Recommended Guidelines

Pre-task DROPS Assessments, Checks and

Precautions

DROPS GLOBAL
e: [email protected]
t : +44 (0)1224 861811 f: +44 (0)1224 861812
w: www.dropsonline.org
Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

Published by DROPS (Dropped Object Prevention Scheme), the industry wide

initiative dedicated to improving dropped object performance.

Revision Record

Revision Date Comment Issued by:

00 07.07.2010 Draft Issue to Steering Committee DROPS

01 04.08.2010 Issued for Use DROPS

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION 1

2 STATIC AND DYNAMIC DROPPED OBJECTS 1

3 TASK PLANNING 3

4 BEFORE STARTING WORK 4

5 WORKING AT HEIGHT 4

6 TASKS INVOLVING LOADING OR LIFTING 5

7 TASK COMPLETION 5

8 LIFT PLANS 5

9 COLLISION CHECKLISTS 6

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1 INTRODUCTION

All installations and facilities should adequately identify and assess the potential for dropped objects,
and implement effective preventive and mitigating control measures through a formal Dropped Object
Management System.

Although the Dropped Object Management System is the primary tool in preventing dropped objects,
there is also a fundamental requirement that all personnel remain vigilant and considerate of dropped
object hazards before, during and after every task performed.

These guidelines detail some important considerations, precautions, checks and procedures. They
are not exhaustive and should be supplemented with additional checks and processes specific to the
individual location, task and environment.

2 STATIC AND DYNAMIC DROPPED OBJECTS

There are two types of dropped objects; static and dynamic; and their classification is defined as
follows:

• Static – any object that falls from its previous static position under its own weight.

• Dynamic – any object that falls from its previous static position due to applied force from
equipment/machinery or moving object.

Static and dynamic dropped objects demand differing approaches in respect of their preventive
controls and mitigating measures. Tables 1 and 2 present the common measures and controls for
each type with reference to relevant procedures / guidance.

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STATIC DROPPED OBJECTS

Preventive Controls
Preventive Maintenance Tasks (ref DROPS Best Practice)
Calendar-based Dropped Objects Inspections (ref DROPS Best Practice)
Primary Fixing and Secondary Retention Devices (ref DROPS Reliable Securing Booklet)
Independent Dropped Object Surveys (ref DROPS Best Practice)
Dropped Object Inspection (Picture) Books (ref DROPS Best Practice)

Mitigating Measures
Safety Securing (ref DROPS Reliable Securing Booklet)
Effective Use of Barriers (ref DROPS Best Practice)
Restricted Access Areas (ref DROPS Guidelines for Restricted Access Areas)

Table 1 Static Dropped Objects - Preventive Controls and Mitigating Measures

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DYNAMIC DROPPED OBJECTS

Preventive Controls
Individual Awareness
Effective Task Planning (incl Lift Plans)
Collision Checklists
Pre-task Assessment and Checks (ref DROPS Prompt Card)
Observation and Vigilance (ref DROPS Training and Hazard Hunts)
Management of Change
Time Out For Safety (TOFS)
Management of Distractions
Tools Aloft Log Book (ref DROPS Guidelines for Tools at Height)
Subcontractor Equipment Inspections

Mitigating Measures
Individual Awareness
Use of Approved Tools for Working at Height (ref DROPS Guidelines for Tools at
Height))
PA Announcements / Warnings (eg overhead operations, crane operations, work in
derrick, etc)
Effective Use of Barriers (ref DROPS Campaign Workpack)
Restricted Access Areas (ref DROPS Guidelines for Restricted Access Areas)

Table 2 Dynamic Dropped Objects - Preventive Controls and Mitigating Measures

In the case of static dropped objects, it is clear that a Dropped Objects Management System is the
most effective preventive tool. Over recent years, most organizations have now implemented some
form of Dropped Objects Management System and this has resulted in a significant reduction in static
dropped objects throughout the Oil & Gas and Marine Industries.

However, with dynamic dropped objects, we have not witnessed the same decline in frequency. This
is because the preventive controls and mitigation measures for dynamic dropped objects are far more
behaviour-based. They rely on the individual vigilance, caution, planning and awareness of each of
us.

3 TASK PLANNING

For all tasks, routine or otherwise, a plan should be developed with appropriate assessment of the
risk of potential dropped objects and other hazards. The plan should identify all potential dropped
objects and implement preventive and mitigating controls to prevent their occurrence.

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

The plan should provide for continuous observation and monitoring of the task, as well as ‘Time Out
for Safety’ (planned or unplanned).

While undertaking the task, changes must be monitored, evaluated and appropriately responded to.
This may require revision of the plan or development of a new plan, but in all cases work should be
suspended if the task cannot be safely continued.

4 BEFORE STARTING WORK

Before commencing any task and even with the task plan in place (see Task Planning), it is important
to consider the potential for dropped objects:

• Consider the environment where you will perform the task and any other activities that may
be going on around you.

• Review any Lift Plan or Collision Checklist, as appropriate.

