IADC KSAs

Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies

For Roustabout
8 November 2015
Purpose of the KSAs
The IADC Workforce Development Committee created the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) competencies to assist the
drilling industry in setting a globally recognized and accepted baseline level of knowledge, skills, and abilities for rig-based
positions. The competencies represent the baseline KSAs recommended by the Workforce Development Committee based on job
position and incorporated Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) components.
Interested parties are encouraged to utilize the KSAs as the framework for designing training, developing employee career
progression pathways, creating competence assurance programs, and implementing any method deemed appropriate for enhancing
operational integrity. The KSAs are recommendations and KSA accreditation by IADC is not expressed or implied.
Disclaimer
The KSAs are of a general nature and do not encompass all position responsibilities, operating procedures, circumstances, laws, or
regulations that may apply. Individual companies may have KSAs that differ from the KSAs provided in this database. IADC
makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee in connection with the KSAs or their instructions, and hereby expressly disclaims
any liability or responsibility for loss or damage of any kind or nature resulting from the use of this product or its instructions, or
for any violation of any law or regulation with which these products may conflict, address, or impact.
(Standard IADC KSA Matrix)
The following is the IADC competency listing based on the following selections:

Onshore | Roustabout
Prepared for DALMA Gulf Drilling_ KSA

Competency Unit
1. CO 02-Rigger Basics
25 competencies

Knowledge / Skill / Ability

Core

Demonstrate ability to use all rigging hitches (e.g., basket, choker, vertical, bridle) needed
for the current job.1181

Demonstrate adhering to the permit-to-work for routine and non-routine rigging tasks, if
applicable.1186

Demonstrate correct and safe use of taglines attached to loads, including proper
positioning and quantity.1192

Demonstrate following the lift plan required for critical lift rigging tasks. 1196
Demonstrate how to correctly rig a load according to its specific center of gravity. 1198
Demonstrate the ability to control an area where lifting operations are being carried out.1251
Demonstrate the ability to correctly and safely connect/disconnect loads. 1253
Demonstrate the ability to correctly secure cargo in various conditions. 1255
Demonstrate the ability to find the center of gravity of a load.1256
Demonstrate the ability to select the appropriate rigging equipment for a specific job. 1260
Demonstrate the use of sling capacity tables.1266
Determine and/or estimate weight of loads for the purpose of rigging safely. 1288
Explain center of gravity as it relates to rigging.1294
Explain D/d ratio for wire rope sling.1298
Explain how the tension or loading increases as sling angles decrease, especially the rapid
increase in tension that occurs when slings are used below 30 degrees. 1302

Explain the different methods in which a slings are rigged or attached to load. 1338
Explain the importance of the eye of a synthetic web and why it should never be used or
forced over a hook or pin.1356
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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015

Explain the risk of using wire rope clips (i.e., clamps) to fabricate wire rope slings eyes.1373
Explain vertical and horizontal planes as they relate to rigging (e.g., how force is
distributed based on the plane).1379

Explain why a wire rope hand-tucked splice should not be used in a single vertical lift.1381
Explain why the chain sling must never be used when twisted, knotted, or whenever the
links bind and do not move freely.1385

Explain why the eye of a wire rope sling should never be forced over a hook or pin. 1386
Explain why the hook should not be inserted into one of the chain links.1387
Locate company policies and procedures that apply to rigging.1401
Select correct slings, or other similar lifting devices, according to size, weight, and
configuration.1407
2. CO 03-General Rigger
Qualifications and Role
1 competencies

Core

3. CO 19-CompanySpecific Crane Ops

Policies & Procedures
1 competencies

Core

4. CO 20-General
Housekeeping/
Orderliness
2 competencies

Core

Explain the basic riggers role in ensuring safe lifting operations.1328

Explain why the hook should not be inserted into one of the chain links.1388

Demonstrate cleaning and organizing the work area upon completion of the work, task, or
repairs.1190

Explain procedures personnel should follow if they observe worksite and water pollutants
during lifting operations.1321
5. DL71-Hoisting/ Rig
Floor: Utility Winches
1 competencies

Core

6. QHSE 07-Station
Bill/Emergency
Response Plan and
Emergency Drills

Core

5 competencies

Demonstrate correct hand signals associated with operating utility winch.767

Demonstrate the ability to perform the assigned duties as per the station bill/emergency
response plan.290

