1. SAFETY
REQUIREMENTS FOR
DRILLING &
WORKOVER RIGS

2. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR
DRILLING & WORKOVER RIGS
© COPYRIGHT 1996, 1999, 2004
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY (SAUDI ARAMCO)
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any
information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Saudi
Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco).

3. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page #
DRILLING & WORKOVER MANAGEMENT
LOSS PREVENTION POLICY STATEMENT …………………………….. 00
SECTION A-INTRODUCTION
A-1 Objectives of this Safety Manual …………………………………….… 01
A-2 Definitions ……………………………………………………………….. 01
A-3 Reference Material ……………………………………………………… 02
A-4 Glossary of Abbreviations ……………………………………………… 05
A-5 Rig Operator’s Responsibilities for Loss Prevention ………….……… 06
A-6 Inspection and Preventive Maintenance ………………………………. 07
SECTION B-GENERAL
B-1 Medical …………………………………………………………………… 08
B-2 Communications ………………………………………………………… 09
B-3 Use of Cellular Phones…………………………………………………… 10
B-4 Personal Protective Equipment ………………………………………… 11
B-5 Clothing ………………………………………………………………….. 12
B-6 Respiratory Protection ………………………………………………….. 13
B-7 Hydrogen Sulfide Safety ……………………………………………….. 19
B-8 Housekeeping ……………………………………………………………. 30
B-9 Rig Camps: Kitchens and Accommodations …………………………. 31
B-10 Fire Extinguishing Equipment …………………………………………. 31
B-11 Truck Loading and Unloading ………………………………………… 35
B-12 Fuel Tanks ……………………………………………………………… 35
B-13 Bulk Storage Tanks..……………………………………………………. 36
B-14 Control of Static Electricity ……………………………………………. 36
B-15 Handling and Storage of Compressed Gas Cylinders ………………… 36

4. B-16 Electric Wiring and Equipment ……………………………………….. 37
B-17 Illumination..…………………………………………………………… 38
B-18 Tools -- Hand and Power …………………………………………..…… 39
B-19 Abrasive Wheel Machinery …………………………………………….. 40
B-20 Welding and Cutting ……………………………………………………. 41
B-21 Air Compressors ………………………………………………………… 44
B-22 Work Permit System………………………………………………………44
B-23 Lockouts and Tagging …………………………………………………... 46
B-24 Use of Potentially Hazardous Materials……………………………….. 47
SECTION C-RIG EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURES
C-1 Spudding In and Rig/Location Release…………………….……….…... 50
C-2 Pre-Tour Checklist / Driller Handover Form……………………………50
C-3 Derricks and Masts ……………………………………………………... 51
C-4 Anchoring – Alterations ………………………………………………… 52
C-5 Crown Blocks …………………………………………………………… 52
C-6 Traveling Blocks . ………………………………………………………. 53
C-7 Auxiliary Escape ………………………………………………………… 53
C-8 Guards …………………………………………………………………… 54
C-9 Derrick Exits, Ladders, Stairways, Floors, and Platforms …………... 54
C-10 Scaffolding……………………………………………………………….. 57
C-11 Pipe Racks ………………………………………………………………. 57
C-12 Pipe Handling …………………………………………………………… 57
C-13 Drawworks Controls. …………………………………………………... 58
C-14 Brake …………………………………………………………………….. 59
C-15 Rotary Table ….…………………………………………………………. 59
C-16 Cathead Lines and Spinning Chains ………………………………….. 60
C-17 TDS / Hoisting and Rotary Operations ………………………………. 60
C-18 Slips ……………………………………………………………………… 61
C-19 Hoisting Lines …………………………………………………………... 61

5. C-20 Riding Hoisting Equipment ……………………………………………. 63
C-21 Elevators ………………………………………………………………… 64
C-22 Manual Tongs …………………………………………………………… 65
C-23 Tong Counterweights …………………………………………………… 65
C-24 Making Up and Breaking Joints ……………………………………….. 66
C-25 Mud Bucket or Saver …………………………………………………… 66
C-26 Power Tongs …………………………………………………………….. 66
C-27 Racking Pipe in Derricks ……………………………………………….. 66
C-28 Finger Boards. ………………………………………………………….. 67
C-29 Stabbing Platforms and Boards ………………………………………... 67
C-30 Safety Belts and Harnesses ……………………………………………... 68
C-31 Blowout Preventors ……………………………………………………… 69
C-32 Safety Valves ……………………………………………………………. 71
C-33 Weight Indicators ………………………………………………………. 71
C-34 Test Plugs ………………………………………………………………… 71
C-35 Rig Tanks or Pit Enclosures …………………………………………… 71
C-36 Pressure Relief Devices, Rig Mud Pumps, Piping, and Hoses.……… 72
C-37 Cellars …………………………………………………………………… 73
C-38 Big Bag Handling Systems ……………………………………………... 73
C-39 Chiksans, Straight Joints and Low Torque Valves…………………… 75
Appendix I & II (Checklist)…………………...……………………….. 76

6. SECTION D-SPECIAL OPERATIONS
D-1 Crane Operations ……………………………………………………….. 79
D-2 Rigging, Material Handling and Slings ……………………………….. 81
D-3 Drill Stem Testing ………………………………………………………..82
D-4 Swabbing ………………………………………………………………… 83
D-5 Cementing ……………………………………………………………….. 83
D-6 Well Servicing and Well Stimulation ………………………………….. 83
D-7 Stripping and Snubbing ……………………………………………….. 84
D-8 Flare Pits and Flare Lines ……………………………………..………. 85
D-9 Journey Management ………………………………………………….. 85
D-10 Coil Tubing Safety………………………………………………………. 86
D-11 Service Company Operations……………………………………………86
SECTION E-OFFSHORE
E-1 Overwater Operations ………………………………………………… 88
E-2 Life Saving Equipment -- Offshore Rigs …………………………….. 89
E-3 Heliports and Helicopter Operations ………………………………… 92
E-4 Personnel Transfer: Boat and Rig …………………………………..… 95

7. SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
apgruullgS.ol ' . (SAUDI ARAMCO)
SaudiArom<o
DRILLING & WORKOVER OPERATIONS DEPARTMENTS
LOSS PREVENTION POLICY STATEMENT
The Drilling & Workover organization is committed to the protection of Saudi Aramco resources,
including employees and physical assets, against human distress and financial loss resulting from
accidental occurrences.
In fulfilling this commitment, which is essential to and equally important as operational objectives,
we will provide and maintain a safe and healthy work environment and protect the public against
foreseeable hazards resulting from our operations. Reduced drilling I workover efficiency and
property losses resulting from accidental occurrences can be controlled through good management.
Loss prevention is one aspect of this process and is the direct responsibility of line management.
All Saudi Aramco drilling and workover activities and functions, including onshore and offshore
activities, will comply with Saudi Arab Government and Saudi Aramco loss prevention requirements
as applied to the design, operation and maintenance of facilities and equipment. When conformity
with any of these requirements would not be practical or cost effective, a waiver will be sought.
Reviews for compliance with this policy will be performed on a selective basis.
Risks to personnel and property will be minimized through application of the best petroleum
industry loss control programs. By applying these programs, the Drilling and Workover
organization will achieve the main objectives of the Saudi Aramco Corporate Loss Prevention
program.
To fulfill this commitment, the dedication and cooperation of all Saudi Aramco and Contractor
personnel associated with drilling and workover are required and expected.
W.H. TURK!,Manager K.E. AL BARRY,Manager (AA)
Gas Drilling & Workover Department S.A. Oil Drilling & Workover Department
K.A. AL BURAIK,Manager (AA)
N.A. Oil Drilling & Workover Department
eneral Manager

8. SECTION A: INTRODUCTION
A-1 OBJECTIVES OF THIS SAFETY MANUAL
The objectives of this manual are to:
1. Establish Saudi Aramco safety rules directly applicable to drilling and workover
activities, and
2. Establish a uniform and comprehensive set of safety requirements that are
equally applicable to Contractor and Company-owned drilling and workover
rigs.
A-2 DEFINITIONS
RIG OPERATOR: In this document, the term "RIG OPERATOR" means the
agency or company responsible for operating any drilling or workover rig,
and/or providing any drilling or workover rig services on behalf of the Saudi
Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco).
COMPANY: The term, "COMPANY", as used throughout this document,
shall be understood to mean the Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco).
It shall include the management of the Drilling and Workover Operations
Departments of Article but can also include all other of management of Saudi
Aramco.
LOSS PREVENTION: The definition of the term, "LOSS PREVENTION," as
used in these “Safety Requirements” is stated in the Saudi Aramco
Corporate Loss Prevention Manual”: “Loss in productivity and property
resulting from accidental occurrences that can be controlled through good
management. Loss prevention is one aspect of this process and is the direct
responsibility of line management.” The Dhahran Area Loss Prevention
Division, Exploration &, Development Unit (E&DU) has the responsibility for
Loss prevention Department (LPD) technical assistance to the COMPANY,
Drilling and Workover, Exploration and Petroleum Engineering organizations
throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 1 of 95 --

