902 Well Site Preparation and Drilling Safety

Rigging Up

Rigging up is the process of positioning, assembling, and securing the various components that make up a drilling rig and preparing the rig for drilling operations. This phase transforms the prepared location into an operational drilling site and involves the coordinated installation of structural, mechanical, electrical, and fluid-handling systems.

Rig-up activities require the use of heavy equipment and precise coordination among multiple crews. Because many tasks occur simultaneously and often in close proximity, rigging up is one of the most complex and potentially hazardous phases of drilling operations.

During rig assembly, a wide range of equipment components are lifted, moved, and positioned using cranes, rig-up trucks, forklifts, and winches, depending on the size and configuration of the rig. These operations create significant struck-by, caught-in/between, and fall hazards.

One of the most serious hazards during rigging up is exposure to overhead high-voltage power lines. Contact or close proximity between cranes, masts, or derricks and energized lines can result in severe injury or fatal electrocution. Proper planning, line identification, and clearance controls are essential before rig-up begins.

Rigging up often involves two or more crews working together, sometimes performing different tasks at the same time. Effective communication, clearly defined responsibilities, and coordination between crews are critical to maintaining a safe work environment throughout the rig-up process.

The rigging up process typically includes the following steps, some of which may occur simultaneously depending on the rig design and site conditions:

• Setting up the substructure to provide a stable foundation for the rig floor and mast.
• Installing the rig floor and raising the mast or derrick using cranes or hydraulic systems.
• Installing handrails, guardrails, stairs, walkways, and ladders to ensure safe access and fall protection.
• Installing the power system, including engines, generators, electrical panels, and associated wiring.
• Rigging up the circulating system, including pumps, tanks, piping, and hoses used to circulate drilling fluids.
• Installing auxiliary equipment such as the doghouse, pipe racks, catwalks, and safety systems.
• Inspecting the rig to verify that all components are properly installed, secured, and functioning as intended.
• Rigging down when operations are complete, following a controlled and planned disassembly process.

For a comprehensive overview of drilling rig components and terminology, visit OSHA’s Illustrated Glossary .

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