Demonstrate the correct donning, doffing and stowing of emergency PPE. 302
Describe all the emergency alarm sounds as well as the respective actions to take (H2S,
Well Control, Fire Alarm, Abandon Alarm, Gas Alarm).328

Describe and identify the location of your muster point(s).333

Describe the process to search and rescue personnel unaccounted for in an emergency
situation.397

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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015
7. QHSE 08-Emergency
Preparedness and
Response
7 competencies

Core

Demonstrate the assigned duties to be carried out during various emergencies/drills (for
example: Fire Drill, Abandon Drill, Gas Drill, Man Overboard Drill, Man Down, Stability
Drill, Well Control Drill, SOPEP Drill, Helpdesk Fire Drill, Blackout Drill). 300

Demonstrate the proper recording and completion of all emergency response training and
drills.

316

Describe and identify the escape routes, markings, signage systems and lighting systems as
applicable.

331

Describe and identify the location of all emergency alarm actuators.332

Describe how to react to well control situations and how often well control drills are
conducted. 339

Describe the rig (unit) emergency response abandonment and notification procedures. 408
Explain the assigned duties to be carried out during various emergencies/drills (for
example: Fire Drill, Abandon Drill, Gas Drill, Well Control Drill,). 462

8. QHSE 10-Permit To
Work (PTW)/ Energy
Isolations/ L.O.T.O.
8 competencies

Core

Demonstrate control and execution of energy isolation.272

Describe a scenario where electrical/ mechanical isolations are required.325
Describe all precautions that must be in place for working over open water.327
Describe the objectives of energy isolation and why precautions are important. 381
Explain how electrical/mechanical isolation would be confirmed safe to work on.

448

Explain the types of energy sources that could be released at the site and the precautions
that need to be in place.

547

Additional

Describe what constitutes a critical lift and all the precautions that must be in place.

427

Describe what is classified as Cold Work, provide some examples and explain the
precautions that should be taken prior to commencing.430
9. QHSE 12-General
Housekeeping/
Orderliness
10 competencies

Core

Demonstrate the ability to secure the current work area or operation before evacuating
during an emergency or drill.294

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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015

Demonstrates ability to ensure that the work area is clean and orderly, prior to and upon
completion of the work, task or repairs.323

Demonstrates ability to maintain and inspect hand and power tools in operationally safe
condition, without any unauthorized modifications.324

Explain the hazards associated with using defective or modified hand or power tools. 488
Explain the importance of closing out hazardous work activities before evacuating the area
for an emergency or drill.495

Explain the importance of good housekeeping practices in the work areas and living
quarters.498

Explain why it is important to keep tools put away and the work place clean in case of an
emergency. 572

Explain your role in the housekeeping practices in the work areas and living quarters.583
Demonstrate cleaning and organizing the work area upon completion of the work, task, or
repairs.1189

Explain procedures personnel should follow if they observe worksite and water pollutants
during lifting operations.1320
10. QHSE 16-Waste
Segregation
5 competencies

Core

Describe the company waste management plan.349

Describe the waste materials (either solid or liquid), and identify/categorize as one of the
following: common waste, industrial waste, hazardous waste and recyclable materials.425

Describe what materials should be placed into the waste containers and why they need to
be segregated. 433

Explain the continuous improvement of waste handling on the unit/location. 472

Explain the waste containers provided for common waste, industrial waste, hazardous
waste and recyclable materials.551
11. QHSE 17-Dropped
Objects Prevention
7 competencies

Core

Describe the hazards associated while work is being conducted overhead.

369

Describe the main hazard areas/zones where dropped objects may occur. 377
Explain how potential dropped objects are identified and how they should be reported. 450
Explain how the restricted areas/zones are enforced.

