DRILLING SAFETY MANUAL

Version 1.1, December 2000

Illinois State Water Survey

2204 Griffith Drive
Champaign, IL 61820-7495

Derek Winstanley, Chief, 217/244-5459

 Illinois State Water Survey

Drilling Safety Manual

Table of Contents

Page

1. An Introduction to Drilling Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

2. Safety Supervisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
3. Individual Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
4. Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
5. Drilling Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
6. Housekeeping on and near the Drill Rig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
7. Maintenance Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
8. Safe Use of Hand Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
9. Clearing the Work Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
10. Start up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
11. Safety during Drilling Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
12. Overhead and Buried Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
13. Contact with Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
14. Safe Use of Wire Line Hoists, Wire Rope, and Hoisting Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
15. Safe Use of Augers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
16. Safety during Rotary and Core Drilling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
17. Safety during Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
18. Off-Road Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
19. Tires, Batteries, and Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
20. First Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
21. Drill Rig Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
22. Drill Rig Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
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Drilling Safety Manual

1. An Introduction to Drilling Safety

The ISWS considers health and safety standards an essential adjunct to efficient job
performance, ensuring that safe working conditions are maintained and that safe work practices are
followed in all activities. While safety is considered an integral part of all ISWS operations and
compliance with health and safety regulations are essential, the success or failure of the program
depends on the attitudes and actions of the people doing the work.

The driller is the designated safety supervisor and has the authority to enforce safety at the
drilling site. However, safety is also the responsibility of all persons working at the drilling site, and
they should respect the safety directions of the safety supervisor.

The Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) is interested in your safety, not only when you are
working on or around a drill rig, but also when you are traveling to and from a drilling site, moving
the drill rig and tools from location to location on site, or performing maintenance services on the
drill rig or drilling tools. This safety guide is for your benefit. Failure to adhere to safety guidelines
may result in disciplinary actions as outlined in the Internal Policy, Procedure and Information
Manual.

This drilling safety guide is furnished to each project principal investigator who engages
ISWS drilling services. The principal investigator should ensure that all project staff members
assisting the drilling crew have reviewed this safety guide.

The project principal investigator should obtain a list of addresses and telephone numbers
of emergency assistance units (ambulance services, police, hospitals, etc.) appropriate for each
project drilling site prior to the commencement of drilling operations.

2. Safety Supervisor

The safety supervisor must possess a valid State of Illinois license and/or a National
Drilling license.

C The safety supervisor for the drill crew is, in most cases, the drill rig operator, however the
Principal Investigator is always in charge of the project.

The safety supervisor should consider the "responsibility" for safety and the "authority" to
enforce safety to be a matter of first importance.
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The safety supervisor should use proper personal safety gear and set an example by
following the rules being enforced.

The safety supervisor should enforce the use of proper personal protective safety
equipment by all project staff and visitors and take appropriate corrective action when proper
personal protective safety equipment is not being used.

The safety supervisor should understand that proper maintenance of tools and equipment
and general "housekeeping" on the drill rig provide the best environment to promote and
enforce safety.

The safety supervisor should inspect the drill rig at least daily for structural damage,
loose nuts and bolts, proper tension in chain drives, loose or missing guards or protective
covers, fluid leaks, damaged hoses, and/or damaged pressure gauges and pressure relief
valves.

The safety supervisor should check that all gauges, warning lights, and control levers
function properly and that there are no unusual sounds each time an engine is started.

The safety supervisor should inform all new drill rig helpers, project staff members, and
visitors of safe operating practices on and around the drill rig.

The safety supervisor should carefully instruct a new drilling crew member in drilling
safety and observe the new worker's progress toward understanding safe operating practices.

The safety supervisor should dismiss any worker from the drill site whose conduct
may cause injury to the worker or coworkers.

The safety supervisor should ensure that the drill rig and the support vehicle each
contain a properly maintained first-aid kit and a properly maintained fire extinguisher. The
driller and drillers helper should possess American Red Cross First Aid certification
(including CPR training) and must complete a refresher course at least every three years.

The safety supervisor (and as many crew members as possible) should be well trained and
know how to use first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, and all other safety devices and equipment.

