OIL & GAS WELL DRILLING RISKS - WELL SITE IGNITION SOURCES

OIL & GAS WELL DRILLING RISKS  - WELL SITE IGNITION SOURCES

There are a number of potential sources of ignition for flammable gases and liquids on the drill site. It is necessary to provide for a general ignition safety program which could pre-empt potential hazards of fire and explosion. 

Potential Hazard:

Ignition and explosions of flammable gases or vapors from:

Internal-combustion engine sparks

Open flames from any source

Smoking

Welding operations

Electric power tools

Two-way radios

Vehicles with catalytic converters

Portable generators

Possible Solutions:

Provide spark arrestors for internal-combustion engines.

Post "NO SMOKING" signs wherever a flammable gas or vapor hazard exists.

Locate "spark producing" equipment or facilities well away from potential hazard areas.

Prohibit vehicles with catalytic converters from the immediate vicinity of the rig.

Prohibit open flames from the vicinity of the rig.

Additional Information:

American Petroleum Institute (API).

RP 54, Recommended Practice for Occupational Safety for Oil and Gas Well Drilling and Servicing Operations, Wireline Service.

RP 500, 3rd Edition, Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum
Facilities Classified as Class 1, Division 1 and Division 2.

RP 505, 2nd Edition, Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum
Facilities Classified as Class 1, Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2.

Accident Prevention Reference Guide. International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC).

29 CFR 1910.106, Flammable and Combustible Liquids. OSHA Standard.

29 CFR 1910 Subpart S, Electrical. OSHA Standards.