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902 Well Site Preparation and Drilling Safety
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Handling Tubulars

Positioning Tubulars for Use

Before tubulars are run into the well, they must be safely positioned near the rig floor or through the V-door. This step includes:

Positioning tubulars for use in the drilling process.
  • Staging tubulars in pipe racks at proper height and alignment.
  • Using lifting equipment to hoist them into position safely.
  • Coordinating movements between ground crews and rig floor workers.

Best Practices

  • Use a powered industrial truck (forklift) properly when moving tubulars.
  • Work tubulars from the ends and from ground level when possible to avoid pinch points.
  • Chock or pin tubulars securely on pipe racks to prevent rolling.
  • Ensure that pipe racks are leveled before placing tubulars on them.
  • Stand clear of any loads that are hoisted, suspended, or moving.
  • Stay alert to tubulars or equipment being lifted through the V-door opening.
  • Train workers on the safe use, inspection, and maintenance of lifting gear.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

4-5. What is a best practice when working with tubulars on pipe racks?