9. A-3 REFERENCE MATERIAL
In addition to this publication, the RIG OPERATOR shall have readily available for
reference to drilling or workover personnel the most recent publications as follows:-
IADC Drilling Manual
IADC Accident Prevention
API SPEC 4A Steel Derricks
API SPEC 4E Drilling and Well Servicing Structures
API BULL 5C2 Performance Properties of Casing, Tubing, and Drill Pipe
API BULL 5C4 Round Thread Casing Joint Strength With Combined Internal
Pressure and Bending
API SPEC 6A Wellhead Equipment
API SPEC 7 Rotary Drilling Equipment
API SPEC 7 B-11C Internal Combustion Reciprocating Engines For Oil Field
Service
API RP 7G Drill Stem Design And Operating Limits
API RP 7H Drilling Machinery
API SPEC 8 Drilling and Production Hoisting Equipment
API RP 8B Hoisting Tool Inspection and Maintenance Procedures
API SPEC 9A Wire Rope
API RP 9B Application, Care and Use of Wire Rope For Oil Fields
API SPEC 13A Oil Well Drilling Fluid Materials
API BULL 13C Drilling Fluid Processing Equipment
API RP 49 Recommended Practice for Drilling and Well Servicing
Operations involving Hydrogen Sulfide
API RP 52 Recommended Land Drilling Operating Practices for
Protection of the Environment
API RP 54 Recommended Practices for Occupational Safety and Health
for Oil and Gas Drilling and Servicing Operation
API RP 500 Recommended Practice for Classification of Location for
Electrical Installation at Petroleum Facilities.
API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection Code
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 2 of 95 --

10. API RP 2020 Safe Practices in Drilling Operations
ANSI Z88.2 American National Standard Practices for Respiratory
Protection
ANSI Z89.1 Protective Head ware for Industrial Workers - Requirements
ANSI Z41.83 Protective Footwear
ANSI NFPA-70 Grounding Separately Derived Alternating-Current Systems
NACE MR0175 Metals for Sulfide Stress Cracking and Stress Corrosion
Cracking Resistance in Sour Oilfield Environments
G.I. 2.100 Work Permit System
G.I. 2.104 Leak and Spill Reporting - Arabian Gulf
G.I. 2.400 Offshore Oil (Spill) Contingency Plan
G.I. 2.401 Inland Oil Spill Contingency Plan
G.I. 6.012 Isolation, Lockout and Use of Hold Tags
G.I. 6.020 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDS) for Work On, Over or Near
Water
G.I. 6.025 Control of Remote Area Travel and Search/Rescue
Procedures
G.I. 7.024 Marine and Offshore Crane, Hoist, and Rigging Operations
G.I. 7.025 Mobile Heavy Equipment Operator Testing and Certification
G.I. 7.026 Cranes and Heavy Equipment Accident Reporting Procedures
G.I. 7.027 Crane Suspended Personnel Platform Operations (Manbasket)
G.I. 7.028 Crane Lift: Types and Procedures
G.I. 7.029 Inspection Use and Maintenance of Below-the-Hook Lifting
Equipment for Cranes
G.I. 7.030 Inspection & Testing Requirements of Elevating/Lifting
Equipment
G.I. 8.001 Safety Requirements for Scaffolds
G.I. 151.006 Implementing the Saudi Aramco Sanitary Code
G.I. 1780.001 Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
G.I. 1781.001 Inspection, Testing & Maintenance of Fire Protection
Equipment
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 3 of 95 --

11. G.I. 1850.001 Onshore Contingency Plan
G.I. 1851.001 Offshore Contingency Plan
G.I. 1852.001 Rig site Flare Gun and Communication Equipment
G.I. 1853.001 Isolation Barriers for Wells During Drilling & Workover
Operations (With and Without Rig) Rig & Equipment Operations
and Maintenance Manuals for the Drilling Rig Manufacturers
and Other Major Equipment Items
Saudi Aramco Crane Safety Handbook
Saudi Aramco Construction Safety Manual
Saudi Aramco Drilling & Workover Drilling Manual
Saudi Aramco Land Based Remote Travel Control (Supplement to GI 6.025)
Saudi Aramco Marine Instruction Manual
Schedule „D” Contractor‟s Safety & Loss Prevention Requirements
SAES-A-103 Discharges to the Marine Environment
SAES-A-105 Noise Control
SAES-B-019 Portable, Mobile and Special Fixed Firefighting Equipment
SAES-B-062 Onshore Wellsite Safety
SAES-B-063 Aviation Obstruction Marking and Lighting
SAES-B-067 Safety Identification and Safety Colors Coding
SAES-B-068 Electrical Area Classification
SAES-B-069 Emergency Eyewashes and Showers
SAES-J-505 Combustible Gas and Hydrogen Sulfide in Air Detection
Systems
SAES-P-111 Grounding
SAES-W-010 Welding Requirements for Pressure Vessels
12-SAMSS-023 Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Grating and FRP Components
NOTE: Assistance in obtaining copies of Saudi Aramco documents is provided by
the Dhahran area Loss Prevention Division - Westpark 3, Room 244A, Telephone
874-8419, and Dhahran. Saudi Aramco cannot copy or distribute non-Saudi Aramco
documents such as ANSI, API or IADC copyrighted documents.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 4 of 95 --

12. A-4 GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS
SAES Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards
SAG Saudi Arabian Government
SAMSS Saudi Aramco Material System Specification
ANSI American National Standards Institute
API American Petroleum Institute
BOP Blowout Preventor
G.I. (Saudi Aramco) General Instruction
IADC International Association of Drilling Contractors
MODU Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit
NACE National Association of Corrosion Engineers
NEC (American) National Electrical Code
NFPA (American) National Fire Protection Association
SCR Silicon Controlled Rectifier
SWL Safe Working Load (Limit)
UKDOT United Kingdom Department of Trade
USCG United States Coast Guard
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 5 of 95 --

13. A-5 RIG OPERATORS' RESPONSIBILITIES FOR LOSS PREVENTION
Throughout all phases of any drilling or workover operation the RIG OPERATOR will
be held accountable for the prevention of accidental losses, the protection of
COMPANY interests and resources, and the avoidance of any contamination of the
environment.
The following minimum guidelines are provided to aid the RIG OPERATOR in
meeting this responsibility. Assistance in complying with the requirements set forth
in these guidelines is available from Drilling and Workover Management or from the
Loss Prevention Department of the COMPANY.
1. The RIG OPERATOR shall establish a written loss prevention program that
fulfills all the requirements stated in this Manual including permit to work system
for RIG OPERATOR and all third party rig ups.
2. Any loss prevention program of the RIG OPERATOR shall provide for frequent
and regular inspections of the rig equipment, materials, and accommodations
by competent persons designated by the RIG OPERATOR. This inspection
shall be completed on a monthly basis and submitted to the COMPANY Drilling
Superintendent with responsibility for the oversight of each rig.
3. The RIG OPERATOR shall provide at each drilling and workover rig a copy of
the reference materials (listed earlier on page 10) necessary for the safe
operation of the rig.
4. The RIG OPERATOR is responsible to ensure that all personnel arriving on
location, register and receive a general safety & H2S orientation as directed by
the rig foreman.
5. The RIG OPERATOR shall be thoroughly familiar with the drilling or workover
program. He shall inform the rig crew of any potential adverse conditions (i.e.,
lost circulation zones, high reservoir pressure, high H2S concentrations, etc.)
that require special safety precautions, training, equipment, or additional
personnel.
6. The RIG OPERATOR shall clearly indicate the "SMOKING PERMITTED" areas
around each rig location. All other areas on the location will be considered as
"NO SMOKING" areas and shall be marked accordingly. Smoking shall be
closely controlled throughout the rig location.
7. The RIG OPERATOR shall take all reasonable safety precautions to prevent oil
spills or pollution both onshore and offshore. If an accidental spill or discharge
does occur, every effort shall be made to (a) protect human life, including both
employees and the public, and (b) minimize the impact on the environment.
Should an accidental spill occur, it shall be reported immediately to the
COMPANY representative so that he can take the necessary steps to contain
the spill and implement the applicable reporting requirements of G.I. 2.104, G.I.
2.400, or G.I. 2.401.
8. The RIG OPERATOR shall adequately train each of his employees in the
recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and in all COMPANY loss
prevention standards applicable to his work environment. He shall also
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 6 of 95 --