The safety supervisor should check that the project principal investigator has obtained a
list of local emergency assistance units prior to the start of drilling operations on site.
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3. Individual Protective Equipment

Unless otherwise required, individual protective equipment should include a safety hat (hard
hat), safety shoes, safety glasses (with side shields), and close fitting gloves and clothing.
Rings and jewelry should not be worn during a work shift. The ISWS will provide all
drilling personnel and visitors with required personal protective equipment.

Safety Head Gear. Everyone working or visiting a drilling site must wear safety hats (hard
hats). All safety hats should meet the requirements of the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) Z89.1. All safety hats should be kept clean and in good repair with the
headband and crown straps properly adjusted for the individual drill rig worker or visitor.

Safety Shoes or Boots. All drilling personnel and visitors must wear safety shoes or boots.
All safety shoes or boots must meet the requirements of ANSI Z41.1.

Gloves. All drilling personnel and visitors must wear appropriate gloves for protection
against cuts and abrasion that could occur while handling wire rope or cable and from
contact with sharp edges and burrs on drill rods and other drilling or sampling tools. All
gloves should be close fitting and without large cuffs or loose ties that can catch on rotating
or other moving components of the drill rig.

Safety Glasses. All drilling personnel must wear safety glasses (with side shields).
All safety glasses should meet the requirements of ANSI Z87.1.

Foul Weather Gear. The ISWS will provide all drilling personnel with gear for rain
and cold weather.

Other Protective Equipment. For some drilling operations, the environment or regulations
may dictate that additional protective equipment be used. The requirement for such
equipment must be determined jointly by the management of the drilling crew and the safety
supervisor. Such equipment may include face or ear protection or reflective clothing. Each
drill rig worker should wear noise-reducing ear protectors when appropriate. When drilling
in chemically or radiologically contaminated ground, drilling personnel should wear special
protective equipment and clothing if such equipment will contribute to safety. Additionally,
if a chemically contaminated site contains hazardous waste, the Occupational Health and
Safety Administration, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (OSHA,
HAZWOPER) requirements (29 CFR 1910.120) may apply. The design and composition
of the protective equipment and clothing will be determined jointly by management, the
drilling crew, and the project principal investigator who requests the drilling services.
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4. Visitors

C Project drilling site visitors (those individuals not associated with the project operations)
may observe drilling operations only with the consent of the safety supervisor or the
principal investigator or his/her representative.

C All such visitors must wear personal safety equipment and must remain at a safe distance
from drilling operations as directed by the safety supervisor.

5. Drilling Equipment

General. The drill rig should have platforms, steps, handholds, and guardrails to ensure safe
access and footing. Platform and deck surfaces should have a nonskid coating.

Control Levers. Labels clearly indicating the function and direction of the control
levers should be posted on the power unit controls of all drills.

Operator. Only authorized and qualified persons instructed in the operation of the
specific drill rig should operate the power unit.

Lubrication and Repair. Equipment should be shut down during manual lubrication
and while repairs or adjustments are being made.

Refueling. Internal combustion engines should be turned off during refueling. Where
practicable, the gasoline tank should be positioned or shielded to avoid accidental spillage
of fuel on the engine or exhaust manifold during refueling operations.

Unit Controls. Wherever practicable, operating unit controls should be designed to

return to neutral when the control levers are released.

Gears and Moving Parts. Gears and moving parts constituting a hazard to workers,
should be shielded to prevent accidental contact.

Fire Extinguishers. A dry chemical or carbon dioxide fire extinguisher, rated 5 pounds or
larger, should be carried on the unit and removed to a position within 25 feet of the work site
during drilling.

Exhaust Systems. Engine exhaust systems should be equipped with spark arresters
when operated in areas where sparks constitute a fire hazard.
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Preventive Maintenance. Safe operation and adequate maintenance requires an effective

preventive maintenance program. Water Survey personnel (driller and driller's helper)
assigned to drill rig operations should conduct periodic inspections at necessary intervals in
accordance with the drill rig manufacturers recommendations.

