floorhand

Test Your Knowledge

Floorhand Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. Which of the following is NOT a primary responsibility of a floorhand?

a) Assisting the driller with the rotary table and drilling tools. b) Maintaining drilling fluid and ensuring proper flow. c) Operating the drawworks and controlling the hoisting of the drill string. d) Supervising the entire drilling operation.

2. What is the most crucial safety aspect for a floorhand?

a) Maintaining a clean work environment. b) Monitoring equipment and reporting potential hazards. c) Ensuring proper communication with other crew members. d) Keeping the rig tools organized.

3. What specific mechanical aptitude is crucial for a floorhand?

a) Understanding the mechanics of automobiles. b) Understanding the mechanics of the drilling rig and its equipment. c) Understanding the mechanics of well completion operations. d) Understanding the mechanics of oil and gas extraction processes.

4. Which of the following is NOT a typical skill required for a floorhand?

a) Physical strength and stamina. b) Safety awareness and knowledge. c) Experience in financial management. d) Teamwork and communication skills.

5. What is a potential career path for a floorhand with experience and dedication?

a) Becoming a driller or toolpusher. b) Becoming a geologist or geophysicist. c) Becoming a sales representative for oilfield equipment. d) Becoming a manager in a financial institution.

Floorhand Exercise

Scenario: You are a floorhand working on a drilling rig. The driller has instructed you to disconnect the drill pipe and replace it with a new section. You notice that the threads on the drill pipe are worn and may not connect properly.

Task:

• Identify the potential hazard: What safety issue could arise from worn threads on the drill pipe?
• Explain your actions: What would you do to address the situation and ensure a safe connection?
• Communicate: What would you say to the driller about the situation and your recommended course of action?

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques

Floorhand Techniques: Mastering the Rig Floor

The floorhand's role is a hands-on one, requiring a mastery of various techniques crucial to safe and efficient drilling operations. Here are some key techniques a floorhand must master:

1. Handling Drill Pipe:

• Making Connections: The floorhand assists in connecting and disconnecting sections of drill pipe, ensuring proper alignment and torque. This involves:
  • Rotary Table Alignment: Centering the drill pipe over the rotary table for secure connection.
  • Torque Management: Applying the correct torque to the pipe using a torque wrench, preventing over-tightening or loose connections.
  • Visual Inspection: Thoroughly inspecting the pipe threads and connection points for wear, damage, or leaks.
• Handling Heavy Loads: Safely lifting and moving heavy sections of drill pipe, utilizing proper lifting techniques and safety equipment.

2. Maintaining Drilling Fluid:

• Mud System Monitoring: Keeping a watchful eye on the mud system, observing flow rates, pressure readings, and mud properties.
• Mud Tank Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining mud tanks, ensuring proper mud volume and preventing contamination.
• Mud Additives: Understanding the role of various mud additives and their impact on drilling efficiency and wellbore stability.

3. Operating the Drawworks:

• Hoisting Operations: Assisting the driller in controlling the hoisting system, raising and lowering the drill string.
• Line Handling: Managing the hoisting lines, ensuring they are properly attached and run smoothly.
• Troubleshooting: Recognizing and addressing potential issues with the drawworks, ensuring smooth and safe operations.

4. Rig Safety:

• Hazard Identification: Proactively identifying potential safety hazards on the rig floor and reporting them to the driller.
• Safety Protocol Enforcement: Adhering to all safety protocols, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following safety procedures.
• Emergency Response: Knowing and executing emergency response procedures in case of accidents or incidents.

5. General Rig Duties:

• Rig Setup and Breakdown: Assisting in the setup and breakdown of the drilling rig, including moving and assembling equipment.
• Routine Inspections: Performing regular inspections on rig equipment and systems, reporting any malfunctions or discrepancies.
• Communication: Maintaining clear and concise communication with the driller and other crew members, relaying information and coordinating tasks.

By mastering these techniques, floorhands contribute directly to the smooth operation and safety of the drilling rig, playing a vital role in the successful completion of well projects.