Start Safety with the Hiring

We are currently bringing into the industry many inexperienced employees and many people are returning to the industry who have prior experience.  Most companies have updated their training programs in order to acquaint these people with present day methods.

The following five-step method has proved to be advantageous in reducing the number of accidents and injuries and has also improved the efficiency of the operation.  The driller should follow these steps.

1. Be selective in choosing the applicant you want in your crew. Remember if you get one “rotten apple,” he can spoil the whole barrel!  A good employee is the one you and the company are looking for.
2. Prepare the worker. Interest the employee in his work and make him want to do it.  Talking to the employee on the way to work can help with this.  Other crew members can also help create interest in the job.  Rig crew training schools are invaluable in preparing the new worker.  Help the new employee develop a real interest and pride in the company.
3. Utilize an orientation program such as “Rig Pass” to introduce workers to your company, rig and the industry.
4. Present the Operation: When a new employee reports for work—regardless of experience, he is apprehensive, nervous, and wants to do a good job. In fact, he tries so hard he gets in everyone else’s way.  He wants to make an impression.  The driller is just as anxious to get along with his work and attempts to carry on as if the employee had been in the crew all along, instead of taking time, a few minutes perhaps, to help make the newcomer feel at home.  An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Take some time to orient the new person. Older crewmembers, by their example and attitude, should help the new crewmember in doing his work efficiently and safely.
5. Performance: As you know each company does certain jobs differently from other contractors, so it will be necessary to correct mistakes this employee has picked up from the last job or learned incorrectly. The employee should not be condemned. After all, he was taught this on the last job or learned incorrectly from his teacher. Give encouragement—this means a lot to a new employee.

Follow up:  Of course, the driller is continuously checking on jobs performed by the floorman, derrickman, etc., and is ultimately responsible for the new worker, but experienced personnel need to take the worker under wing and provide safety guidance.  The driller should do a great deal of checking.  Thorough follow-up supervision could prevent a lot of down time and a lot of accidents.  Check constantly to be certain the employees are working safely.

Try this five-step method for a safe outcome.