We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

903 Well Site Completion and Servicing Safety
Skip to main content

Repairing Liners and Casing

Liners and casing are essentially the same and repair procedures are the same for both. Casing can be damaged by corrosion, abrasion, pressure, or other forces that create holes or splits.

A packer is run down the well to locate the hole in the casing. Fluid, usually salt water or oil, but sometimes mud, is pumped into the casing above the packer. A packer is a piece of downhole equipment that consists of a sealing device, a holding or setting device, and an inside passage for fluids.

A loss of pressure indicates a hole in the casing.

Potential Hazards

  • getting pinched fingers and hands from tongs and slips
  • being struck by swinging tubing and tubing elevators
  • getting caught between the joint and tongs or stump
  • being struck by the tubing hanger wrench if it should slip
  • getting fingers and hands pinched and caught between tubing hanger and tubing head

Possible Solutions

  • Keep all fingers and hands away from pinch points.
  • Instruct workers to be on alert when on the rig floor and pipe racking area.
  • Avoid placing hands on the end of the tubing stump.
  • Use the correct tools for each task.
  • Inspect the tools before use.
  • Use coiled tubing.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

7-2. According to the text, what may a loss of pressure in a hole indicate?