Section

health, safety and environment

hand injuries
Hand injuries are the most common injuries on rigs. Always be aware of potential squeeze points and
assess all activities carefully before commencing the work.

fire
The mud engineer should be aware of the specific fire fighting systems of the rig, location of the muster
points and evacuation procedures.
Ensure that all heating and electrical equipment in the mud lab is in good condition and can be
operated in a safe manner. Ensure that the lab has two exits and is equipped with an appropriate fire
extinguisher.
Ensure that materials are stored as per MSDS instructions to minimise the danger of fire and that the
required fire fighting equipment available and operational. Not only is fire lethal, but it may generate
toxic smoke from drilling fluid products.
If a fire is found raise the alarm, and only attempt to fight the fire with the available fire fighting equipment, if you have been trained in its use and as long as this will not result in personal injury.

stepback 5 x 5

Before you start any job take 5 steps back from the work area and invest a few minutes to step through
the work in your mind.
Before the Job:
Stop and think.
Observe the work area and surroundings.
Think through the steps of what you will be doing.
Identify what is happening today in your area.
Identify any hazards.
Develop methods for eliminating and controlling these hazards.
Satisfy yourself that the hazards are controlled before starting the job.
During the Job:
Do you feel safe doing the job?
Are others around you working safely?
Repeat the steps above if you encounter an unexpected problem.
After the job:
Observe the work area.
Take action to control any hazards that may have been created because of the job.
Reflect on the job performed.
Can any improvements be made?
Discuss these improvements at tour and safety meetings.

STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU ACT

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