? Browse our certified mobile hardware lineup →
Why Is Intrinsically Safe Software Important?
1. Compliance Management:
Helps businesses maintain compliance with OSHA, IECEx, ATEX, and other safety regulations by providing audit trails, maintenance logs, and inspection records.
2. Operational Efficiency:
Streamlines inspections, maintenance workflows, and field reporting processes, reducing paperwork and human error.
3. Enhanced Worker Safety:
Supports lone worker monitoring, man-down detection, and real-time alerts to keep employees safe in remote or hazardous areas.
4. Real-Time Data Access:
Allows real-time decision-making with live sync capabilities, even in areas with intermittent network access.
5. Offline Functionality:
Continues to function without network access and syncs automatically when reconnected, ensuring no data is lost.
Want to equip your team with reliable software-ready devices? Shop intrinsically safe phones & tablets
Top Intrinsically Safe Software Solutions in 2025
Here are the most trusted intrinsically safe software platforms currently used across multiple high-risk industries:
1. Fat Finger by SEE Forge
Best for: Workflow automation, inspections, and incident reporting
Key Features:
No-code builder for custom forms and checklists
Mobile-first design with full offline capability
Integration with major enterprise systems (SAP, Power BI)
Certifications: Works on ATEX and Class I Division 1 certified hardware such as the i.safe MOBILE IS930.1 tablet
Use Cases: Oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, utilities
Related Devices: Explore IS930.1 Android Tablet
2. ServiceMax Go
Best for: Asset and field service management
Key Features:
Offline access to work orders and asset history
Digital forms, photo uploads, and e-signatures
Seamless integration with ERP and CMMS systems
Certifications: Compatible with intrinsically safe phones such as the Sonim XP8
Use Cases: Maintenance teams, field technicians, utilities
Related Devices: Shop Sonim XP8
3. eSENTINEL (by ECOM Instruments)
Best for: Lone worker safety and emergency response
Key Features:
Automated man-down and panic alert systems
Real-time GPS tracking with geofencing
Integrates with wearables and IoT devices
Certifications: Works with ECOM Smart-Ex 02 DZ1
Use Cases: Remote worker protection in explosive zones
Related Devices: View Smart-Ex 02 DZ1
4. Fielda
Best for: Custom digital inspections and audits
Key Features:
Drag-and-drop form builder
GPS-tagged reports and timestamped photos
Dashboard analytics for compliance and performance tracking
Certifications: Compatible with i.safe MOBILE IS530.1 smartphone
Use Cases: Safety inspections, operational audits, environmental monitoring
Related Devices: Check out IS530.1 Smartphone
5. i.safe MOBILE App Suite
Best for: All-in-one field operations management
Key Features:
GPS, messaging, document sharing, barcode scanning
Seamlessly integrated into certified i.safe hardware
Tailored to meet industrial communications and task tracking
Certifications: Runs natively on i.safe MOBILE IS530.1 and IS930.1 devices
Use Cases: Pharmaceuticals, logistics, mining, manufacturing
Related Devices: Browse i.safe MOBILE Products
Comparison Table
| Software | Certifications | Features | Use Case | Compatible Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fat Finger | ATEX, Class I Div 1 | Workflow automation, inspections | Oil & Gas, Utilities | IS930.1 Tablet |
| ServiceMax Go | Class I Div 1 Compatible | FSM, digital forms, offline support | Field Maintenance | Sonim XP8 |
| eSENTINEL | ATEX Zone 1, IECEx | Lone worker alerts, GPS tracking | Remote Worker Safety | Smart-Ex 02 DZ1 |
| Fielda | Certified device support | Custom forms, audit trails, analytics | Compliance, Audits | IS530.1 Smartphone |
| i.safe MOBILE Suite | ATEX, IECEx | Comms, scanning, GPS, documentation | General Industrial Field Use | i.safe MOBILE Devices |
Best Software by Industry Use Case
| Industry | Recommended Software | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Oil & Gas | Fat Finger | Tailored safety workflows, form automation |
| Utilities | ServiceMax Go | Reliable FSM and offline work management |
| Chemical Processing | i.safe MOBILE Suite | Barcode scanning and asset tracking |
| Mining | eSENTINEL | Real-time GPS and lone worker monitoring |
| Pharmaceuticals | Fielda | Audit-ready digital inspection forms |
Not sure which software or device is right for your team? Talk to our intrinsically safe experts today →
FAQs
What makes software intrinsically safe?
Software is considered intrinsically safe-compatible if it is designed to run within the power and processing limits of certified devices used in explosive environments.
Can I use standard Android apps on intrinsically safe phones?
Only if they meet the performance and safety requirements of the certified device. It’s best to use apps optimized or approved by the device manufacturer.
Do these software solutions work offline?
Yes. Most intrinsically safe software platforms support full offline use with automatic data synchronization once connectivity is restored.
Can I customize workflows or inspection forms?
Platforms like Fat Finger and Fielda allow you to build custom forms, inspections, and reports using intuitive drag-and-drop or no-code interfaces.
Do I need specialized devices for these apps?
Yes. These platforms must be installed on intrinsically safe certified hardware such as the IS530.1, IS930.1, Sonim XP8, or ECOM Smart-Ex 02 DZ1. Browse compatible devices here.
Conclusion
The right intrinsically safe software doesn’t just enhance your field team’s productivity—it can help save lives, prevent fines, and ensure full compliance in the most hazardous industrial environments. From field inspections to lone worker safety, the platforms discussed above offer proven, scalable solutions tailored for certified mobile hardware.
