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Summary

Date of Incident:

August 2024 

Incident: 

Dropped Objects Third Party Equipment

Incident Description: 

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in DROPS (Dropped Objects) incidents on drilling rigs, significantly raising the potential for Serious Injuries or Fatalities (SIFs) on drilling sites.

  • A high percentage of DROPS incidents involve third party equipment on drilling rigs. In some cases, it is the inability to secure the overhead equipment that is brought to site.
  • As the wellbore complexity increases, multiple contractors and equipment is required to complete the operations of drilling the well, specifically during casing operations.
  • Faster well completion driven by advanced drilling technologies, programs and equipment results in more frequent overhead installations and removals of equipment, elevating the exposure of dropped objects.

Awareness Items:

  • Review and reinforce DROPS prevention protocols with all personnel, including third-party employees.
  • Conduct pre-job planning and hazard identification with all third-party equipment prior to use.
  • Ensure proper inspection and securing of overhead tools and equipment prior to raising them.
  • Promote a culture of accountability and shared responsibility between all parties on site.
  • Verify that the proper procedures are available and that they comply with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) recommendations.

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