14. adequately train his employees in methods to control or eliminate any hazards
or other exposures resulting in injury or illness.
9. The RIG OPERATOR's employees, who are required to handle or use poisons,
caustics, acids and other harmful substances, shall be adequately trained
regarding their safe handling and use. The RIG OPERATOR's supervisors
shall discuss the potential hazards, personal hygiene, and necessary personal
protective equipment prior to their employees handling any harmful materials.
The RIG OPERATOR will maintain water stations for washing chemicals spills
and Material Safety Data Sheets for all potentially hazardous chemicals the RIG
OPERATOR orders onto the rig. Note: Saudi Aramco will supply MSDS for
materials Saudi Aramco orders.
10. The RIG OPERATOR shall allow only those personnel qualified by training
and/or experience to operate equipment and machinery. The RIG OPERATOR
shall also ensure that any personnel requiring operator's certificates have them,
or copies thereof, in their possession and have completed any training which
may be required by the laws of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or by the
COMPANY.
11. RIG OPERATORS providing offshore rigs shall ensure that their rigs are kept in
compliance with all applicable maritime/MODU standards of the country in
which the rig is registered as well as any applicable laws and regulations of the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or the COMPANY.
12. A RIG OPERATOR providing offshore rigs shall ensure that all required
certifications are current and that re-certification inspections are completed by
an approved certification authority prior to the expiration of the existing
certificate.
13. On all offshore rigs, a copy of the Barge Marine Operations Manual shall be
kept readily available in the control room for consultation and use. The manual
shall include a complete set of operating instructions, control systems diagrams,
and stability characteristics.
14.. Any special or unusual towing characteristics of an offshore rig shall be
included in the operating instructions and communicated to the towing vessel
operators before towing operations begin.
15. A RIG OPERATOR providing offshore rigs shall ensure that all navigation and
transit lights are operable and used as required by International Rules and
Regulations for Aids to Navigation.
16. Should a conflict arise between a RIG OPERATOR's safety requirement and a
COMPANY requirement, the most restrictive requirement shall apply.
A-6 INSPECTION AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
The RIG OPERATOR is responsible for providing drilling or workover rig(s),
including all auxiliary equipment that is structurally and mechanically capable of
performing according to the agreement between the RIG OPERATOR and the
COMPANY. In order to assure the COMPANY that all equipment is in good working
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 7 of 95 --

15. condition, the RIG OPERATOR shall conduct a physical inspection of its rig and all
auxiliary equipment on a regular basis – no less than once per month.
The RIG OPERATOR will implement a comprehensive preventive maintenance
program to keep equipment in good working condition.
SECTION B: GENERAL
B-1 MEDICAL
1. Each RIG OPERATOR shall comply with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Labor
and Social Affairs Decision Number 404, dated 7 July 1974, entitled "First Aid
Facilities at Work Sites". A copy of this document or an English language
translation is available from the Drilling and Workover Operations Manager or
from Dhahran Area Loss Prevention.
2. The RIG OPERATOR, with the assistance of the COMPANY as required,
prior to the start of drilling or workover operations, shall identify the nearest
trauma clinic or physician or hospital and shall make provisions for the
PROMPT transportation of a victim of injury or sudden illness to the
physician, hospital or clinic or to summon emergency medical personnel to
the location. Also, prior to the start of operations, the COMPANY shall
provide an effective communication system for contacting necessary medical
and emergency agencies with written posted procedures for medical
evacuation [Medivac].
3. The RIG OPERATOR, with the assistance of the COMPANY as required,
shall furnish to any person injured in his employment who is in need of
medical attention immediate transportation to a hospital, physician, or clinic
for the purpose of treatment.
4. Telephone numbers of the physician, hospital, ambulance, and helicopter
services shall be conspicuously posted by the COMPANY in the
Representative‟s office, Rig Manager's office, the rig medic station, and the
radio room. These numbers are to be posted as soon as possible after
moving to a new location.
5. The vehicle or conveyance used for transport of the injured shall in addition to
contractual requirements:
(a) Be of sufficient size and suitable to accommodate a stretcher and
accompanying person entirely within the body of the vehicle or
conveyance.
(b) Be clean and well maintained.
(c) Protect the injured worker and the accompanying person.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 8 of 95 --

16. (d) Be designed and equipped such that verbal communication between
the operator of the vehicle or conveyance and the injured worker or
accompanying person is possible.
6. When immediate transport of the injured is necessary and circumstances do
not allow compliance with Item #5 (above), the senior supervisor at the site
shall use any available means of suitable transportation.
7. A reliable means of communication shall be provided by the COMPANY from
the rig site to base of operations and other outside locations.
8. The RIG OPERATOR shall provide at each rig, qualified medic on the rig,
adequate first aid equipment and emergency treatment facilities.
9. Each rig shall be equipped with two stretchers (Stokes, Navy, Scoop) with
blankets and securing straps that are capable of being carried on the
helicopter or transportation serving the rig.
10. While being transported, all victims shall be accompanied by the rig medic in
addition to the driver or pilot. If a rig medic is not available, the accompanying
person shall have valid up-to-date first aid certification.
11. The RIG OPERATOR shall complete Saudi Arabian Government Form 11 for
each of his injured employees requiring medical treatment and submit the
completed form(s) within three days to the nearest Social Insurance Office.
The RIG OPERATOR shall also comply with any other reports or
investigations required by the laws of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He shall
advise the responsible Aramco Government Affairs Office of all pertinent
information on a timely basis.
12. All RIG OPERATOR employee injuries shall be reported promptly to the
COMPANY Representative. A RIG OPERATOR accident/injury form will be
completed at the rig site, reviewed by the COMPANY Representative and
sent to the appropriate COMPANY Superintendent within 24 hours.
13. Conduct Disaster Drills as specified in the procedures published by the
COMPANY.
B-2 COMMUNICATIONS
1. Reliable communications, radio and/or telephone, shall be maintained at all
times between the rig and operations base. Offshore rigs must also be able
to communicate with other rigs, helicopters, and vessels in the vicinity.
2. On all offshore rigs, on-site communication shall be done using an intercom
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 9 of 95 --

17. type system and necessary in an emergency must be provided by the RIG
OPERATOR.
3. Every rig shall be equipped with a general alarm system capable of providing
an alarm audible throughout the entire installation. In areas of high noise
levels, visual warning signals such as flashing lights shall be provided in
addition to the audible alarms. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that visual
warning signals are not screened or hidden by equipment, machinery, or
structure.
4. Each rig shall be equipped with a public address system capable of clearly
transmitting emergency instructions.
5. Both the general alarm system and the public address system shall be
operable from the main control room and from other control positions on the
installation.
6. The general alarm and public address system shall be supplied with power
from both the normal and emergency power supply.
B-3 CELLULAR TELEPHONE USE ON DRILLING RIGS
1. Cellular telephones are prohibited on all Saudi Aramco drilling & workover rig
work sites.
Work site is defined as anywhere on the rig location except as specified in
sections 2.1 to 2.4 below
Cellular telephones are not classified as safe to operate in a potentially
flammable atmosphere, in addition to distracting personnel from their jobs at
hand. They therefore pose an unacceptable safety risk on a drilling or
workover rig work site
2. All persons entering a Saudi Aramco drilling & workover rig work site must
leave their cellular telephones in one of the following places:
2.1. In their room at camp (or in offshore accommodations).
2.2. In the Drilling Foreman‟s office.
2.3. With the rig Medic as the rig site Medic‟s office (or offshore rig
infirmary)
3. Service company employees may leave their cellular telephones in their
vehicles, provided the vehicles are properly parked on the edge of the
location.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 10 of 95 --

