Summary
Incident Description:
During a rig move in extreme cold conditions, a bed truck was staged at the edge of the complex mating area while personnel cleared an obstruction. After receiving a signal to proceed, the truck moved forward.
At the same time, a worker bent down to pick up a tool within the truck’s travel path. The passenger-side front tire struck the worker, resulting in a fractured pelvis.
Incident Learnings:
Line-of-fire hazards during rig move operations can result in high-risk SIF exposures.
Spotting operations with bed trucks must incorporate controlled movement with verifications utilized.
Simultaneous operations can increase overall risk and require additional hazard assessment.
Awareness Items:
When working around heavy equipment:
- Ensure proper spotting is in place
- Third-party operators must have a designated, competent spotter when visibility is limited, or workers are in the area
- Stay in the heavy equipment operator’s line of sight
- If you cannot clearly see the operator, assume they cannot see you
- Establish positive communication before approaching
- Make eye contact and receive acknowledgement from the heavy equipment operator before entering the area
- Maintain exclusion (buffer) zones
- Keep a safe distance from all moving equipment
- Never enter the travel path unless authorized and confirmed safe
- Wear high-visibility PPE
- Ensure you are clearly visible at all times, especially in low light or extreme weather
- Utilize engineering controls where available
- Use cameras, alarms, and proximity detection systems to reduce blind spots