Rig Safety

Rig Safety

Drilling operations—whether rotary or percussion—are hazardous and require strict safety procedures. The following is a comprehensive guide to identifying risks and implementing preventive measures.

Common Hazard Sources

Equipment Startup Hazards:

Starting the motor without brakes set or gears engaged.

Starting the air compressor with the air tank valve closed.

Site Movement Hazards:

Moving the drill rig over rough terrain, steep slopes, or slippery/narrow roads.

Contacting overhead wires during transport.

Operational Errors Leading to Injury:

Contacting rotating drill pipe.

Operating hot drill pipe without gloves.

Standing in the drill pipe strike zone if the drill pipe breaks/sticks.

Climbing the rig during operation.

Leaving a completed borehole unattended.

Dropping drill pipe/reamer into the hole.

Operating the drill rig in an improper posture.

Working on moving machinery or wearing loose clothing.

Improper shutdown or leaving equipment in a hazardous area.

Other Complications

Hose failure (breakage, disconnection).

Drill rod falling from rig.

Unprotected or poorly grounded machinery.

Fire/dust hazards from neglected equipment.

Slips/falls due to poor maintenance.

Precautions

Equipment and Location

Guards: Ensure open gears, fans, belts and chains are guarded.

Drill Rig Placement: Avoid:

Unstable ground (loose clay, old rock fill).

Sloping rock surfaces or near live wires (<15 feet).

Hazardous weather or high traffic areas.

Pre-Shift Inspection:

Check air/water pressure gauges, pressure valves and hoses for damage.

Check dust control systems (for rotary drilling).

Maintenance and Procedures

Store flammable items in marked containers away from heat sources.

Keep workplace clean to prevent slips/falls.

Use designated ladders/stairs with handrails.

Ensure safety guards are functional and in place.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hardhats: Prevent head injuries (6% of industrial disabling injuries).

Safety glasses: Protect against flying debris.

Steel-toed shoes: Protect feet from heavy objects.

Proper clothing: Avoid entanglement in machinery.

Key Statistics

National Safety Council (1960-1965): 116,000 head injuries occur in industrial settings each year.

50% of accidents are preventable through training and vigilance.

Summary: Rigorous training, proactive hazard detection, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential to ensure safe drilling operations.