Saudi Aramco

Drilling & Workover Organization

May 2021
The Alerts are provided to all Drilling and Workover Operations Foremen and Liaisonmen so that we all learn from the
experiences of others. The knowledge of this incident could prevent similar ones from happening in the future.
Saudi Aramco policy requires the information in this Alert to be communicated to all crew members and documented on
morning reports.

What happened?
While drilling through a hard formation the Top Drive stabbing guide front part
(13.6 kg) fell from 15ft onto the rotary table area. No personnel were present in the
red zone as area was barricaded off as rough / high vibration drilling conditions had
been highlighted in the game plan with safety precautions put in place.
Consequences:

 Operation interruption.
 Potential for serious injury.


Why did it happen?

 Stabbing guide bolts were sheared.
 Secondary retention was installed
incorrectly.
 NOV Safety alert issued in 2013 and 2014 not followed by rig.
What should be done to prevent recurrence?

 Safety securing sling was installed on the front half-moon stabbing guide.
 Contractor shall verify that secondary retention for stabbing guide is
installed as per NOV Safety Alerts.
 Perform full DROPS inspection.
 Continue to enforce Red Zone areas.
 Conduct thorough DROPS inspections prior to hard formation / high
vibration drilling zones.

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

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