WorldWide Drilling Resource

--- *+ )#)('-()$* !(& )(%#'" +)""+ ,'.*,+ -'"/ 0 . 1 1 1 1 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® 7 OCTOBER 2017 Mast Safety Tips Adapted from Information by the International Association of Drilling Contractors When raising and lowering your rig’s mast, it is important to make sure no material is under the mast leg. The crown end of mast should be kept up, level with the substructure, to decrease strain on the mast on the initial lift. In addition to following all manufacturer’s recommendations, here are some additional tips: 9 Check to make sure the deadline is tied down and secured with adequate clamps as recom- mended by the anchor manufacturer. 9 There should ALWAYS be a complete visual check of the mast before it goes up. Ensure there are no loose bolts, tools, bars, or drift pins which were left without a safety bolt in them to prevent them from working loose. Check the derrick for gravel or rocks which may have gotten onto the cross beams while they were on the ground. 9 Keep tong counterbalances tied in the down position so they don’t drop and become damaged when the mast is near vertical. 9 Be sure the derrick board is properly secured and there’s no material which may fall when the board sets in place. 9 The derrick escape device should be in place, and the line must be properly secured to the mast before raising it. 9 All rig floor winch lines, tong hanger lines, etc., should be secure to prevent them from getting tangled with the blocks as the mast is raised. 9 Other than personnel at the brake, all other crewmembers should be a safe distance from the rig floor and the mast. No one should be under the mast or substructure as the mast is raised. 9 It’s a good idea to have two people at the brake in case the person at the brake needs assis- tance. 9 Never, at any time should there be anyone on the mast while it is being hoisted. Always wait until the mast has come to complete rest before putting the pins in place. 9 Traveling blocks should be used when moving the mast. 9 Visually check all toggles and cables. Make sure to thoroughly grease all sheaves to assure free movement for all cables.