Safety Line. Truck-mounted drills should be equipped with a "Safety Line" or clearly
marked and conspicuously located emergency switches (panic buttons). The "Safety Line"
emergency stop consists of a taut wire that runs behind the machine and connects to a special
switch that turns off the power unit upon contact with the line. A minimum of two
emergency switches may be used in lieu of a "Safety Line": one switch within easy reach of
the operator and another located within easy reach of helpers at ground level near the drill
or auger head.

Truck Movement. In restricted or congested areas or areas where workers are located,
the assistance of a "spotter" is mandatory. Trucks should be equipped with serviceable
automatic backup alarms.

Raising Mast. Before raising the mast, check to ensure safe clearance from energized power
lines or equipment. Unsecured equipment should be removed from the mast before raising.
All winch cables must be adequately secured before raising the mast.

Securing Mast to Rig. After raising the mast, it should be secured to the rig in an upright
position with steel pins.

Moving Drill Equipment. Prior to moving drill equipment, the vehicle operator should make
a thorough inspection to ensure that the mast, drill rods, tools, and other supplies and
equipment are secured adequately to prevent displacement while in transit. Applicable traffic
laws should be observed while moving drill equipment over public roads. A check should
be made of steering mechanism, brakes, lights, load limits, and proper flagging or lighting
of load extensions.

6. Housekeeping on and near the Drill Rig

The first requirement for safe field operation is that the drilling crew understands
and fulfills the responsibility for maintenance and housekeeping on and near the drill rig.

Suitable storage locations should be provided for all tools, materials, and supplies so
that they can be conveniently and safely handled without hitting or falling on the drill crew
or a visitor.
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Tools, materials, or supplies should not be stored or transported within or on the mast
(derrick) of the drill rig.

Pipe, drill rods, casing, augers, and similar drilling tools should be stacked neatly on racks
or sills to prevent spreading, rolling, or sliding.

Penetration or other driving hammers should be placed in a safe location on the ground or
be secured to prevent movement when not in use.

Work areas, platforms, walkways, scaffolding, and other access ways should be kept
free of materials, debris, obstructions, and substances such as ice, grease, or oil that could
cause a surface to become slick or otherwise hazardous.

Scrap, waste material, and other debris should be collected and stored in piles or containers
for daily removal and disposal.

Keep all controls, control linkages, warning and operation lights, and lenses free of
oil, grease, and/or ice.

Store gasoline only in a nonsparking, red container with a flame arrester in the fill
spout and with the word gasoline easily visible.

Gasoline containers should be labeled and storage areas posted with No Smoking
signs. Foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical fire extinguishers should be installed in these
areas.

7. Maintenance Safety

Conducting maintenance work in a safe manner will make drilling operations safer.

Wear safety glasses (with side shields) when performing maintenance work on the
drill rig or on drilling tools.

Shut down the drill rig engine to make drill rig repairs or adjustments or to lubricate
fittings (except repairs or adjustments that can be made only with the engine running). Take
precautions to prevent accidental starting of an engine during maintenance by removing or
tagging the ignition key.

Always block the wheels or lower the leveling jacks, or both, and set hand brakes
before working under the drill rig.
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When possible and appropriate, release all pressure on the hydraulic systems, the drilling
fluid system, and the air pressure systems of the drill rig prior to performing maintenance.
In other words, reduce the drill rig and operating systems to a "zero energy state" before
performing maintenance. Use extreme caution when opening drain plugs, radiator caps, and
other pressurized plugs and caps.

Do not use gasoline or other volatile or flammable liquids as a cleaning agent on or

around the drill rig.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for applying the proper quantity and
quality of lubricants, hydraulic oils, and/or coolants.

Replace all caps, filler plugs, protective guards or panels, and high-pressure hose clamps and
chains or cables that have been removed for maintenance before returning the drill rig to
service.

8. Safe Use of Hand Tools

There are almost an infinite number of hand tools for use on or near the drill rig and in repair
shops, and each tool has instructions for proper use. "Use the tool for its intended purpose" is the
most important rule. The following are a few specific and some general suggestions that apply to
safe use of several hand tools often used on and near drill rigs.

When a tool becomes damaged, either repair it before using it again or dispose of it.

When using any kind of hammer or chisel for any purpose, wear safety glasses (with side
shields) and require all others around you to wear safety glasses (with side shields).

Keep all tools clean and neatly stored when not in use.

