Safety Standards & Practices Flashcards

When working near an energized power line during drilling operations, what is the minimum safe approach distance for equipment under 50 kV?

Answer: 10 feet

OSHA requires a minimum 10-foot clearance from energized power lines up to 50 kV for equipment and workers.

A confined space entry permit for a completed well vault must include which of the following?

Answer: Atmospheric testing results before and during entry

Atmospheric testing for oxygen, flammable gases, and toxic vapors must be documented before and monitored during confined space entry.

Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for a Class C electrical fire on a drilling rig?

Answer: CO2 or dry chemical extinguisher

Class C fires involving energized electrical equipment require non-conductive extinguishing agents such as CO2 or dry chemical.

What is the primary purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) before beginning a well drilling project?

Answer: To identify and mitigate hazards associated with each task step

A JHA systematically breaks down job tasks to identify potential hazards and establish controls before work begins.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas encountered during drilling is most dangerous because it:

Answer: Desensitizes the sense of smell at high concentrations, giving no warning

H2S paralyzes olfactory nerves at concentrations above 100 ppm, making the gas undetectable by smell at dangerous levels.

Which lockout/tagout (LOTO) step must occur FIRST when servicing drilling rig hydraulic systems?

Answer: Identify all energy sources including stored hydraulic pressure

Before any lockout device is applied, all energy sources — including residual hydraulic pressure — must be identified to ensure complete isolation.

During drilling in a known pesticide-contaminated area, workers should wear at minimum which respiratory protection?

Answer: Half-face air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridges

Organic vapor cartridges on a half-face APR provide baseline protection against volatile organic pesticide compounds during outdoor drilling.