IOGP Safety Alert #286 Spotter caught between outrigger and well house

11th July 2017

IOGP SAFETY ALERT

SPOTTER CAUGHT BETWEEN OUTRIGGER AND WELL HOUSE
Country: USA – North America
Location: ONSHORE : Camp ie survey, seismic geophysical operations
Incident Date: 15 February 2015 Time: 08:00
Type of Activity: Lifting, crane, rigging, deck operations
Type of Injury: Caught in, under or between
Function: —

A Crane Operator and Spotter were backing a crane into position in front of a drill site well row for work on a flow line support. As the crane backed to approximately five feet from the desired position, the Spotter reached for his radio to give the “Stop” command, but lost his balance. While the Spotter regained his balance, the crane continued to reverse. The Spotter was caught between the outrigger and the well house, causing an injury to right wrist.
What Went Wrong?: The Spotter lost his balance placing him into the line of fire. The Crane Operator continued to back after losing visual contact with the Spotter. The Spotter and Operator had previously agreed that if visual contact was lost that they would rely on verbal communication but did not agree that the verbal communication would be constant. This method of positioning the crane had been normalized between this Spotter and Crane Operator. While moving on pad, the outrigger was left extended to prevent potential hydraulic oil leaks. The pre-task discussion did not identify these hazards. Figure 1: Aerial view of worker and crane position Figure 2: Aerial view of wellhouse and crane position
Corrective Actions and Recommendations: Spotters and Operators of mobile equipment must establish clear communication protocols before commencing task. Spotters must never allow themselves to be in the line of fire of the mobile equipment’s path of travel. When operating equipment, if visual or verbal contact is lost with your Spotter, STOP immediately until contact is re-established and safe operation can continue. Before changing an established practice, ensure there are no higher consequence hazards introduced.


safety alert number: 286 IOGP Safety Alerts https://safetyzone.iogp.org/

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