immediate first aid

In the event of personnel becoming exposed to any chemical and the chemical is known then refer to
the MSDS or Wallchart for the appropriate action to be taken. If the chemical is not known then the
following general first aid measures apply.
EYE

Immediately flood the eye with water for at least 15 minutes while holding the eye
open. Then obtain medical attention.
INHALED
Remove from exposure, keep warm and at rest. If breathing difficulty develops,
ensure airways are clear and give Oxygen through a face mask. If breathing has stopped
apply artificial respiration immediately. Seek urgent medical assistance.
SKIN
Remove contaminated clothing. Remove any mud with medicated degreaser, then
wash with soap and water. Obtain medical attention if irritation develops.
SWALLOWED Wash out the mouth. Give water to drink, DO NOT INDUCE VOMMITING unless
specifically recommended in the MSDS. Obtain medical attention.
If any medical condition, however minor, occurs seek medical attention immediately.
All incidents and unsafe conditions must be reported to the rig medic and / or rig
safety representative.

miscellaneous rig hazards

Most engineers work at the rig site of the clients, it is imperative that they follow the clients HSE
requirements and systems. The engineers should be aware of the rig safety systems including the alarms
and emergency responses.
The engineer must actively participate in any and all preventative systems. All accidents and or near
miss incidents should be reported through the STOP card or equivalent systems.
Engineers work for a number of different clients and are a crucial element in the transfer of HSE
experience between operators.
A number of rig specific risks exist some are detailed below:

trips and falls

There are numerous trip hazards on a rig site. In order to prevent tripping good house keeping is
essential. The following actions are suggested
Ensure that waste material is tidied away as soon as possible.
When rigging up temporary hoses ensure that they are clearly sign posted.
The most common tripping occurrence is while climbing stairs. Ensure that while climbing stairs at
least one hand is on the rails.
Ensure that guard rails around tanks are in place and in good condition.
Ensure that tops of pits are covered an if opened they are barriered off with clear signs.
Obey all rig-site signs and barriers.
Never work at heights without appropriate training and equipment.

falling objects
Mud Engineers rarely work at heights but on occasion due the rig layout it may prove necessary e.g.
during displacements the flow line may be at height. However if working at heights do not work
without an approved platform and wear inertia protection.
While at a rig site be aware that other personnel may be working atheights and using hand held tools
which can fall and cause severe injuries. Always be conscious of the need to identify and avoid such
potential hazards. Also note that cranes may be shifting loads overhead; never stand or walk under a
load.
11