When not in use, do not leave tools on scaffolds, ladders, or overhead working spaces.
Containers should be provided to hold tools and prevent them from falling. Unguarded,
sharp edged, or pointed tools should not be carried in employee pockets.

Do not throw or drop tools from one level to another. Use containers and hand lines
to transport tools from one level to another.

Use nonsparking tools in areas where sources of ignition may cause a fire or explosion.

Electric-powered shop and hand tools should be double insulated and shockproof or
be effectively grounded.
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Keep all pipe wrenches clean and in good repair. Wire brush the jaws of pipe wrenches
frequently to prevent an accumulation of dirt and grease that would otherwise build up and
cause wrenches to slip.

Never use pipe wrenches in place of a rod-holding device.

Replace hook and heel jaws when they become visibly worn.

When breaking (loosening) tool joints on the ground or on a drilling platform, position your
hands so that your fingers will not be smashed between the wrench handle and the ground
or the platform, should the wrench slip or the joint suddenly let go.

9. Clearing the Work Area

Prior to drilling, perform adequate site clearing and leveling to accommodate the drill rig and
supplies and provide a safe working area. Do not begin drilling when tree limbs, unstable ground,
or site obstructions cause unsafe tool-handling conditions.

10. Start Up

Before starting the drill rig engine, make sure all gear boxes are in neutral, all hoist
levers are disengaged, all hydraulic levers are in the correct nonactuating positions, and the
cathead rope is off the cathead.

11. Safety during Drilling Operations

Safety requires the attention and cooperation of all drilling personnel and site visitors.

Before raising the mast (derrick), look up to check for overhead obstructions. (Refer
to Section 13, Overhead and Buried Utilities.)

Before raising the mast (derrick), clear all drill rig personnel (with the exception of
the operator) and visitors from the areas immediately to the rear and the sides of the mast.
Inform all drill rig personnel and visitors that the mast is being raised prior to raising it.

Before raising the mast (derrick) of the drill rig and drilling commences, level and
stabilize the drill rig with leveling jacks and/or solid cribbing. Relevel the drill rig if it
settles after initial setup. Lower the mast (derrick) only when the leveling jacks are down.
Do not raise the leveling jack pads until the mast (derrick) is lowered completely.
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Before starting drilling operations, secure and/or lock the mast (derrick) if required
according to drill manufacturer recommendations.

The drill rig operator should only operate the drill rig when within reach of the controls. If
the operator must leave the area of the controls, he/she should shift the transmission
controlling the rotary drive into neutral and place the feed control level in neutral. The
operator should shut down the drill engine before leaving the vicinity of the drill.

Exhaust fumes may be hazardous and some fumes cannot be detected by smell. If it
is necessary to drill within an enclosed area, ensure that exhaust fumes are conducted out of
the area.

Clean mud and grease from your boots before mounting a drill platform and use handholds
and railings. Watch for slippery ground when dismounting from the platform.

During freezing weather, do not touch any metal parts of the drill rig with exposed
flesh. Moist skin can freeze to metal almost instantaneously.

If freezing weather is expected, drain all air and water lines and pumps when
not in use.

Adequately cover or otherwise protect all unattended boreholes to prevent drill rig
personnel, site visitors, or animals from stepping or falling into them. Cover, protect, or
adequately backfill all open boreholes according to local or state regulations on completion
of the drilling project.

When using a ladder on the drill rig, face the ladder and grasp either the side rails or
the rungs with both hands while ascending or descending. Do not attempt to use one or both
hands to carry a tool while on a ladder. Use a hoist line and a tool "bucket" or a safety hook
to raise or lower hand tools.

Before lifting any object without using a hoist, ensure that the load is within your
personal lifting capacity. If it is too heavy, ask for assistance.

Before lifting a relatively heavy object, approach the object by bending at the knees.
Keep your back vertical and unarched while establishing a firm footing. Grasp the object
firmly with both hands, and stand slowly and squarely while keeping your back vertical and
unarched. In other words, perform the lifting with the muscles in your legs, not with the
muscles in your lower back.
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If a heavy object must be moved some distance without the aid of machinery, keep
your back straight and unarched. Change directions by moving your feet, not by twisting
your body.

