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903 Well Site Completion and Servicing Safety
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Rigging Up the Service Rig

Rigging up the service rig involves assembling and preparing the equipment so that well servicing operations can begin. This includes raising the mast, connecting power systems, and securing all components. Before rigging up, guy line anchors are set into the ground and pull tested. The service rig is then spotted over the well.

Two workers setting up service rig guy lines
These two workers are setting up the service rig guy lines.

One of the most critical parts of this process is lifting the mast. The mast is a tall structure that supports the hoisting system used for pulling pipe out of the well.

Potential Hazards

  • being electrocuted by overhead power lines
  • slips, trips, and falls as a result of unstable or slippery conditions
  • being caught between the mast and mast cradle or being struck by or caught in guy lines and cables when mast is being raised
  • being struck by a toppling mast if the carrier shifts
  • being sprayed with oil if the hydraulic cylinder or hoses fail as mast is being raised
  • twisting and falling of the mast if a guy line or anchor breaks or fails
  • receiving strains and sprains
  • getting hand, finger, and foot injuries during rig up
  • getting the climbing assist counterweight tangled in the mast

In the next section, we will take a look at the possible solutions to the hazards that are involved in rigging up the service rig.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-3. Why are all guy lines uncoiled and laid out?