18. 4. Persons expecting a critical call must make arrangements with either the rig
Medic or the Saudi Aramco Drilling Foreman to alert them to an incoming call.
Note, however that it is not Saudi Aramco‟s responsibility to field such calls.
Depending on the task at hand the Drilling Foreman or Medic may not be able
to field calls. Anyone found with a cellular telephone on a Saudi Aramco
drilling & workover rig work site will be removed from the site and a letter will
be sent to their employer.
5. Saudi Aramco reserves the right to bar repeat offenders from entering a
drilling & workover rig work site.
B-4 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Personal protective equipment can never prevent an accident. It does, however,
serve to minimize the effects of an accident if an accident does occur. The RIG
OPERATOR is responsible to require the wearing of approved personal protective
equipment at all times where its use could protect personnel.
1. The RIG OPERATOR shall post warning signs in areas where the use of
personal protective equipment is required.
2. Protective headgear, boots, eye protection and gloves shall be worn by all
personnel working at a drilling or workover well site.
3. Protective headgear shall meet or exceed the requirements of ANSI Z89.1.
Note: Metal hard hats are forbidden per Saudi Aramco Construction Safety
Manual.
4. Properly fitting goggles, face-shields, or other eye protection equipment
appropriate to the work being done, shall be worn by all personnel who are
handling or exposed to any material capable of causing injury or irritation to
the eyes, or engaged in any work in which there is an eye hazard from flying
objects, injurious light, heat rays, or radiation.
5. Safety steel-toe boots or shoes shall be worn by all personnel when working
on or about a drilling or workover rig as per ANSI Z41.83.
6. The RIG OPERATOR shall provide, and all personnel will wear, suitable
protective clothing and equipment including appropriate respiratory protection,
when handling acids, caustics, or other harmful substances which are
potentially harmful or hazardous to the skin. Any rig employee handling dry
mud material must wear adequate personal protective clothing, including
proper eye and face protection.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 11 of 95 --

19. 7. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that, when the clothing or skin of any
personnel becomes contaminated with any flammable or harmful substance,
those exposed shall get in the shower and then remove their clothing and
wash the affected part of the body. The clothing shall be decontaminated
before re-use.
8. The RIG OPERATOR shall provide hearing protection in areas where the
noise levels are above 90 DBA. RIG OPERATOR shall post warning signs
informing all personnel that hearing protection is required while working in
that area.
9. Hearing protection equipment, including head phone type hearing protection
or soft ear plugs, shall be readily available to personnel working in high noise
level areas.
10. All personal protective equipment shall be kept in a sanitary condition and
maintained to perform satisfactorily the function for which it was designed.
11. The RIG OPERATOR shall provide emergency eye wash and or shower
stations where necessary to provide immediate relief to any personnel who
may be contaminated with a harmful substance. The eye wash stations shall
be capable of providing a minimum of 15 minutes of fresh, clean water to
irrigate eyes that have been contaminated by some hazardous material.
Where hard piping systems are not practical, self contained units shall be
used with a suitably buffered solution. These units are to be shaded and or
insulated to minimize temperature variations. The delivered water
temperature at the eyewash and or shower stations shall range between 15°C
and 38°C. The RIG OPERATOR shall maintain these eye wash stations in
good condition continually ready for use per SAES-B-69, “Eye Wash Station
and Showers”.
12. The RIG OPERATOR shall post identification signs to mark the location of all
emergency equipment such as emergency eye wash stations.
WORK SMART
Your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is your final protection against
accidents and injuries. Your special skills and safety attitude is your primary
protection against accidents and injuries.
B-5 CLOTHING
1. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that all his personnel wear clothing
suitable for the existing conditions and the work being performed. The RIG
OPERATOR shall specifically prohibit his personnel from working without
shirts or in short trousers.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 12 of 95 --

20. 2. RIG OPERATOR personnel shall not unnecessarily expose any part of the
body to substances which may be harmful or hazardous to the skin.
3. Where there is danger of contact with moving parts of machinery or in any
work process where a similar hazard exists:
(a) Close fitted clothing shall be worn,
(b) Head and facial hair shall be completely confined or cut short, and
(c) Dangling neckwear, jewelry, or other similar items shall not be worn.
B-6 RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
1. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that all respiratory protection equipment,
needed by or reasonably anticipated to be needed by his employees, is
provided. Those employees required to use this equipment must be trained
in its effective use. This training MUST include practice in the maintenance
and use of this equipment. This equipment may be provided by the
Contractor or by the COMPANY, depending upon the terms and conditions of
the contract.
2. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that the required respiratory protection
equipment is maintained and used as intended, and that it provides all
personnel with adequate protection against all anticipated hazardous
atmospheres.
3. Such respiratory protection equipment shall be readily available, maintained
in good working order, in a sanitary condition, and inspected every 30 days
per GI-1780.001.
4. Unless protected by respiratory protection equipment, no personnel shall be
allowed to enter any area:
(a) Where the oxygen content of the atmosphere is less than 20 per cent
by volume, or
(b) Where the atmosphere is contaminated or in danger of being
contaminated by any airborne substance that may be considered to be
harmful.
5. All respiratory protection equipment shall be a supplied air apparatus in the
form of:
(a) Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), or
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 13 of 95 --

21. (b) Hose-line work masks, including an emergency escape cylinder.
6. On all drilling and workover rigs operating in known hydrogen sulfide areas or
on any rig drilling a wildcat well, there shall be on each rig at least the
minimum amount of respiratory protection equipment required in the
drilling/workover contract.
7. Where respiratory protection equipment is or may be required to be worn in
areas which are or may be contaminated with substances immediately
dangerous to life or health, RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that excessive
facial hair which prevents effective sealing of the face shall be removed.
8. Refer to Section B-5, Appendix I for further information regarding Respiratory
Protective Equipment.
Section B-6 Appendix I:
REQUIREMENTS FOR MINIMAL ACCEPTABLE RESPIRATORY
PROTECTION PROGRAM
Each RIG OPERATOR shall develop and put into practice a respiratory
protection program that meets or exceeds the following criteria as per G.I.
1780.001.
1. Written standard operating procedures governing the selection and use of
respiratory protective equipment.
2. Respiratory protective equipment shall be selected on the basis of the
hazards to which the worker is exposed. The airborne hazards most likely to
be encountered in drilling and Workover operations are:
(a) Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) atmospheres that
require the use of supplied-air respiratory protection equipment. This
equipment includes the hose-line work masks, including an escape
cylinder, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The most
likely IDLH atmospheres that may be encountered at drilling and
workover locations are:
(1) Toxic vapors and gases, such as H2S.
(2) Atmospheres containing less than 20 per cent oxygen, by
volume.
(b) Corrosive or irritating particulate matter for which full-face filter mask
protection is required. It is very important the proper filters be used.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 14 of 95 --

22. 3. The user shall be instructed and trained by the RIG OPERATOR in the proper
use of respiratory protective equipment and their limitations. This training
must include:
(a) Instructions on the selection of the proper respiratory protection
equipment for each potential hazard an employee may encounter.
(b) Instructions in the wearing and use of this equipment. This training
MUST include drills in which the equipment is used and worn under
simulated emergency conditions. (BOP drills while wearing work
masks, for instance.)
(c) Proper cleaning and sanitizing of the equipment after it is worn and
used. It is very important each user of this equipment understands
how important it is to properly clean and sanitize this equipment after
each wearing, even for equipment that may be permanently assigned
to him.
4. Where possible, respiratory protective equipment should be assigned to
individual workers for their exclusive use.
5. Respiratory protective equipment shall be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Those issued for the exclusive use of one worker are to be cleaned after each
day's use, or more often if necessary. Those used by more than one worker
are to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use. Cleaning this
equipment must be included in the training and use of the equipment. Aside
from understanding how to use the equipment for maximum possible
protection, cleaning is of paramount importance.
6. A log shall be maintained by the RIG OPERATOR that documents the
cleaning and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment.
7. Respiratory protective equipment shall be stored in a convenient, clean and
sanitary location. One practical method for keeping this equipment clean and
ready for use is to cover the storage cases with a tear-away plastic trash
bags. This equipment must always be ready for immediate emergency use.
This is possible only if it is stored properly.
8. Respiratory protective equipment shall be inspected during cleaning. Worn or
deteriorated parts shall be replaced. Respiratory protective equipment for
emergency use, such as self-contained devices, shall be thoroughly
inspected by the RIG OPERATOR at least once a month and after each use.
Every rig inspection must include a careful inspection of all respiratory
protection equipment.
9. Appropriate surveillance of work area conditions and the degree of employee
exposure or stress shall be maintained. The RIG OPERATOR is responsible
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 15 of 95 --

