floorman

Test Your Knowledge

Quiz: The Floorman

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the primary responsibility of a floorman?

a) Operating the drilling rig b) Supervising the drilling crew c) Assisting the driller in various tasks d) Managing the wellsite budget

2. Which of the following is NOT a typical task for a floorman?

a) Handling drill pipes and casing b) Cleaning and organizing the drilling floor c) Monitoring the drilling rig's performance d) Negotiating contracts with oil and gas companies

3. What is a key skill required for a floorman?

a) Computer programming b) Public speaking c) Physical strength and stamina d) Financial analysis

4. Why is it important for a floorman to have good communication skills?

a) To negotiate salaries with the driller b) To write reports on the drilling progress c) To effectively work with the drilling crew and driller d) To give presentations to clients

5. How does the floorman contribute to the overall success of a drilling project?

a) By making decisions on the drilling strategy b) By ensuring a safe and efficient drilling operation c) By managing the finances of the project d) By designing new drilling technologies

Exercise: The Floorman's Checklist

Scenario: You are a floorman working on a drilling rig. You are responsible for the daily safety check of the drilling floor.

Task: Create a checklist of at least 5 items that the floorman should inspect every day before starting drilling operations. Ensure that your checklist includes items related to:

• Safety Equipment: (e.g., fire extinguishers, first aid kit)
• Equipment Condition: (e.g., drill pipes, casing, tools)
• General Cleanliness: (e.g., debris, spills)
• Potential Hazards: (e.g., loose objects, uneven surfaces)

Example:

• Safety Equipment:
  • Fire extinguisher in working order
  • First aid kit fully stocked

Techniques

Chapter 1: Techniques

Floorman Techniques: A Hands-on Guide to Drilling Operations

The floorman's role is crucial, and their expertise extends beyond basic tasks. Here's a closer look at the key techniques they employ:

1. Handling Tools and Equipment:

• Rigging: Floormen are experts in rigging procedures, using slings, chains, and hoists to safely move heavy equipment. They understand weight distribution, proper anchoring, and safe lifting techniques.
• Pipe Handling: Mastering the art of handling drill pipe is essential. Floormen use specialized tools like tongs, elevators, and slips to connect, disconnect, and maneuver pipe sections efficiently.
• Casing Handling: Similar to pipe handling, floormen assist with casing installation, using hydraulic casing rams and other specialized equipment to set and secure casing strings in the wellbore.
• Tool Running: They assist in running various downhole tools, like drill bits, reamers, and casing scrapers, ensuring proper connection and alignment.

2. Maintaining the Drilling Floor:

• Floor Organization: Floormen are responsible for maintaining a clean, organized drilling floor, ensuring clear pathways for equipment movement and preventing potential hazards. They remove debris, store tools properly, and set up work areas efficiently.
• Mud Management: They assist with managing mud flow, checking mud density and viscosity, and maintaining the mud pit area for efficient drilling operations.
• Lubrication and Maintenance: Floormen perform basic maintenance tasks, such as lubricating equipment, checking wear and tear, and reporting any issues to the driller.

3. Monitoring Equipment:

• Visual Inspections: Floormen regularly inspect equipment for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. They report any observations to the driller for further action.
• Gauges and Meters: They monitor gauges and meters to ensure proper operation of drilling equipment, including mud pumps, drawworks, and rotating systems.
• Safety Checks: Floormen perform safety checks on equipment, ensuring proper function of safety devices like brakes, alarms, and emergency shutdowns.

4. Assisting with Well Completion:

• Casing Installation: They assist with running casing strings into the wellbore, ensuring proper connection and alignment with the wellhead.
• Cementing Operations: They work alongside the driller and cementing crew to monitor and support cementing procedures, ensuring proper placement of cement in the wellbore.
• Testing and Evaluation: Floormen assist with various well completion tests, such as pressure testing and production testing, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis.

5. Adhering to Safety Procedures:

• Rig Safety Rules: Floormen are well-versed in rig safety rules and procedures, adhering to strict safety protocols for all operations.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): They utilize appropriate PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and gloves, to minimize risks.
• Emergency Procedures: They are trained in emergency procedures and are prepared to respond effectively in case of accidents or emergencies.

By mastering these techniques, floormen play a crucial role in ensuring safe, efficient, and successful drilling operations.