Setting Up the Rig Floor and Mast or Derrick
Potential Hazards
- Slipping, tripping, or falling during rigging-up activities due to uneven surfaces, loose materials, poor housekeeping, or changing work areas.
- Falling from the rig floor or elevated work surfaces when guardrails are not installed or fall protection is not properly used.
- Being struck by swinging or shifting equipment during lifting, positioning, or pinning operations.
Numerous hazards exist on the rig floor and mast during rig-up operations.
- Being struck by falling tools, equipment, or materials that are not properly secured during mast or derrick assembly.
- Being crushed or struck by equipment due to hoisting equipment failure, improper rigging, or overloading beyond rated capacity.
- Becoming entangled in drilling lines, cables, or guy lines during mast or derrick raising operations.
- Failure to properly install or maintain the derrick emergency escape device, limiting safe egress in an emergency.
Possible Solutions
- Install, inspect, and securely fasten all stairs, handrails, and guardrails before allowing routine access to the rig floor.
- Never use guardrails as anchor points or for lifting, pulling, or supporting loads.
- Use appropriate fall protection systems, such as personal fall arrest systems, when installing or removing guardrails or working at unprotected edges.
- Use tag lines to guide loads and equipment, rather than positioning yourself beneath or near suspended loads.
- Inspect the derrick or mast for unsecured tools, loose materials, or temporary equipment before raising it.
- Allow only the designated operator responsible for raising the mast or derrick to remain on the rig floor during lifting operations.
- Uncoil, lay out, and secure all lines and cables so they are clear of personnel and equipment when the mast or derrick is raised.
- Attach safety lines or lanyards to all tools and equipment that are suspended or stored at elevation.
- Maintain a safe distance from moving or suspended equipment at all times.
- Install the derrick emergency escape device correctly and inspect it in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations before use.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-5. What should you do when guiding hoisted loads?
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