23. for knowing what respiratory exposures may be present and must alert all
personnel when protective equipment is required. The level of exposure to a
given substance is determined by continuous area monitoring, personal
monitoring and warning devices, or from studying the Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) for each substance used on the location, The RIG
OPERATOR is responsible for requiring the use of the proper equipment at all
times when exposure limits exceed acceptable limits.
10. There shall be regular inspection and evaluation to determine the continued
effectiveness of the program. The RIG OPERATOR is responsible for his
respiratory protection program. In meeting that responsibility a RIG
OPERATOR must know that all equipment is in good condition and is ready
for use when needed. A part of every LOSS PREVENTION inspection will be
to evaluate the state of the entire respiratory protection program of each
location visited.
11. Persons should not be assigned to tasks requiring the use of respiratory
protective equipment unless it has been determined that they are physically
able to work while wearing the equipment. Any employee who may, in the
course of his employment, be required to wear respiratory protection
equipment must pass an annual examination by a competent medical staff.
This examination must include a pulmonary function test.
12. Compressed air used for breathing purposes shall comply with the standards
recommended in G.I. 1780.001.
COMPRESSORS
THE COMPRESSOR FOR SUPPLYING BREATHING AIR SHOULD MEET
THE REQUIREMENTS OF G.I. 1780.001.
1. Breathing air compressors should be equipped with necessary safety and
standby devices.
2. Breathing air compressors should be situated so as to avoid entry of
contaminated air.
3. They should be equipped with purifying sorbet beds and filters to further
assure greater air quality.
4. They must be equipped with alarms to indicate compressor failure and/or
overheating.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 16 of 95 --

24. 5. Oil lubricated compressors must have a high-temperature or carbon
monoxide alarm or both. If only a high-temperature alarm is used, the air
must be frequently tested for carbon monoxide to insure that the air meets the
specifications as described in G.I. 1780.001.
6. Air samples from the breathing air compressor shall be tested, at least once
in every six months, by an independent organization to ensure the air quality
continues to meet the following air purity standards:
AIR PURITY STANDARDS
Limits have been established for breathing air quality. Air suitable for human
respiration must meet minimum standards as established by various governing
bodies, including the Compressed Gas Association. The following chart provides
the maximum allowable contaminant allowed under the C.G.A. standard.
COMPONENT C.G.A. STANDARD
Oxygen % by volume 19 - 23%
Carbon Dioxide, by 0.10% max.
Volume (1000 ppm)
Carbon Monoxide 10 ppm
Oil Vapor (< 1 mg/liter @ STP)
Water Saturated
Odor None
Particulates and Solids None
The standards cited above are usually referred to as "Grade D", in reference to the
Compressed Gas Association Table No.1 These standards apply to compressed air
for use in filling open circuit breathing systems.
HOW MUCH BREATHING AIR?
In reality, each man should be trained and drilled to determine his own duration by
using the Self-contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) under extremely strenuous
working conditions.
Many factors come into play that may greatly reduce the rated duration; therefore,
one should not expect to obtain the exact time rating, without taking into
consideration the size of the person, physical condition, breathing habits, adequate
mask seal, etc.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 17 of 95 --

25. DECIMAL SYSTEM METRIC SYSTEM
(CUBIC FEET) (LITERS)
1 Cubic Foot of Air 28.3 Liters
One - 30 Minute Air Cylinder is 1,273.5 Liters by Volume
Equivalent to 45 Cubic Feet
300 Cubic Feet of Air 8,490.0 Liters by Volume
1 Cascade of 6-300 Cubic Foot of Air 50,940.0 Liters by Volume
Cylinders is equivalent to 1,800 Cubic
Feet
An Air Compressor with a 9.2 Cubic Foot 260.3 Liters by Volume
Delivery per Minute
It takes an air compressor, delivering 9.2 cubic feet of air per minute, 32 minutes to
fill one 300 cubic foot air cylinder, or 3 hours and 12 minutes to fill six 300 cubic foot
air cylinders without considering line fill time if compressor is more than 10 feet from
cylinders.
ONE MAN
One man using one 300 One 300 cu. ft. One man using one 300
cu. ft. cylinder at medium cylinder contains cu. ft. cylinder at
heavy work would last 8,490 liters of air. maximum work would last
approx. 3 hrs. 50 min. approx. 1 hour.
Six 300 cu. ft. cylinders 21 hrs. & 20 minutes 6 hrs. & 30 minutes
contain 50,940 liters of air
SIX MEN
One 300 cu. ft. Six men using one 300 Six men using one 300
cylinder contains cu. ft. cylinder at medium cu. ft. cylinder at
8,490 liters of air. heavy work would last maximum work would last
approx. 35 minutes. approx. 10 minutes.
Six 300 cu. ft. 3 hrs. & 50 minutes One hour
cylinders contain
50,940 liters of air.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 18 of 95 --

26. B-7 HYDROGEN SULFIDE SAFETY
1. All drilling and workover operations in known or suspect hydrogen sulfide
areas shall be conducted according to API RP 49, "Recommended Practices
for Safe Drilling of Wells Containing Hydrogen Sulfide" and with any
COMPANY rules. Also, these RIG OPERATORS shall comply with the
requirements of the following Appendices to this Section:
(Appendix I) SAUDI ARAMCO H2S CONTINGENCY PLAN
(For More Details, see chapter 8, section-C of the Drilling Manual.)
(Appendix II) SAUDI ARAMCO STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR
H2S OPERATIONS ON ALL ONSHORE DRILLING AND
WORKOVER RIGS
(Appendix III) SAUDI ARAMCO STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR
H2S OPERATIONS ON ALL OFFSHORE DRILLING AND
WORKOVER RIGS
2. On all drilling and workover operations in known or suspect hydrogen sulfide
areas, there shall also be some method for the passive monitoring of returns,
both gaseous and liquid, to anticipate the likely need for wearing protective
equipment. In all instances where there is no provision for adequately
monitoring the returns to anticipate the likely need for wearing protective
equipment, the ambient atmosphere shall be monitored:
(a) On the rig floor at the Driller's position and about 3 feet above the floor.
(b) At the top of the bell nipple.
(c) At the flowline opening to the shale shaker.
(d) The cellar or underneath the choke manifold, above the choke
manifold skid floor.
3. Wind indicating devices, such as wind socks, shall be provided and
maintained in good condition. They shall be conspicuously located so they
are visible from anywhere on the location.
4. The RIG OPERATOR shall adequately train all his personnel in the basic
fundamentals of hydrogen sulfide safety. This training must include:
(a) Characteristics of hydrogen sulfide and its toxicity.
(b) Detection and warning systems peculiar to the location.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 19 of 95 --

27. (c) Emergency procedures consisting of,
*** Designation of safe briefing areas.
*** Wearing and use of emergency breathing equipment.
*** Evacuation procedures.
*** Rescue procedures.
*** First aid for victims.
(d) Instructions in the inspection, maintenance, and use of assigned
respiratory protection equipment.
(e) This training MUST include drills in all these procedures so all
personnel on the location can quickly and effectively follow each of
these instructions when there is an actual, life-threatening emergency.
5. Refer to Section B-7, Appendices I, II and III for specific details regarding H2S
Safety Equipment and procedures.
Section B-7 Appendix I:
SAUDI ARAMCO H2S CONTINGENCY PLAN
1. The scope of the Aramco H2S Contingency Plan is to cover operations while
drilling, testing, and completing oil and gas wells that have a potential H2S
hazard as per SAES-B-062.
(a) The Drilling and Workover Operations Departments shall have the
responsibility for executing the plan.
1. The on-site Drilling Foreman shall be responsible for carrying
out the plan.
2. Drilling Engineering will develop and coordinate the procedures.
3. Loss Prevention can be consulted for advice &
recommendations on plan actions.
(b) Other Organizations will be advised of the operations by The Drilling
and Workover Operations Department.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 20 of 95 --

28. 1. Camp Management will be notified prior to starting operations.
2. Government Relations will be given a map covering the
surrounding area that might be affected in the event of an
emergency.
3. Government Relations may notify any possibly interested Saudi
Arabian Government (SAG) Authorities.
4. Drilling Engineering will coordinate this notification.
5. The Medical Department will be notified by the Drilling
Operations Department.
6. The Fire Department will be notified by the Drilling Operations
Department.
7. All installations within the area of Operations shall be noted and
the Management of possibly affected installations notified.
8. A detailed evacuation plan will be developed for any residential
area that might be remotely endangered if an emergency
condition develops.
Note: Drilling Engineering will coordinate the development of
this plan with Government Relations as per Saudi Aramco
Drilling Manual.
(c) Flaring of sour gas wells at night must be done with extreme caution
because:
1. Wind normally diminishes at sundown.
2. With little or no wind, it is impossible to disperse any escaped
H2S or SO2 from flares.
2. The BOP equipment, the wellhead equipment, the test equipment and the
safety equipment shall all conform to presently developed standards.
(a) The Class A 10,000 psi and 5,000 BOP equipment shall meet current
NACE Standard MR-01-75 for sour service.
(b) The tree, wellhead and all fittings exposed to H2S shall meet current
NACE Standard MR-01-75 for sour service.
(c) The wellhead, chokes, manifolds and flow lines shall meet the
standards for sour service.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 21 of 95 --