Move heavy objects with the aid of hand carts whenever possible.

Terminate drilling operations during an electrical storm, and move the entire crew
and visitors away from the drill rig.

12. Overhead and Buried Utilities

The use of a drill rig on a site or project within the vicinity of electrical power lines and other
utilities requires special precautions by both supervisors and members of the exploration crew.
Electricity can shock; it can burn; and it can kill.

All boring location plans and boring assignment sheets should indicate locations of overhead
and buried utilities in a prominent fashion.

When there are overhead electrical power lines at or near a drilling site or project,
consider all wires to be live and dangerous.

Watch for sagging power lines before entering a site. Do not lift power lines to gain
entrance. Call the power company and ask them to lift or raise the lines or de-energize (turn
off) the power.

Before raising the drill rig mast (derrick) on a site in the vicinity of power lines, walk
completely around the drill rig. Determine the minimum distance from any point on the drill
rig to the nearest power line when the mast is raised and/or being raised. Do not raise the
mast or operate the drill rig if this distance is less than 20 feet (6 meters), or the minimum
clearance stipulated by federal, state, and local regulations, if known.

Keep in mind that the wind can move both hoist lines and overhead power lines toward each
other.

In order to avoid contact with power lines, only move the drill rig with the mast (derrick)
down.

Call the power company if there are any questions concerning the safety of drilling
on sites in the vicinity of overhead power lines. Power company personnel will provide
expert advice at the drilling site at no cost as a public service.
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Underground electricity is as dangerous as overhead electricity. Be alert and always

suspect the existence of underground utilities such as electrical power, gas, petroleum,
telephone, sewer, and water. The project principal investigator should contact Joint Utility
Locating Information for Excavators (JULIE) to obtain locations of utilities at each drill site.
The safety supervisor/driller should not commence drilling at any site unless it has been
cleared through JULIE.

Because JULIE is a service to which not all utility companies subscribe, it is the
principal investigators responsibility to ensure that all utilities are located. This may
require contacting local authorities for utility information.

Before working on an electrical power or lighting system, lock out the main panel box with
your own lock and keep the key on your person at all times.

13. Contact with Electricity

If the drill rig makes contact with electrical wires, the drill rig may or may not be grounded
by the tires of the drill rig transport vehicle. Under either circumstance, if the human body
simultaneously comes in contact with the drill rig and the ground, it will serve as a conductor of the
electricity to the ground. Death or serious injury may result. If the drill rig or the drill rig transport
vehicle makes contact with overhead or underground electrical lines:

Under most circumstances, the operator and other personnel seated in the vehicle should
remain seated and not leave the vehicle. They should not move or touch any part,
particularly a metallic part, of the vehicle or the drill rig.

If it is determined that the drill rig should be vacated, then all personnel should jump
clear and as far as possible from the drill rig. They should not step off but rather jump off
and not touch the vehicle or any part of the drill rig when jumping clear.

Anyone on the ground, should stay away from the vehicle and the drill rig. They should not
let others near the vehicle and the drill rig and should seek assistance from local emergency
personnel (police or fire department).

When someone is injured and still has contact with the drill rig or with power lines,
attempt rescue with extreme caution. If a rescue is attempted, use a long, dry, unpainted
piece of wood or a long, dry, clean rope. Keep as far away from the victim as possible, and
do not touch the victim until he/she is completely clear of the drill rig or electrical lines.
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When the victim is completely clear of the electrical source and the drill rig, begin
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately if the victim is unconscious and a heart
beat (pulse) cannot be detected.

14. Safe Use of Wire Line Hoists, Wire Rope, and Hoisting Hardware

The use of wire line hoists, wire rope, and hoisting hardware should be as stipulated by the
American Iron and Steel Institute Wire Rope Users Manual.

The safety supervisor should visually inspect all wire ropes and fittings during use
and thoroughly inspect them at least once a week for: abrasion, broken wires, wear,
reduction in rope diameter, reduction in wire diameter, fatigue, corrosion, damage from heat,
improper reeving, jamming, crushing, bird caging, kinking, core protrusion, and damage to
lifting hardware. Wire ropes should be replaced when inspection indicates excessive damage
according to the Wire Rope Users Manual. All wire ropes that have not been used for a
month or more should be thoroughly inspected before being returned to service.

