IOGP SAFETY ALERT

SPOTTER CAUGHT BETWEEN OUTRIGGER AND WELL HOUSE

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/