29. (d) The heater, test unit and all connections shall meet current NACE
Standard MR-01-75 for sour service.
(e) All flare lines and emergency blowdown lines will be staked or
otherwise secured gainst movement in the event of a mechanical
failure.
(f) The heater, if required, will be a minimum of 150 feet from the
wellhead and the test separator.
(g) Wellhead gas will not be used for controller gas, bottled nitrogen is
preferred over supply air for controls.
(h) During gas well production tests, two flare pits will be constructed
down wind from the location in the direction of prevailing wind and at
least 90º apart and 600 feet from the wellhead manifolds or any test
equipment. Minimum flare line size shall be two 3-1/2" J-55 lines to
each pit.
(i) Explosion-proof bug blowers shall be positioned to move air around
well and equipment.
3. As part of the H2S contingency plan, Emergency Safety and First Aid
Equipment shall be on location and conveniently located (in addition to
contractual requirements) in compliance with the following:
(a) Self-contained breathing apparatus will be located for emergency work
and escape.
(b) Cascade systems for work and recharge will be set up on location.
(c) Resuscitators, safety harnesses, safety ropes, first aid kits, splints and
litters will be on location.
(d) An H2S monitor with alarm systems and sensors at various locations
will be installed.
(e) Personal electronic H2S monitors, explosive meters, spot checks,
hand pump type H2S - SO2 detectors will be used.
(f) Wind socks, warning signs and flags as well as streamers in localized
areas will be in use.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 22 of 95 --

30. Section B-7 Appendix II:
SAUDI ARAMCO STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT
FOR H2S OPERATIONS ON ALL ONSHORE DRILLING
AND WORKOVER RIGS
1. H2S and Combustible Gas Monitors. (See also SAES-J-505 Combustible Gas
and Hydrogen Sulfide in Air Detection Systems). All personnel shall be
informed by the RIG OPERATOR of the hazards relating to Hydrogen Sulfide
and shall receive instruction in the correct use of any personal safety
equipment, Hydrogen Sulfide detectors, and warning systems associated with
the RIG OPERATOR‟S H2S equipment.
A. H2S Monitor and Alarm System
Two four channel H2S monitoring system with two visual-audio alarm
system shall be installed and fully operational on all land drilling rigs
operating on known or suspect H2S locations.
1. The sensors shall be located as near as practical to:
a. The top of the bell nipple.
b. The flowline opening to the shale shaker.
c. The Driller's position and about three feet above the floor.
d. The cellar or underneath the choke manifold above the
choke manifold skid floor. This sensor should be easily
moveable so that it can be used around the BOP stack or
at the well testing equipment when necessary.
2. The H2S alarm system (amber strobe lights and horn) shall be
set for first alarm at 10 ppm (visual) and high alarm at 20 ppm
(visual & audible). The alarm system shall be located in clearly
visible locations so that personnel in any work area can see
and/or hear at least one set. Audible alarms are to be included
inside the rig site living quarters.
3. One monitor shall be located in the doghouse and the other
located in the Supervisor or Toolpushers office.
4. There shall be minimum of one spare H2S sensor.
B. Combustible Gas Monitor and Alarm System
A continuous combustible gas monitor and alarm system with LEL
sensor, audible and visual alarms, and two continuous LEL monitors
shall be provided.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 23 of 95 --

31. 1. The sensor shall be located at either:
a. The top of the bell nipple, or
b. The flow line opening to the shale shaker when a rotating
head is in use.
2. The alarm system (red strobe light and horn) shall be set at 20%
(visual) of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) for the low alarm and
50% (visual & audible) of the LEL for the high level alarm. The
alarm system shall be clearly visible from work areas on
location. The alarm system (light and horn) shall be located on
the rig floor above the doghouse. Note: This setting criteria
applies to cold work situations only.
3. One monitor shall be located in the doghouse and the other
located in the Supervisor or Toolpushers office.
4. There shall be a minimum of one spare LEL sensor.
C. Two personal portable H2S monitors, alarm to be set at 10 ppm.
D. Two portable H2S detectors (hand pump suction type) with high level
and low level H2S and SO2 tubes.
E. Two portable combustible gas or vapor monitors.
F. Test Kit for checking H2S concentrations in water base & oil base mud.
2. Required Breathing Apparatus
A. Hose-line work units, with emergency escape cylinders, shall be
provided as follows:
1. Rig floor - six
2. On handrail near shale shaker - two
3. On rack near mud mixing area - two
4. Near choke manifold - one
5. In derrick for Derrickman (at monkey board) – two
Note: Derrick cascade supplied air hoses, shall be rigged in a
manner to allow continuous supply of air while ascending or
descending the derrick ladder.
B. Self contained breathing apparatus (30 min SCBA's) shall be provided
as follows:
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 24 of 95 --

32. 1. Toolpusher's office/quarters - two
2. Company Foreman's office/quarters - two
3. Logging Unit (when used) - two
4. SCR room - one
5. Rig Floor - three
C. At least one fully-charged spare cylinder shall be provided for each unit
of all type listed.
3. Emergency Safety Equipment
A. Three "Bug Blowers" explosion proof, high volume (40,000 cfm) and
moveable.
B. Three wind socks, two in service, plus streamers to be located so all
personnel will know wind direction. One wind sock is to be held as a
spare.
C. Flare line ignition system (Alex-500 or equivalent) with backup flare
gun and supply of 24 long self life cartridge.
D. Two portable oxygen resuscitator units, each with a spare oxygen
cylinder.
E. Two 25 man First Aid Kits, one at rig site and one at camp site.
F. Four eye wash stations located in the following areas:
1. On the rig floor or in the rig floor doghouse.
2. In the mud mixing area.
3. In the rig medic's office or the rig supervisor's office.
4. In the rig camp mess hall.
5. Water is to be potable and between 15 and 380C
G. Two safety harnesses with two 250 foot retrieval ropes to be worn by
search team for search and rescue operations under limited visibility.
H. Two basket-type stretchers (Stokes or Navy type litter) with blankets,
securing straps and lifting harnesses.
I. Two Quick-Air splint kits.
J. One portable bull horn with extra battery pack.
K. Six small chalk boards with clamps for mounting with an adequate
supply of chalk and erasers. Boards can be utilized as visual means of
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 25 of 95 --

33. coordinating activities when working under a SCBA. [Note: Dry eraser
boards may be substituted for chalk boards].
L. Flashlights - explosion proof with an extra set of batteries and extra
bulb for each (number to be at least one for each two persons in the
operation but not less than five).
NOTE:
All safety equipment with rubber, plastic or other parts likely to
deteriorate shall be stored in a dark air conditioned room near the
Foremen's office. Adequate supplies of sanitizing materials shall be
available for sanitizing face masks and other body contact equipment.
Section B-7 Appendix III:
SAUDI ARAMCO STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR H2S
OPERATIONS ON ALL OFFSHORE DRILLING AND WORKOVER RIGS
1. A continuous monitoring system with eight sensors and six beacon
lights/siren alarm systems, each with conductor cable, shall be provided. All
personnel shall be informed by the RIG OPERATOR of the hazards relating
to Hydrogen Sulphide and shall receive instruction in the correct use of any
personal safety equipment, Hydrogen Sulphide detectors, and warning
systems associated with the RIG OPERATOR‟S H2S equipment.
(a) All sensors must have protective housings capable of protecting the
sensor from accidental spray from rig wash down hoses and accidental
mud and/or oil splashes.
(b) Sensors shall be located as near as practical to:
1. The top of the bell nipple.
2. The flowline opening to the shale shaker.
3. The Drillers position and about three feet above the rig floor.
4. The mud pit in the pump area.
5. The motorman's work area in the motor room.
6. The living quarters area nearest the most likely source of
hydrogen sulfide.
7. The breathing apparatus compressor package, near the rig
floor.
8. A spare sensor system with 200 feet of cable on portable reel
shall be extra and will be used to monitor any other potential
source of hydrogen sulfide or kept on standby in designated
safety equipment storage area.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 26 of 95 --