End fittings and connections consist of spliced eyes and various manufactured devices. All
manufactured end fittings and connections should be installed according to manufacturer
instructions and loaded according to the manufacturer specifications.

If a hoisting swivel (ball-bearing type) is used to hoist drill rods, inspect and lubricate
swivel bearings daily to assure that the swivel rotates freely under the load.

Most sheaves on exploration drill rigs are stationary with a single part line. The number of
parts of line should never be increased without first consulting with the drill rig
manufacturer.

Wire ropes must be matched properly with each sheave: if the rope is too large, the
sheave will pinch the wire rope; if the rope is too small, it will groove the sheave. Once the
sheave is grooved, it will severely pinch and damage larger wire ropes.

The following procedures and precautions must be understood and implemented for safe use
of wire ropes and rigging hardware.

Tool handling hoists should be used only for vertical lifting of tools (except when
drilling angle holes).

When the hoist cannot raise lodged tools or similar loads, disconnect the hoist line
and connect the lodged tools directly to the feed mechanism of the drill. Do not use
hydraulic leveling jacks for added pull to the hoist line or the feed mechanism of the drill.
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Minimize shock loading of a wire rope: apply loads smoothly and steadily to prevent
breaking.

Avoid sudden loading in cold weather.

Never use frozen ropes.

Protect wire rope from sharp corners or edges.

Replace faulty guides and rollers.

Replace worn sheaves or worn sheave bearings.

Replace damaged safety latches on safety hooks before using.

Never exceed the safe working load of the equipment and tackle being used.

Periodically inspect and test clutches and brakes of hoists.

Know and do not exceed the rated capacity of hooks, rings, links, swivels, shackles,
and other lifting aids.

Always wear appropriate gloves when handling wire ropes.

Following the installation of a new wire rope, always lift a light load to allow the wire rope
to adjust.

Never conduct any hoisting operations when weather conditions create hazards for
personnel, the public, or property.

Never leave a load suspended in the air when the hoist is unattended.

Keep your hands away from hoists, wire rope, hoisting hooks, sheaves, and pinch
points as slack is being taken up and when the load is being hoisted.

Never hoist the load over the head, body, or feet of any personnel.

Never use a hoist line to "ride" up the mast (derrick) of a drill rig.

All replacement wire ropes should conform to drill rig manufacturer specifications.
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15. Safe Use of Augers

Use the following general procedures when starting a boring with continuous-flight or
hollow-stem augers:

Prepare to start an auger boring with the drill rig level, the clutch or hydraulic rotation
control disengaged, the transmission in low gear, and the engine running at low revolutions
per minute.

Apply an adequate amount of downward pressure prior to rotation to seat the auger
head below the ground surface.

Watch the auger head while slowly engaging the clutch or rotation control and starting
rotation. Stay clear of the auger.

Slowly rotate the auger and auger head while continuing to apply downward pressure. Keep
one hand on the clutch or the rotation control at all times until the auger has penetrated about
one foot or more below ground surface.

If the auger head slides out of alignment, disengage the clutch or hydraulic rotation
control, and repeat the hole starting process.

An auger guide can facilitate the starting of a straight hole through hard ground or
pavement.

The operator and tool handler should establish a system of responsibility for the various
activities required for auger drilling, such as connecting and disconnecting auger sections,
and inserting and removing the auger fork. The operator must ensure that the tool handler
is well away from the auger column and that the auger fork is removed before starting
rotation.

Use only the manufacturer's recommended method of securing the auger to the power
coupling. Do not touch the coupling or the auger with your hands, a wrench, or any other
tools during rotation.

Whenever possible, use tool hoists to handle auger sections.

Never place your hands or fingers under the bottom of an auger section when hoisting the
auger over the top of the auger section in the ground or over other hard surfaces such as the
drill rig platform.
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Ensure that no one is under the auger section being hoisted.

When rotating augers, stay clear of the rotating auger and other rotating components
of the drill rig. Never reach behind or around a rotating auger.