452

Explain precautionary measures required to avoid causing dropped objects and to protect
personnel from those potential hazards.457

Explain the importance of a daily/weekly/monthly/annual dropped objects prevention

inspection program.492

Explain why access should be restricted to all known dropped object areas/zones. 568
12. QHSE 19-Fall

Core

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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015

Demonstrate the ability to find the fall arrest or restraint gear/equipments information
tag.282

Demonstrate the ability to select the proper size and type as well as the donning of, and
correct usage of fall arrest gear.297

Demonstrate transferring from one location to another while maintaining 100 percent tie
off while working at heights.321

Describe the difference between fall arrest and fall restraint.356

Describe the emergency equipment and procedures (rescue plan) when rescuing someone
at heights.359

Describe the general requirements of the fall protection.366

Describe the limitations and the common misuse of fall arrest and restraint equipment.375
Describe the management of defective fall arrest equipment.380
Describe the proper maintenance, cleaning, inspection (including documentation) and
storage of fall arrest equipment.401

Describe the proper use of ladders (fixed and portable) or scaffolds. 404
Describe the proper work procedures and communication using fall protection while
working in an aerial lift platform (man-lift/work basket).406

Describe the proper work safety rules, procedures and precautions while using fall
protection over water including the stand by vessel.407

Describe the types of fall protection and fall arrest gear/equipment and how it is used. 421
Explain the different types of fall protection and fall arrest systems and how each of them
work.475

Explain the importance of maintaining the proper overhead anchorage point 501
13. QHSE 20-Safe Use
Of Lifting Equipment
17 competencies

Core

Explain who is authorized to operate lifting equipment. 271

Demonstrate proper hand and body placement when attaching the rigging to a load.277
Demonstrate the ability to properly operate lifting equipment.291
Demonstrate the ability to select the correct lifting equipment for the task at hand. 295
Demonstrate the proper use of tag lines attached to loads including proper positioning.
Demonstrate the verbal communications and hand signals used in lifting operations.

318

320

Describe the basic work sequence/policy and precautions that must be in place prior to
making a critical lift.

346

Describe the maintenance, storage and inspection of all lifting equipment

(rigging/slings/shackles etc.). 379

Describe the proper installation and rigging of all permanent and temporary lifting points
(anchor points, pad eyes etc.).

400

Describe the proper use of tag lines attached to loads including proper positioning and
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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015
quantity.

405

Describe the verbal communications and hand signals used in lifting operations. 424
Explain proper hand and body placement when attaching the rigging to a load. 458
Explain the importance of a spotter during blind lifting operations.

493

Explain the minimum number of personnel and special precautions to be used during
critical lifting operations.511

Explain the pre-lift plan and inspections process.518

Explain the responsibilities of a rigger (banksman).
Explain what constitutes a critical lift.
14. QHSE 21-Lifting of
Personnel
4 competencies

539

558

Core

Demonstrate the ability to properly utilize personnel lifting equipment.

292

Demonstrate the ability to select the proper personnel lifting equipment/device.

Describe safety precautions necessary for the use of personnel lifting devices.

296

344

Explain conditions, authority and hand signals necessary to stop personnel lifting
operations.
15. QHSE 23-Use and
maintenance of utility
winch
8 competencies

446

Core

Demonstrate rigging practices for safe lifting and movement of tubulars and irregular
shaped equipment/materials.278

Demonstrate the hand signals used during winch operations. 308

Demonstrate the operation of a utility winch.

310

Describe the operational and safety responsibilities of a winch operator.

382

Describe the specific locations where utility winches are installed on the unit.413
Explain rigging practices for safe lifting and movement of tubulars and irregular shaped
equipment/materials.459

Explain the capacity and limitations of utility winches. 464

Explain the required maintenance for a utility winch and accessories.
16. QHSE 26-Chemical
Handling & SDS
(MSDS) (GHS)
8 competencies

534

Core

Demonstrate selection and correct use of PPE when handling chemicals in accordance with
the SDS.

280

Describe appropriate actions necessary in the event of exposure/contact with chemicals or

spill.334

Describe the health and environmental risks associated with chemicals used at the work
site.370

Describe the information contained in a SDS.373

Describe the storage and segregation process for chemicals.

416

Explain the minimum requirements for labeling, documentation and packing of chemicals.
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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015
512

Explain what NORM is, where NORM occurs and explain the precautions to be taken to
prevent exposure.560

Explain where Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are located.

17. QHSE 27-Equipment
Safety
5 competencies

563

Core

Describe and give examples of various equipment guards and their purpose.330
Explain the hazards and precautions of working around moving (dynamic) equipment. 484
Explain the hazards and precautions of working around rotating equipment. 485
Explain the hazards and precautions to take when working with or near low or high
pressurized equipment.486

Explain the importance of ensuring that proper fittings (hammer unions/quick

connect/hydraulic fittings) are being used in piping, hoses and equipment. 496
18. QHSE 28-Welding
and Cutting
2 competencies

Additional

Demonstrate the ability to identify the contents of compressed gas cylinders by using
labels, tags or markings.

