903 Well Site Completion and Servicing Safety

Pulling and Running Tubing

In oil and gas well servicing, tubing must sometimes be removed and replaced to keep the well producing safely and efficiently.

This process is known as pulling and running tubing. The tubing is a long, hollow steel pipe that carries oil, gas, or other fluids from deep inside the well up to the surface.

There are several reasons why tubing may need to be pulled from the well, including:

• Replacing a packer, which is a tool used to seal the space between tubing and casing
• Locating and repairing a leak in the tubing string
• Removing tubing that is plugged with debris or scale that blocks fluid flow

After any necessary repairs or replacements are made, the tubing is run back into the well using a workover rig. Tubing handling equipment includes the traveling block and elevators, which are used to lift and lower the tubing during the operation.

Raising or Lowering the Traveling Block and Elevator

The traveling block and elevator are large, moving parts of the rig used to raise and lower tubing into the well.

Potential Hazards

• Being struck by the elevators or traveling block while they are raised or lowered
• Getting fingers or hands pinched between the elevators and tongs or tubing collar

Possible Solutions

• Instruct workers to stand clear of the tong and slip area when the elevator and traveling block are being lowered
• Use the designated handles on the elevators when guiding them into position over the tubing

Latching or Unlatching Elevators Onto the Tubing

Hazards and Solutions

Latching and unlatching elevators is the process of connecting or disconnecting the lifting equipment to the tubing. This action must be done many times as tubing is pulled out of or run into the well. Each step must be done carefully to avoid injury and ensure the tubing is properly supported.

Potential Hazards

• Pinching hands or fingers inside the elevators during connection or disconnection
• Being struck by elevators that are not securely latched to the tubing

Possible Solutions

• Ensure that workers are trained in proper latching procedures to prevent accidents
• Inspect and maintain elevators regularly to make sure they are working correctly and safely

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