Use a long-handled shovel to move auger cuttings away from the auger. Never use
your hands or feet to move cuttings away from the auger. Do not use a shovel, your hands,
or your feet to clean rotating augers.

Do not attempt to remove earth from rotating augers. Augers should be cleaned only
when the drill rig is in neutral and the augers are not rotating. If available, pressurized water
is recommended for jet cleaning.

Avoid the use of mismatched auger sections.

16. Safety during Rotary and Core Drilling

Conduct a safety check of rotary drilling tools prior to drilling:

Lubricate and check water swivels and hoisting plugs before use to check for frozen
bearings.

Periodically check drill rod chuck jaws and replace when necessary.

Check the capacities of hoists and sheaves against the anticipated weight to the drill
rod string plus other expected hoisting loads.

Take special precautions to ensure safe rotary or core drilling that involves chucking,
joint breaking, hoisting, and lowering of drill rods:

Never use pipe wrenches to hold drill rods or to lower them into the hole.

Allow drill rods to drain completely following braking and before removal from the
working area.

The operator should exercise care to avoid a sudden hoist release of the drill rod while the
rod is being carried from the hole.

It is necessary to know the hoisting capacity and weight of the drill rod to prevent
collapse of the mast during drill string removal from the hole. Never exceed the operating
capacity of the mast and hoist.
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If a string of drill rods is accidentally or inadvertently released into the hole, do not
attempt to grab the falling rods with your hands or a wrench.

In the event of a plugged bit or other circulation blockage, relieve or bleed down the
high pressure in the piping and hose between the pump and the obstruction before breaking
the first tool joint.

Safe handling specifies that, when drill rods are hoisted from the hole, they should
be cleaned with a rod wiper of rubber or other suitable material. Do not use your hands to
clean drilling fluids from drill rods.

If work must progress over a portable drilling fluid (mud) pit, do not attempt to stand
on narrow sides or cross members. The mud pit should be equipped with rough surfaced,
fitted cover panels of adequate strength to hold drill rig personnel.

Drill rods should not be lifted and leaned against the mast unless secured. Either provide
some method of securing the upper ends of the drill rod sections for safe vertical storage or
lay the rods down.

17. Safety during Travel

The vehicle operator who transports a drill rig on and off a drilling site must follow certain
precautions:

He/she should possess a Class A-Commercial Drivers Licensed (CDL) and should
only operate the vehicle according to federal, state, and local regulations.

He/she should know the traveling height (overhead clearance), width, length, and
weight of the drill rig with carrier and know highway and bridge load, width, and overhead
limits, making sure these limits are not exceeded, with an adequate margin of safety.

He/she should never move a drill rig unless the vehicle brakes are in sound working
order.

He/she should allow for mast (derrick) overhang when cornering or approaching other
vehicles or structures.

He/she should be aware that the canopies of service stations and motels do not always
provide adequate clearance for a drill rig mast (derrick) in the travel down position.
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He/she should watch for low hanging electrical lines, particularly at the entrances to
drilling sites, restaurants, motels, or other commercial sites.

He/she should never travel on a street, road, or highway with the mast (derrick) of
the drill rig in the raised or partially raised position.

He/she should remove all ignition keys when the drill rig is left unattended.

18. Off-Road Movement

The following safety suggestions relate to off-road movement:

Before moving a drill rig, first walk the route of travel, inspecting for depressions,
stumps, gullies, ruts, and similar obstacles.

Always check the brakes of the drill rig truck before traveling, particularly on rough,
uneven, or hilly ground.

Check the complete drive train of the drill rig truck at least weekly for loose or damaged
bolts, nuts, studs, shafts, and mountings.

Discharge all passengers before moving the drill rig on rough or hilly terrain.

Use caution when traveling along the side of a hill. Conservatively evaluate the side-
hill capability of the drill rig, because the arbitrary addition of drilling tools may raise the
center of mass. When possible, travel directly uphill or downhill. Increase tire pressures
before traveling in hilly terrain (do not exceed rated tire pressure).

Cross obstacles such as small logs and small erosion channels or ditches squarely,
not at an angle.

Use the assistance of someone on the ground as a guide when lateral or overhead clearance
is close.

