Date of Incident:
May 2025
Incident:
Casing Running Tool (CRT) dropped to rig floor striking worker.
Incident Description:
On May 1, 2025, the rig crew and third-party casing crew were in the process of running casing. While running casing the CRT became disconnected, falling approximately 15 metres to the rig floor, fatally injuring a third-party worker.
Incident Details
The Casing Running Tool (CRT) and CRT crossover connection was made up, torqued, and visually verified on the rig floor during the rig up process with the day crew. The CRT was then set to the side of the rig floor until needed.
During the night shift, the crews finished running the first part of the tapered string and needed to switch elevators for the next size of casing.
At this point, the CRT / crossover assembly was connected to the top drive and the torque was visually verified. Next, a pull test was conducted to verify installation of the CRT before continuing to run casing using only the elevators.
Approximately 4 hours later, while running casing, the CRT became disconnected at the connection point between the CRT and the CRT crossover. The CRT weighing approximately 760 lbs. fell approximately 15 meters fatally injuring a third-party worker on the rig floor.
What must be done to prevent this happening again?
- Verify that the crossover for the CRT is torqued to the recommended specifications.
- Visual confirmation - A chalk line or paint line should be placed on all connections above the CRT as a visual for the connection. Visually inspect chalk lines with cameras or at regular inspection intervals.
- Engage CRT and perform pre-job pull /torque test as outlined in the JSA. After releasing the CRT from the pull/torque test, visually inspect chalk/paint line on overhead connections to ensure no movement has occurred.
- Equipment Design or Installation: Install anti-rotation device to prevent unexpected tool joint backoff of the crossover or tether system to prevent drop incident when CRT is being used intermittently.
- Operator Awareness & Training: Educate workers about danger areas with overhead equipment.
- Minimize the number of crossovers from the CRT to the top drive.
- Consult the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications for additional detail.