902 Well Site Preparation and Drilling Safety

Tripping Out: Working on the Monkeyboard

Safety is critical because the monkeyboard is located high above the rig floor. Workers must use fall protection and follow all safety rules during tripping out operations.

Possible Solutions

• Use a climb-assist device or ladder safety system to reduce fatigue and maintain three points of contact while climbing the derrick.
• Wear appropriate fall protection at all times while working at elevation, including a properly fitted full-body harness with approved connectors and anchorage.
• Follow applicable OSHA fall protection requirements and guidance, including:
• 29 CFR 1910.23(c)(1) – Fall protection requirements for work on platforms.
• 29 CFR 1910.66 Appendix C – Personal fall arrest system guidelines.
• 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D – Walking-Working Surfaces.

• Wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including:
• Hard hat to protect against falling objects
• Work gloves to improve grip and reduce hand injuries
• Safety-toed footwear with slip-resistant soles

• Apply slip-resistant coatings or materials to ladders, monkeyboards, and fingerboards where feasible.
• Train all derrickhands in the proper use, inspection, and deployment of the derrick emergency escape device.
• Practice proper hand placement and use pullback (tail) ropes to guide pipe while maintaining safe body positioning.
• Implement a dropped-objects prevention program, including mandatory tool tethering and securing loose equipment.
• Use heightened awareness and communication while personnel are working overhead or beneath the monkeyboard.
• Do not carry tools while climbing the derrick ladder. Hoist tools separately using a rope or line once the worker is properly positioned and tied off.

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