After the drill has been moved to a new drilling site, set all brakes and/or locks. When grades
are steep, block the wheels.

Never travel off-road with the mast (derrick) of the drill rig in the raised or partially
raised position.
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19. Tires, Batteries, and Fuel

The vehicle operators must check the tires on the drill rig daily for safety and during
extended travel for loss of air. Tires must be maintained and/or repaired in a safe manner. If tires
are deflated to reduce ground pressure for movement on soft ground, they should be reinflated to
normal pressures before movement on firm or hilly ground or on streets, roads, and highways.
Underinflated tires are less stable on firm ground than properly inflated tires. Air pressures should
be maintained for travel on streets, roads, and highways, according to the manufacturer
recommendations. During air pressure checks, inspect for:

Missing or loose wheel lugs.

Objects wedged between duals (two-wheel configurations) or embedded in the tire

casing.

Damaged or poorly fitting rims or rim flanges.

Abnormal or uneven wear and cuts, breaks, or tears in the tire casing.

Repair of truck and off-highway tires should be made only with required special tools and
following the recommendations of the tire manufacturer's repair manual.

Use extreme caution when servicing batteries because they contain strong acid.

Service batteries only in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses (with solid side shields).

When removing a battery from a vehicle or service unit, disconnect the battery ground clamp
first.

When installing a battery, connect the battery ground clamp last.

When charging a battery with a battery charger, turn off the power source to the battery
before either connecting or disconnecting charger leads to the battery posts.

Spilled battery acid can burn skin and damage human eyes. Immediately flush spilled
battery fluid off of your skin with lots of water. Should battery acid get into someone's eyes,
flush them immediately with large amounts of water and see a physician at once.

To avoid battery explosions, keep the battery cells filled with electrolyte. Use a flashlight,
not an open flame, to check electrolyte levels. Use care to avoid shorting across a battery
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terminal and causing an unsafe sparking condition. Keep lighted smoking materials and
flames away from batteries.

Take special precautions for handling fuel and refueling the drill rig engine and drill rig
truck.

Use only the type and quality of fuel recommended by the engine manufacturer.

Refuel in a well-ventilated area.

Do not fill fuel tanks while the engine is running. Turn off all vehicle electrical switches.

Do not spill fuel on hot surfaces. If a spill occurs, clean any spillage before starting
the engine.

Wipe up spilled fuel with cotton rags or cloths. Do not use wool or metallic cloth.

Keep the following at least 50 feet away from the fueling area: open lights, lighted
smoking materials, and flames or sparking equipment.

Turn off heaters in truck cabs when refueling the truck or the drill rig.

Avoid filling portable fuel containers completely to allow expansion of the fuel during
temperature changes.

Keep the fuel nozzle in contact with the tank being filled to prevent static sparks from
igniting the fuel.

Do not transport portable fuel containers in the support vehicle cab or truck cab.

Fuel containers and hoses should maintain contact with a metal surface during travel
to prevent the buildup of static charge.

20. First Aid

A well-maintained first-aid kit must be available on the drill rig.

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21. Drill Rig Use

Do not attempt to exceed manufacturer ratings of speed, force, torque, pressure, flow, etc.
Only use the drill rig and tools for the purposes for which they were designed and intended.

22. Drill Rig Alterations

Alterations to a drill rig or drilling tools should be made only by qualified personnel and only
after consultation with the manufacturer.
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REFERENCES

American National Standards Institute Eye and Face Protection, ANSI Z87.1. 1968. American
National Standards Institute, New York, NY.

American National Standards Institute Mens Safety Toe Footwear, ANSI Z41.1. 1967.
American National Standards Institute, New York, NY.

American National Standards Institute Safety Requirements for Industrial Head Protection,
ANSI Z89.1. 1969. American National Standards Institute, New York, NY.

Driller's Safety Manual. 1973. United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation,
Washington, D.C.

Drilling Safety Guide.1985. National Drilling Federation, Columbia, SC.

Internal Policy, Procedure and Information Manual. 1999. Illinois State Water Survey,
Champaign, IL.

Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual for Hazadous Waste Site Activities. 1985.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, OH.

Wire Rope Users Manual. 1993. The Board, Woodstock, MD.