Alert
  • Published: 20 Jun 2011
  • Incident ID: 3303

Pipe handling fatality

Cause & Consequence

  • Moving, flying or falling object
Incident Consequence
Fatality

Incident Location

Any Location Type

Incident Activity

Drilling, workover

Incident Info Source

Step change in safety

Specific Incident Equipment

Pipe handling lower travel assembly and potential crush points associated with the process

Lessons Identified

  • There were unidentified 'crush points' between the lower travel assembly and the vertical support stanchions.
  • The pipe handler operator failed to establish effective communications with the 'spotter'.
  • There was a failure in establishing a Stop Work authority when personnel were out of line of sight.
  • The operation being carried out was not in accordance with the current company lifting procedures.

Incident Recommendations

  • Provide a formal training programme to include all hazards associated with the operation of the pipe handler.
  • Provide suitable and sufficient onsite supervision during pipe handler operations.
  • Inspect trolley crane operations in an effort to effectively risk assess the operation, and communicate the findings with all personnel who may be involved in the activity.
  • Review the 'Stop Work' authority in all activities.
  • Install and maintain physical safety barriers to prevent personnel accessing the trolley cranes traversing path.

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