GEAX
s.r.l.
Chapter 3
DRILLING RIG WORKSITE OPERATIONS
12
The suspended load should never come into contact with the rig itself, to
prevent either or both from being damaged or dangerously tangled to each
other. When lifting a load, the cab operator should bear in mind that once the
load gets off the ground it might begin to sway and injure the ground operator.
For that reason loads should be completely lifted only for a short time and
only when absolutely necessary for the work being carried out.
The weight of the load must be within the winch’s carrying capacity. The load
limits are shown in Par. 6.4.1. Is absolutely forbidden to use the mast
movements to increase the winch 2 lifting capacity.
3.8. Working in bad weather
3.8.1
Lightning
The drilling rig’s metal structure provides intrinsic protection
for the operator at the controls (like an automobile). The risks
for the ground operator are generally greater, especially
during operations involving the auxiliary winch. Blasts of air caused by
lightning striking the rig can cause a dangerous loss of balance to assistants
working nearby. Suspend rig operations until the lightning hazard is over.
3.8.2
Wind
The hazards caused by wind are also greater for the
ground operator. Halt operations if the wind is strong
enough to compromise the ground operator’s balance or
cause dangerous oscillations when using the auxiliary winch.
3.9 Visibility
3.9.1
Poor visibility due to fog
In case of fog, work can continue provided the field of vision of both
the cab operator and ground operator is wide enough not to
increase the risk factors.
More specifically:
•
The cab operator should be able to see the area in where the ground
operator is working.
•
The cab operator should be able to see a sufficient space around the
rig in order to avoid hitting objects during operations.