Drilling Rig Safety Inspection Checklist
Daily drilling rig safety checklist covering drilling floor, derrick, BOP, and mud systems. API RP 54 and OSHA compliant. Download PDF template.
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Drilling Rig Safety Checklist
PDF Checklist
What's Included in This Checklist
Why Drilling Rig Safety Checklists Matter in Oil & Gas
Drilling rig operations involve some of the highest-risk activities in the oil and gas industry. According to OSHA, the fatality rate for oil and gas extraction workers is seven times higher than the national average. Daily rig inspections are your first line of defense against equipment failures, unsafe conditions, and potential incidents that can result in injuries, fatalities, or costly shutdowns. A systematic inspection process ensures that every shift starts with verified equipment integrity and documented safety conditions.
Key Inspection Areas Covered
Drilling Floor Inspection
Verify rotary table guards are in place, check floor condition for slip hazards, inspect tong lines and backup systems, and confirm all hand tools are properly stored and secured.
Derrick and Mast Assessment
Inspect crown block and traveling block assemblies, verify derrick ladder and escape routes are clear, check guy wires and anchor points, and examine all structural connections for wear or damage.
BOP Stack Verification
Confirm blowout preventer function test completion, verify accumulator pressure readings, check all BOP control lines for leaks, and document last pressure test date and results.
Mud System Check
Inspect shale shaker screens and operation, verify mud weight and properties are within specification, check pump pressures and relief valves, and confirm gas detection systems are functioning.
Power System Review
Verify generator operation and fuel levels, check electrical panel conditions and breaker status, inspect grounding systems, and confirm emergency power cutoff accessibility. Document any abnormal readings or conditions that may indicate developing electrical issues requiring maintenance attention.
Regulatory Requirements & Compliance
OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart O covers machinery and machine guarding requirements applicable to drilling operations. API Recommended Practice 54 (RP 54) provides specific guidelines for occupational safety on drilling rigs. BSEE regulations under 30 CFR 250 mandate regular equipment inspections for offshore operations. Failure to maintain proper inspection documentation can result in citations ranging from $15,625 for serious violations up to $156,259 for willful violations per incident.
Why Safety Teams Trust This Template
API RP 54 Aligned
Built to meet API Recommended Practice 54 drilling rig safety requirements recognized across the industry.
Shift-Ready Format
Organized for quick daily inspections at shift change. Most crews complete it in 15-20 minutes.
Drilling Crew Tested
Developed with input from experienced drillers and toolpushers working active rigs in major basins.
Common Questions About Drilling Rig Safety Checklists
How often should drilling rig inspections be performed?
Daily inspections should be conducted at the start of each shift, with more comprehensive weekly and monthly inspections covering additional equipment. API RP 54 recommends visual inspections before each tour (shift) and documented inspections at regular intervals based on equipment criticality.
Who is qualified to perform rig inspections?
Rig inspections should be performed by trained personnel familiar with drilling equipment and safety requirements. Typically, the driller or toolpusher conducts daily inspections, while certified inspectors handle periodic comprehensive assessments. All inspectors should have completed IADC or equivalent rig safety training.
What happens if we find a deficiency during inspection?
Any deficiencies identified during inspection should be documented immediately and communicated to the supervisor. Critical safety issues require immediate work stoppage until corrected. Non-critical items should be logged for repair during the next maintenance window with clear responsibility assignments and due dates.
About This Free Download
Is this rig inspection checklist really free?
Yes, completely free. Enter your email and we'll send the PDF immediately. No credit card required, no hidden fees.
Can I modify this checklist for our specific rig setup?
The PDF is a starting point you can customize. For digital checklists with custom fields, photo capture, and automatic issue tracking, explore BasinCheck's full platform.
How comprehensive is this rig inspection form?
This checklist covers 10 critical inspection areas including drilling floor, derrick, BOP, and mud systems. Most crews complete it in 15-20 minutes per shift.
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