f. High noise level areas should be identified and hearing protection worn
where necessary.
g. Where engine noise or other sounds prohibit verbal communication, a clear
set of signals which are clearly understood and known by each team member
should be used. This will also apply when ear defenders are worn.
h. It should be ensured that the winch operator has a clear view of men
operating equipment at all times.
1.5.6 DRILLING OPERATIONS - ROTARY
a. The foundation for the drill rig should be solid and level and capable of
withstanding the full thrust to be applied.
b. Where the rig is positioned above ground level an adequate set of steps with
handrails should be provided to give access to the working platform.
c. The equipment should always be operated in a safe manner and in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
d. The rig should never be left unattended whilst drilling.
e. Relief valves should never be set above the manufacturer’s recommended
setting.
f. Care should be taken that operators keep hands and feet away from rods or
other tubulars passing through the guide table, and not to have hands or feet
in positions where they could get stuck.
g. When working on or near rods or tubulars, the driller should ensure that the
rotary drive mechanism is securely disengaged, and any hoisting winch is
securely engaged.
h. When hand tools, such as pipe tongs, wrenches, etc. are braced against the
drill frame and used against the drill rotary power as break-out tools, such
tools should be secured to the drill frame.
i. Hand wrenches should only be operated between chest and shoulder level.
j. Wrenches should never be applied to rods or casing which are rotating.
k. Great care should be taken when wrenches are used to loosen stuck rods. If
the wrench slips out of the hands, the spring of the rods could throw the
wrench with considerable force.
l. Hands should never be placed on wrenches where they can get trapped
between wrench and rig.
m. Ensure that wrenches are removed from rods before starting machines.
n. When breaking out rods, casing, etc. personnel should always stand in a safe
position in case rods drop or turn.
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