283

Explain the correct procedures for storing gas cylinders.473

19. QHSE 29-Personal
Protective Equipment
(PPE)
4 competencies

Core

Demonstrate the proper selection and usage (donning/doffing) of PPE.

317

Describe different types of PPE, appropriate selection, proper usage and its limitations for
various work tasks.

335

Describe the proper maintenance/care and storage of PPE in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions.402

Explain your responsibility and the importance of wearing PPE that is appropriate for the
work-task. 579
20. QHSE 30-Manual
Handling/ Ergonomics/
Posture
8 competencies

Core

Demonstrate how to support a load when walking with various size loads.274
Demonstrate the ergonomic posture to take when physically lifting and setting a load. 307
Describe when mechanical lifting is preferred to manual lifting and why. 434
Describe where the force is concentrated on the spine when improperly lifting or setting a
load.435

Explain the companys policy and procedures on the manual handling/lifting of

materials.468

Explain the importance of planning your path of movement prior to lifting and carrying a
load.502

Explain the proper manual lifting or setting techniques to prevent back injuries as well as
the benefits of using mechanical lifting devices.529
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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015

Explain the value of manually testing a load before attempting to lift the load. 550
21. QHSE 31-Confined
Space Entry
13 competencies

Core

Describe what constitutes a confined space entry.426

Explain how environmental conditions can negatively impact working in a confined
space.449

Explain the companys policy on confined space entry.470

Explain the hazards associated with a confined space.487
Explain the importance of using atmospheric monitoring equipment in a confined space. 504
Explain the procedures to take before entering a confined space. 521
Explain the procedures to take upon entering a confined space.522
Explain the required PPE needed when working in a confined space. 536
Explain what a competent person is in the context of regulatory standards covering
confined space entry.554

Explain what a qualified person is in the context of regulatory standards covering confined
space entry.556

Explain what and how to identify a confined space and give some examples on your
worksite.557

Explain why it is important to continually monitor the atmosphere of a confined space.571

Explain your role and responsibility during a confined space rescue operation. 580
22. QHSE 33-Fire
Prevention, Fire
Fighting and Fire
Control and Gas/Fire
Detection Equipment
18 competencies

Core

Demonstrate how to use the foam systems at the helideck and other manual fixed fire
systems. 275

Demonstrate the use of portable fire extinguishers.319

Describe the automatic deluge systems on the unit including how it is activated. 345
Describe the companys policies and procedures for fire prevention. 352
Describe the different fixed fire systems on the unit and the areas where they are found. 357
Describe the different types of portable fire extinguishers and their applications (Water,
Carbon Dioxide and Dry Chemical).358

Describe the engine shutdown procedure in the event of a gas release. 363
Describe the fire and gas detection systems, sensor locations and how they function. 364
Describe the fixed and/or portable systems used to detect the presence of Oxygen (O2),
Hydrocarbon (HC) and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) etc.

365

Describe the passive fire protection systems on the unit, including their location and
rating.384

Describe the process and documentation needed for inspecting and maintaining portable
fire extinguishers. 389
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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For Roustabout
8 November 2015

Describe the process for inspecting, maintaining, testing and calibrating the fire and gas
detection systems.393

Describe the testing and regulatory requirements for portable fire extinguishers. 417
Describe the three elements to complete the fire triangle.418
Describe the ventilation shutdown systems and how they are activated.423
Explain the fire team meeting location (muster point) during a fire event. 480
Explain the rig/unit emergency action (response) plan for a fire event. 540
Explain the use of portable fire extinguishers.549
23. TM-24-HVAC
1 competencies

Core

24. TM-25-Piping
1 competencies

Core

Describe the general hazards involved in handling refrigerants.2857

Identify and describe the potential hazards associated with water hammer and how
personnel and equipment may be affected.2961

25. TM-85-General
Alarm and Public
Address System
1 competencies

Core

26. TM-89-Fire and Gas

Systems
1 competencies

Core

Explain the internal communication system2460

Explain the difference between HC4 and H2S gas and how it affects rig operations.2447