34. (c) There shall be at least four spare H2S sensors.
(d) The H2S alarm system (amber strobe lights and horn) shall be set for
first alarm at 10 ppm (visual) and high alarm at 20 ppm (visual &
audible).
(e) The combustible gas alarm system (red strobe light and horn) shall be
set at 20% (visual) of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) for the low alarm
and 50% (visual & audible) of the LEL for the high level alarm.
Note: This setting criteria applies to cold work situations only.
(f) The H2S and LEL alarm system shall be located in a clearly visible
area so that personnel in any work area can see and/or hear at least
one set. They shall be located:
1. On the rig floor and at least eight feet above the floor.
2. On the port side at the corner of and above the quarters.
3. On the starboard side at the corner of and above the quarters.
4. Below deck in the pump-motor room area.
5. In crew quarters.
6. In the galley area.
(g) The monitor shall be located in the Supervisor's office, Control Room
or Radio Room.
2. A minimum of one hundred 30 minute SCBA's will be located on any offshore
rig operating in known or suspected H2S areas. There shall always be at
least 25% more SCBA onboard than the number of personnel.
(a) The 30 minute SCBA's shall be stored ready for use as follows:
1. There shall be one SCBA assigned to each person on board,
regardless of his affiliation, contractor, service contractor,
Aramco, or any visitor. These will be stored under the head-end
of the assigned bunk when the person is in the bunk and during
any period considered safe by the Supervisor. (If there is no
bunk assignment, the person will be assigned a SCBA and a
designated area for storage during his time on board.) Before
assignment of a SCBA to any person, he will demonstrate that
he is capable of donning it, adjusting the face piece, and turning
on the pressure demand air. This requirement shall be waived
for any personnel with documentation from his employer that he
has received training within the past 12 months in H2S safety,
including practice in donning respiratory protection equipment.
2. Ten SCBA's shall be stored in the dining area.
3. Four SCBA's shall be stored in the motor room or pump area.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 27 of 95 --

35. 4. Four SCBA's, each with clip-on communication device. Two
shall be in the Saudi Aramco Foreman's office and two in the
Rig Supervisor‟s office.
5. All remaining SCBA's and extra cylinders will be stored in an air
conditioned designated safety equipment storage area near the
Supervisor's office.
(b) The hose-line work units with escape cylinders shall be stored as
follows:
1. Six work units (three with clip-on communication devices) on the
rig floor in a convenient location.
2. Two work units each with a clip-on communication device in the
Supervisor's office.
3. Two work units each with a clip-on communication device in the
Saudi Aramco Foreman's office.
4. Two work units shall be located in the derrick at the
Derrickman's position, finger board or stabbing board.
Note: Derrick cascade supplied air hoses shall be rigged in a
manner to allow continuous supply of air while ascending or
descending the derrick ladder.
5. Five work units and 16 spare cylinders shall be stored in an air-
conditioned designated safety equipment storage area near the
Rig Supervisor's office.
6. Nine spare-clip communication device units with supply of spare
batteries will be stored with the five work units as above in #4.
3. Three cascade systems with 12 - 300 cubic foot cylinders each or equivalent
capacity; three air compressors each with purification system and capacity of
26 scfm at 2400 psi; one 3 outlet manifold and three 12 outlet manifolds; two
200 foot hoses; two - 150 foot hoses; twelve - 50 foot hoses; two 5000 psi
working pressure hoses (250 foot and 300 foot respectively).
(a) One cascade system with air compressor powered by an explosion
proof electric motor will be located near the rig floor
1. There shall be two six outlet manifold on the derrick floor.
2. There shall be a three outlet manifold at the Derrickman's
position.
3. There shall be a three outlet manifold in the mud room.
4. There shall be a three outlet manifold in the motor room.
5. There shall be a one six outlet manifold for recharging portable
cylinders, one at each cascade system.
6. There shall be a double tee with check valves for tying in either
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 28 of 95 --

36. or both of the other two systems.
(b) There shall be two cascade systems with diesel powered air
compressors, located as remotely from the rig floor as practical, one on
the upper starboard deck, the other on the upper port deck
1. There shall be one, six outlet manifold for recharging portable
cylinders at each cascade system, as well as regulators and low
pressure manifolds for hose line units.
2. There shall be a double tee with check valves for tying in either
or both of the other two systems.
(c) There shall be one 250 foot of 5000 psi w.p. hose; one 300 foot of
5000 psi w.p. hose; two 150 foot and twelve 50 foot hoses stored and
ready for immediate use in an air conditioned designated storage area.
4. Five personal portable H2S monitors, as well as stock of lead acetate
sampling devices.
5. A hydrogen sulfide calibrator suitable for the purpose of calibrating the fixed
and/or portable monitoring system.
6. Continuous H2S mud monitoring system. Garret Gas Train Sulfides Analysis
unit with supply of accessory equipment for testing water & oil based mud‟s
for H2S levels. A Drager Test Kit will be used to perform quantitative sulfide
analysis in conjunction with the Gas train system.
7. Four portable oxygen resuscitators with eight spare oxygen cylinders.
8. Four portable H2S - SO2 detectors, (suction type) with H2S and SO2 tubes.
9. Four portable combustible gas detectors - hand pump suction type.
10. Six bug blowers, explosion proof, high volume (25,000 cfm or larger) and
movable.
11. Wind socks (4 minimum), streamers, and flags to be located on various
places on rig so all personnel will know the wind direction.
12. Remote flare line ignition system (Alex-500 or equivalent).
13. One emergency flare gun with a supply of 24 cartridges will long shelf life will
be stored in a locked-up wooden box in the Company Foreman‟s office.
14. Four safety harnesses and four 250 feet retrieval ropes for search and rescue
operations under limited visibility.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 29 of 95 --

37. 15. Four stretchers (Stokes litter - Navy type basket or equivalent) with blankets
and securing straps.
16. Four first aid kits (each 25 man size).
17. Four Quick-Air splint kits or equivalent.
18. Six portable electronic bull horn speakers with six extra battery packs.
19. Six small chalk boards with clamps for mounting with an adequate supply of
chalk and erasers. Boards can be utilized as visual means of coordinating
activities when working under a SCBA. [Note: Dry eraser boards may be
substituted for chalk boards.]
20. Flashlights - explosion proof with extra set of batteries and extra bulb for each
(minimum number shall be 10 flashlights).
Note: All safety equipment with rubber, plastic or other parts like to
deteriorate shall be stored in an air conditioned, dark and designated area,
near the Supervisor's office. Adequate supplies of sanitizing material shall be
available for sanitizing face masks and other body contact equipment.
B-8 HOUSEKEEPING
1. Work areas, stairs and walkways shall not be obstructed by debris or stored
materials.
2. All walking and working surfaces shall be kept in good repair and free from
oil, mud, and other potentially slippery material.
3. The area around the base of the derrick ladder shall be kept clear to provide
unhampered access to the ladder.
4. The area around the rotary table shall be kept clear of obstacles; clean, and
free of tools, materials and any accumulation of oil, water, or circulating fluids.
5. Storage of material shall not create a hazard. Bags, containers, bundles, etc.,
stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, and limited in height so they are
stable and secure against sliding or collapse.
6. Storage areas shall be kept free from accumulation of materials that
constitute hazards from tripping, fire, or explosion.
7. Combustible materials, such as oily rags and waste, shall be stored in
approved covered metal containers.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 30 of 95 --

38. 8. The Area around the BOP controls shall be clear of materials to allow
unobstructed access.
B-9 RIG CAMPS: KITCHENS AND ACCOMMODATIONS (See Also G.I.
151.006 Implementing the Saudi Aramco Sanitary Code)
1. In addition to complying with applicable requirements for housekeeping and
fire extinguishing equipment, the RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that:
(a) Exhaust fans, hoods, filters, grease trays, and ductwork are cleaned
regularly to prevent a buildup of cooking grease and other flammable
material.
(b) Blades of exhaust and ventilation fans, if within 2.1 meters (7 feet) of
the floor, are equipped with proper guards to prevent employee
exposure.
(c) Each walk-in freezer is equipped with a working audible alarm to alert
other personnel should the door become stuck.
(d) Sanitation requirements published by the Saudi Aramco Preventive
Medicine Department are fully complied with.
2. Each cooking, sleeping, washing and toilet facility shall be kept clean and
sanitary.
3. The plumbing and mechanical appliances shall be kept in good working order.
4. Industrial Hygiene and Environmental Health inspections are required every 6
months to be performed by Saudi Aramco‟s Environmental Compliance
Department.
B-10 FIRE EXTINGUISHING EQUIPMENT
1. On every drilling or workover rig, the RIG OPERATOR shall have readily
accessible not less than the fire extinguishing equipment specified in the
Drilling/Workover Contract.
2. The RIG OPERATOR shall inspect fire extinguishers monthly, or more
frequently if necessary to ensure they are fully charged, kept in their
designated locations, and free from any obstructions. Inspection shall be
documented in an inspection log.
3. Fire fighting equipment shall not be tampered with and shall not be removed
for other than for fire fighting or for servicing. Extinguishers removed from the
premises to be recharged shall be replaced by spare extinguishers during the
period they are missing.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 31 of 95 --

