Derrickhand

Job Description

The Derrickhand is responsible for the mud systems.  This includes measuring mud weight and viscosity, mixing chemicals, and maintaining mud pumps, shakers, and tanks.  Other responsibilities include steadying pipe during connections/disconnections and guiding pipe into and out of elevators. The Derrickhand works closely with and oversees the Floorhands and Motorhand and works under the supervision of the Driller and assists in day-to-day operations.

Detailed Description:

Stand or stand and walk for a minimum of 3.5 hours and up to 12 hours without being able to sit and while wearing steel-toed boots
Frequently climb steep stairs
Frequently climb ladders and work while wearing a harness on an elevated platform
Independently use heavy-duty handheld and long-handled tools
Utilize proper hand signals when working on the board to communicate with others
Work independently while staying on task for the majority of the tour work shift
Demonstrate clear communication skills including ability to read, write and speak English as well as understand and promptly follow verbal and written instructions in English
Take initiative and work independently during downtime
Frequently measure mud weight and viscosity using a scale and timer
Regularly maintain and inspect mud systems (mud levels, pumps, shakers, and tanks)
Regularly check rig and equipment for problems and safety issues on an ongoing basis
Performs preventative maintenance on all equipment above the rig floor and all equipment associated with the drilling fluid system
General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
Inspect the following items in the derrick every tour: all hanging sheaves for wear and grease; all lights on derrick; boom and boom lines; derrick climbing device and derrick ladder; and the stand pipe and Kelly hose
Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
Performs daily inspections of the following: crown block (sheaves and cables); proper working order of the shale shaker (grease bearings, check or loose bolts and replace screens as required); mud agitators; mud mixing equipment; and mud pumps
Quickly follow instructions from Mud Engineer and Driller to ensure operational mud systems
Handle and mix hazardous chemicals into the mud as directed by Mud Engineer, while properly using required Personal Protective Equipment
Prepare stands and steady and guide pipe into and out of elevators during drilling activities
Ensure correct mud pit valves are open / closed
Monitor Floorhands who are assisting in the pits or with chemical sacks
General upkeep and housekeeping of mud pit area
Assist with rig up / down procedures
Support other crew members as needed, ensure compliance with safety procedures, and other additional tasks as assigned
Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description