Making Up Pipe in the Mousehole
Making up pipe in the mousehole is a routine drilling operation used to efficiently add a new joint of drill pipe to the drill string. During this process, the crew swings the kelly out over the mousehole and carefully stabs it into the top of a new joint of drill pipe that has been staged vertically in the mousehole.
This operation requires precise timing and coordination between the driller and floor crew, as the kelly and pipe are heavy, suspended, and in close proximity to workers on the rig floor.
Once the kelly is properly stabbed into the pipe, the driller spins it up using a kelly spinner or spinning chain. The crew then uses tongs to apply the required torque to securely make up the connection before drilling resumes.
Potential Hazards
- Being struck by or pinched between the kelly and surrounding equipment during swinging or stabbing operations.
- Losing footing while swinging the kelly over the mousehole or while aligning it with the drill pipe, particularly on slick or cluttered rig floors.
- Being struck by, caught in, or entangled with the spinning chain, kelly spinner, or rotating equipment.
Possible Solutions
- Use proper hand placement and maintain a firm, balanced stance when handling the kelly and related equipment.
- Keep the work area around the rotary table clean and free of mud, ice, snow, debris, and other materials that could cause slipping or tripping.
- Inspect spinning chains before use for broken, cracked, or distorted links. Chains with wear that reduces the metal cross-section to less than 90 percent of its original size must be removed from service.
- Lubricate and properly maintain guide rollers to prevent excessive wear on chains or cables and ensure smooth operation.
- Maintain clear communication between the driller and floor crew throughout the operation.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-4. What is the hazard while swinging the kelly out over the mousehole?
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