39. 4. Carbon tetrachloride and other toxic vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers are
prohibited.
5. For each rig, the RIG OPERATOR shall prepare a fire control plan and the
plan shall be permanently exhibited on the rig.
6. Fixed fire extinguishing systems for each offshore rigs (including water,
carbon dioxide, dry powder, or foam) shall be kept in good working order and
available for immediate use at all times while engaged in drilling operations or
in transit.
7. Manual fire alarm stations shall be conspicuously located on each deck level
of offshore rigs.
8. A fire hose shall not be used for any purpose other than fire fighting, fire drills,
and testing.
9. Each fire hose shall be completely unrolled and inspected by the RIG
OPERATOR once each month and defective parts should be replaced. Fire
hoses shall be pressure-tested annually. (Refer to G.I. 1781.001-1 and
SAES-B-19).
10. The access to any fire hydrant shall not be blocked.
11. Each fire hydrant shall be equipped with a spanner wrench.
12. Each fire hose shall be properly stored on a rack or reel when not in use.
13. Each fire nozzle shall either be attached to the hose or stored next to the fire
hydrant to which the fire hose is attached.
14. Each hose water nozzle provided shall be of an approved dual purpose type
(i.e. spray jet type) incorporating a shutoff.
15. Each hose on a helicopter deck that discharges foam shall have a nozzle that
has a foam stream, foam spray, and off position.
16. Each fire station on an offshore rig shall be properly identified by marking:
"FIRE STATION NO. " next to the station in letters at least 5 centimeters
(2 inches) high.
17. On each offshore rig, there shall be, at all times at least two RIG OPERATOR
personnel who are trained in the use of a Fire Fighter Aircraft Crash Rescue
Equipment.
18. A crash rescue box is to be permanently located in an area readily accessible
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 32 of 95 --

40. to the heliport. This box is to be highly visible and designated exclusively for
crash equipment. The minimum required contents shall comply with the Saudi
Aramco Aviation Department‟s “Helideck Crash Box Inventory List”. (Section
B-10 Appendix II)
19. Additional information on requirements is available in specific Rig Contracts
(See Schedule „G‟ Attachment 1) and the following Section B-10 Appendix I
& II
Section B-10 (Appendix I)
FIRE PROTECTION AND CONTROL EQUIPMENT
1. Nine 30-lb dry chemical „UL‟ listed per (GI 1981 & SAES-B-19) BC
extinguishers provided for extinguishing of localized fires located and
mounted as follows, in compliance with or addition to contractual
requirements:
(a) Two on rig floor at control station.
(b) One in shaker area.
(c) One on mud pump skid.
(d) Two in drawworks area.
(e) One on generator trailer.
(f) One inside tool room.
(g) One in the area of the gasoline fuel tank.
2. Two 10-lb carbon dioxide extinguishers located and mounted on the
generator trailer.
3. One 150-lb wide wheel type „UL‟ Listed BC type "Purple K" dry chemical fire
extinguisher located at a minimum of 75 feet from the wellhead and/or mud,
diesel tanks.
4. One fixed 1-1/4" live hose reel with 125 feet of 1-1/4" hose for delivery of
water to the rig floor, cellar and mud tank area. The unit should be centrally
mounted to adequately cover the rig and associated equipment.
5. One Type 2A 10 BC extinguisher located in Foreman‟s trailer.
6. 2 each complete fire protection suits.
7. Suitable connection to allow fire truck to take water from the rig water supply.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 33 of 95 --

41. Section B-10 (AppendixII)
HELIDECK CRASH BOX EQUIPMENT INVENTORY LIST
1. Rubber Safety Boots………………..……………………. 3 pairs
2. Fireman‟s coat…………………………………………….. 3 each
3. Fireman‟s Helmet with eye shield……………………….. 3 each
4. Bolt cutter 36”……………………………………………. 1 each
5. Pick-headed Axe………………………………………….. 2 each
6. Nylon Rope, ½”……………………………………………. 1 roll 50‟ & 1 roll 100‟
7. Safety Goggles……………………………………………. 1roll 50‟ & 1 roll 100‟
8. Hacksaw 12”……………….……………………………… 2 each
9. Hacksaw blades…………………………………………... 4 each
10. Fire Blanket………………………………………………... 2 each
11. Large first aid kit…………………………………………... 1 each
12. “Hooligan” tool, 36”……………………………………….. 1 each
13. Firemen‟s Crowbar, 51”………………………………….. 1 each
14. Safety Rescue Knife……………………………………… 1 each
15. Grapnel Hook……………………………………………… 1 each
16. Water-Jet Fire Blanket (72” x 60”)………………………. 2 each
17. Water-Jet mini-wrap (18” x 8a”)…………………………. 2 boxes (5each/box)
18. Fireman‟s (Fire craft) Gloves (fingered) size L………… 3 pairs
19. Handheld Spotlight lantern (explosive proof)………….. 3 each
20. Hand Tool/Utilities Bag…………………………………… 3 each
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 34 of 95 --

42. B-11 TRUCK LOADING AND UNLOADING
1. Before pumping hydrocarbons between two units, the units shall first be
electrically bonded together and grounded.
2. The bonding connector and the grounding conductor from the unit to earth
shall remain effectively attached until all pumping connections have been
removed.
3. While tank trucks containing flammable, vaporizing liquids are being
connected or disconnected, no vehicle shall start up or have its motor running
in the loading area.
4. When liquid in a tank contains or is likely to contain hydrogen sulfide,
personnel required to gauge the liquid are required to wear proper respiratory
protective equipment.
B-12 FUEL TANKS
1. Except for diesel fuel and the fuel in the tanks of operating equipment, no
gasoline or other liquid fuel shall be stored within 22.9 meters (75 feet) of a rig
or its auxiliary equipment that could be a potential ignition source.
2. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that all fuel tanks are conspicuously
marked as to contents.
3. The RIG OPERATOR shall ensure that neither smoking, open flame or cell
phones are allowed within 7.6 meters (25 feet) of the handling of flammable
liquids. A notice shall be conspicuously posted.
4. Dispensing nozzles and valves shall be of the self-closing type. Drip pans
shall be provided and used when needed.
5. Fuel tanks shall be located where they are not subject to physical damage
from vehicles. Where this is not possible, barrier protection shall be provided.
6. Drainage from any fuel storage shall be in a direction away from the rig. Rig
"day tanks" may be located on the level well site but they must be so located
that, should they rupture, the resulting fuel spillage will not drain toward the
well.
7. A fire extinguisher, approved for extinguishing petroleum fires, shall be readily
accessible at a safe permanently designated and highly visible location, in
close proximity to each fuel storage tank.
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 35 of 95 --

43. 8. Label Emergency fuel shut off.
9. All valves on fuel tank are to be (1/4 turn) Ball Type.
10. Fuel tanks should be supplied with appropriate vents without any bends.
B-13 BULK STORAGE TANKS
1. All bulk storage tanks shall be equipped with safety relief valves and/or
rupture discs so as to prevent excess pressure. Rupture discs can only be
used for bulk storage tanks in open areas where drainage is to a safe area.
2. Bulk storage tanks in enclosed areas shall be equipped with testable safety
relief valves which can be vented out of the area. Such enclosed areas shall
be ventilated so that a pressure build-up will not occur if a break or a leak in
the air supply system occurs.
3. All safety relief valves shall be function tested at least every three months.
4. A proper means of access shall be provided to each bulk storage tank.
5. Each bulk storage tank shall be clearly marked as to contents.
B-14 CONTROL OF STATIC ELECTRICITY
1. When transferring flammable liquids or finely divided flammable or explosive
materials from one container to another the containers shall be in firm contact
with each other or be continuously electrically bonded throughout the transfer
so as to prevent the accumulation of a static charge.
2. When tanks, mixers, or processing vessels are used for flammable liquids or
flammable or explosive compounds, they shall be electrically bonded and
grounded while being filled or emptied.
B-15 HANDLING AND STORAGE OF COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDERS
1. Gas cylinders shall be secured in an upright position and shall be separated
in storage as to full and empty cylinders. All oxidizers shall be separated from
fuel gases by at least 6.1 meters (20 feet).
2. Valve protection caps shall be installed on all cylinders at any time a regulator
is not attached.
3. When gas cylinders are hoisted, they shall be secured on a cradle, sling
REV. JUNE 2004 Safety Requirement for
Drilling & Workover Rigs
-- Page 36 of 95 --