Module 4: Safety & Risk Management in Diamond Drilling

1. Advanced Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment

Proactive hazard recognition and systematic risk evaluation are critical to preventing accidents in diamond drilling operations.

Key Aspects of Hazard Identification:

• Site-Specific Hazards:

• Unstable ground conditions (subsidence, loose overburden)

• Overhead power lines or underground utilities

• Extreme weather (high winds, lightning, extreme temperatures)

• Equipment-Related Hazards:

• Hydraulic leaks leading to high-pressure fluid injection risks

• Moving parts (rotating drill rods, hoisting equipment)

• Electrical hazards from damaged cables or improper grounding

• Human Factor Risks:

• Fatigue from long shifts leading to operational errors

• Insufficient training on new equipment or procedures

• Poor communication between crew members

Risk Assessment Methodology:

• Hierarchy of Controls:

• Elimination – Remove the hazard completely (e.g., relocate drill site away from power lines)

• Substitution – Replace hazardous materials/processes (e.g., less toxic drilling fluids)

• Engineering Controls – Machine guards, emergency stops

• Administrative Controls – Safety training, clear SOPs

• PPE – Last line of defense (hard hats, gloves, etc.)

• Risk Matrix Application:

• Evaluate likelihood (probable/remote) vs. consequence (minor/catastrophic)

• Prioritize mitigation for high-risk scenarios (e.g., high-pressure blowouts)

2. Emergency Response Procedures

Predefined protocols ensure rapid, effective reactions to critical incidents.

Stuck Rod Recovery:

• Preventative Measures:

• Maintain proper hole cleaning to prevent cuttings accumulation

• Avoid sudden changes in RPM or feed pressure in sticky formations

• Extraction Techniques:

• Apply steady torque with gradual increase (avoiding pipe twist-off)

• Use vibration tools or shock loads to free jammed rods

• As last resort: Backream or abandon portion of drill string

Blowout Prevention & Control:

• Early Warning Signs:

• Sudden increase in return fluid flow

• Unusual pump pressure fluctuations

• Immediate Actions:

• Shut in well using blowout preventer (BOP) if equipped

• Kill well by pumping weighted fluid

• Evacuate non-essential personnel upwind

• Contingency Planning:

• Maintain updated well control manuals onsite

• Regular BOP function testing (weekly for critical operations)

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

A tiered PPE system addresses varying risk levels across different tasks.

Mandatory Base-Level PPE:

• Head Protection: Hard hats (ANSI Z89.1) with chin straps in high-wind areas

• Eye/Face Protection:

• Safety glasses for general work

• Face shields when handling chemicals or grinding

• Hearing Protection:

• Earplugs (NRR 25+) for continuous noise >85 dB

• Earmuffs for intermittent high-noise tasks

• Hand Protection:

• Cut-resistant gloves for rod handling

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile/neoprene) for fluid mixing

Specialized PPE for High-Risk Tasks:

• Fall Arrest Systems: When working atop mast (>1.8m/6ft elevation)

• Respiratory Protection:

• N95 masks for silica dust exposure

• SCBA for confined space entry or H2S risk

• High-Visibility Clothing: Near mobile equipment or low-light conditions

4. Safe Handling of Drilling Fluids & Chemicals

Proper management prevents health hazards and environmental damage.

Chemical Hazard Mitigation:

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS):

• Maintain current SDS for all chemicals onsite

• Train crew on emergency first aid measures (e.g., eye flush stations)

• Storage & Handling Protocols:

• Segregate incompatible chemicals (acids vs. alkalis)

• Secondary containment for bulk fluid storage

• Grounding straps when transferring flammable additives

Environmental Protection Measures:

• Containment Systems:

• Drip pans under fluid transfer points

• Bermed storage areas (110% capacity)

• Spill Response Kits:

• Absorbent pads, booms, and neutralizers readily available

• Clearly marked cleanup stations near mixing areas

Health Monitoring:

• Exposure Limits Tracking:

• Regular air monitoring for silica, hydrocarbons, and toxic vapors

• Biomonitoring for crews handling heavy metals (e.g., barium additives)

• Hygiene Facilities:

• Handwash stations with pH-neutral cleaners

• Separate eating areas away from chemical zones

Conclusion

A robust safety program integrating advanced hazard analysis, emergency preparedness, proper PPE usage, and chemical management creates a culture of prevention. This systematic approach not only protects personnel but also enhances operational efficiency by minimizing costly disruptions from incidents.