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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For rig crews and rig supervisory personnel
8 November 2015
Competency Unit
Removed
CO 01-Crane Basics
3 Core competencies

Knowldege / Skill / Ability

Demonstrate ability to follow the permit-to-work and lockout/tagout procedures required for
crane operations.1178

Describe the lifting equipment available on current location.1278

Describe the type(s) of crane(s) by name and type, found on current location. 1286
CO 02-Rigger Basics
4 Core competencies

Explain the effect of beating the choker legs down.1340

Explain the effect of bringing the legs of a vertical basket hitch inwards. 1341
Explain the importance of using padding (protection over sharp edges). 1357
Explain the use of push poles, if required by company policy. 1376

CO 03-General Rigger
Qualifications and Role
3 Core competencies

Explain the basic riggers role in ensuring that all lifting gear is certified to company and
regulatory requirements.1329

Explain who at the jobsite is authorized to use rigging hardware. 1380

List the recommended qualifications, experience, and training necessary to be able to rig a
load (see API RP 1e, 2d, latest edition).1398
CO 4-General Rigging
HSE
2 Core competencies

Demonstrate ability to ensure that deck personnel use safe lifting procedures (e.g., tag lines,
escape routes).1177

Demonstrate correct use of personal protective equipment.1193

CO 5-Personnel-Lifting
Operations
5 Core competencies

Demonstrate how to properly utilize personnel lifting equipment.1206

Demonstrate how to select the proper personnel lifting equipment/device. 1210
Explain conditions, authority, and hand signals necessary to stop personnel lifting
operations.1296

Explain the importance of load balance, weight tolerances, and environmental conditions
before and during personnel transfer.1350

Explain the precautions and pre-lift requirements applicable before personnel are transferred
or lifted.1365

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IADC KSAs
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability Competencies
For rig crews and rig supervisory personnel
8 November 2015
QHSE 01-Induction
(Post-Hire Corporate
and Unit Specific)
7 Core competencies

Demonstrate immediate response during coordinated drills (Including your assigned Muster
Station(s) (if applicable).276

Explain assigned roles and responsibilities according to the Emergency Response Plans or
Station Bill.444

Explain the general duties of the Unit/Crew specific positions.

483

Explain your company's position in regard to compliance with regulatory requirements. ( for
applicable position )577

Explain your Company's specific Short Service Employee program. If applicable. 578
Identify and explain the various components of the Rig or Unit.585
Provide evidence of completion of the Corporate and Unit Specific Induction / Orientation
course.589
QHSE 02-Station
Bill/Emergency
Response Plan and

Identify the various site specific emergency equipment

QHSE 03-Behavioral
Based Safety System
(BBSS)
2 Core competencies

Demonstrate the process to record and track non conformities from BBSS Observations 312

QHSE 04-Lifting of
Personnel
4 Core competencies

Demonstrate the inspection of personnel lifting equipment.309

Describe the difference between an unsafe action/behavior and an unsafe condition. 355

Explain the importance of using load balance, weight tolerances, and environmental
conditions before and during personnel transfer.505

Explain the inspection of equipment necessary for lifting of personnel. 507

Explain the precautions and pre-lift requirements before personnel are transferred or lifted.
517

QHSE 05-Fire
Prevention, Fire
Fighting and Fire
Control and Gas/Fire
Detection Equipment
TM-81-Hazardous Areas
TM-86-Drilling Control
Added
QHSE 06-Permit To
Work (PTW)/ Energy
Isolations/ L.O.T.O.
2 Additional competencies
QHSE 07-Welding and
Cutting
2 Additional competencies

Describe the thresholds and the actions automatically initiated on detection of HC and / or
H2S. 419

Explain the different levels of shutdown associated with the unit (if applicable). 474
Explain the difference of working on equipment in hazardous vs. nonhazardous areas. 2448
Explain the interaction of drill floor equipment for safe operations.2457
Describe what constitutes a critical lift and all the precautions that must be in place.

427

Describe what is classified as Cold Work, provide some examples and explain the
precautions that should be taken prior to commencing.430

Demonstrate the ability to identify the contents of compressed gas cylinders by using labels,
tags or markings.

283

Explain the correct procedures for storing gas cylinders.473

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