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903 Well Site Completion and Servicing Safety
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Pumping

In this phase of the cementing process, a high-pressure pump is used to force cement down the casing and into the annular space between the casing and the wall of the borehole.

Potential Hazards

  • being struck by high-pressure lines or unexpected release of pressure (due to, mismatched or excessively worn hammer unions, line failure)
  • being exposed to chemical hazards (such as, silica, toxic liquids, and gases)
  • being exposed to high noise levels
  • slips, trips, and falls
  • overexerting, or receiving sprains and strains while handling materials (such as sacks and buckets)

Possible Solutions

  • Direct all non-essential personnel to stand clear.
  • Require pump operator to stay by the controls.
  • Conduct adequate pressure tests on pump(s) and lines before pumping.
  • Hobble high-pressure lines properly to guard against the failure of hose connections .
  • Use proper equipment inspection techniques to include hammer unions.
  • Wear proper personal protective equipment (for example, respiratory, skin, and hearing) as appropriate for the hazards present.
  • Conduct a pre-job inspection to identify, then eliminate or correct hazardous work surfaces.
  • Use mechanical lifting aids, proper lifting techniques, and team lifting where appropriate.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-8. During the cement pumping process, what are the hazards associated with handling materials such as sacks and buckets?