• Visually inspect the work area for loose items and debris. Check the equipment and
structures in the work area to ensure that any fasteners, bolting, covers etc are properly
secured.

• Check that secondary retention is in place for all items secured above the work area, eg
lighting, PA equipment etc.

See Appendix 1 – DROPS Pre-task Checklist.

5 WORKING AT HEIGHT

When working at height, the potential for dropped objects is greater and continuous vigilance is
critical:

• Use only tools and equipment approved for work at height, including the appropriate lanyards
and toolbags, and always log tools in and out on the tool register.

• Set up barriers beneath the work area and ensure the extent of the barriered zone is
appropriate to the work height, with due consideration of the potential deflection or ‘bounce’
of a dropped object.

• Check grating is secure and use mats where there is the potential for small items to fall
through grating.

• Where a scaffolding platform is employed, ensure toe-boards are installed.

• Remain vigilant of other activities going on around you and below you.

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6 TASKS INVOLVING LOADING OR LIFTING

Where the task involves loading or lifting, a Lifting Plan may be necessary as part of the pre-task
planning process and additional checks will be required:

• Ensure the lifting equipment, carrier or packaging is appropriate for the task and in good
order.

• Ensure containerized loads are properly stacked, stored and secured.

• Check tubulars for items left inside and employ cap ends, where practicable.

• Check tops of containers and fork lift pockets for loose items and debris.

For tasks involving packing and handling of cargo, refer to Appendix 5 – Example Packing and
Handling Checklist.

7 TASK COMPLETION

On completion of the task, it is essential to leave the worksite safe and tidy:

• Clear all scrap, debris and loose items from the worksite.

• Return all tools and complete the Tools Aloft Log.

• Remove all temporary barriers and signage.

• Note and communicate any lessons learned in undertaking the task.

8 LIFT PLANS

Prior to any lifting operation, it is essential that certain precautions are taken. For routine lifts, these
precautions are detailed in our documented procedures, but for all non-routine activities, a Lifting
Plan and an associated risk assessment must be developed. See Appendix 4.

As well as assuring that all personnel involved in the lift are clearly aware of the operation and their
roles / responsibilities, these procedures and Lift Plans ensure that:

• Checks are always carried out in accordance with industry standards

• Lifting equipment is certified for current use

• Restrictions and fastenings are removed

• Effective communication systems are in place

• There is adequate light and space to undertake the activity.

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

A toolbox talk must always be held before any lifting operation to discuss the task in detail and
identify all potential hazards and mitigate the risks, including the potential for dropped objects.

9 COLLISION CHECKLISTS

Collision checklists are recommended for installations and facilities with cranes, derricks, towers or
tall structures housing moving equipment. For a typical drilling rig or offshore installation, it is
recommended that a Crane Operator’s Collision Checklist is developed for each crane along with a
Driller’s Collision Checklist. See Appendices 2 and 3 for examples.

The Collision Checklist is effectively a prompt card for the equipment operator to review before
undertaking a task. It highlights all possible obstructions that may result in a dynamic dropped object
if there were a collision.

For cranes, the Collision Checklist should identify any equipment that a load could collide with during
a lifting operation. The checklist may be organized by boom angles and it must be readily available at
the crane controls.

For Drilling, the Collision Checklist should include any equipment that may obstruct the path of the
blocks and any equipment suspended from the blocks. This includes equipment that is normally out
of the path, but may be moved into a position where a collision may occur. The Driller’s Collision
Checklist must be readily available at the Driller’s and Assistant Driller’s controls.

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

APPENDIX 1
DROPS PRE-TASK CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU START ANY TASK, CONSIDER THE POTENTIAL FOR DROPPED
OBJECTS:

Even if your task is not at height, consider the environment where you will perform the ask
and any other activities that may be going on around you.
Before work commences, visually inspect the work area for loose items and debris

Check the equipment and structures in the work area to ensure that any fasteners, bolting,
covers etc are properly secured.
Check that secondary retention is in place for all items secured above the work area, eg
lighting, PA equipment etc
Check that secondary retention is in place for all items secured above the work area, eg
lighting, PA equipment etc

WHEN WORKING AT HEIGHT:

Use only tools and equipment approved for work at height, including the appropriate
lanyards and toolbags, and always log tools in and out on the tool register
Set up barriers beneath the work area and ensure the extent of the barriered zone is
appropriate to the work height
Check that grating is secure and use mats where there is the potential for small items to fall
through grating
Where a scaffolding platform is employed, ensure toeboards are installed.

Remain vigilant of other activities going on around you and below you

WHERE THE TASK INVOLVES LOADING OR LIFTING:

Ensure the lifting equipment, carrier or packaging is appropriate for the task and in good
order.
Ensure containerised loads are properly stacked, stored and secured

Check tubulars for items left inside and employ cap ends where practicable

Check tops of containers and fork lift pockets for loose items and debris

WHEN WORK IS COMPLETE:

Clear all scrap, debris and loose items from the worksite and return all tools, before
removing barriers

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

APPENDIX 2
EXAMPLE DRILLER’S COLLISION CHECKLIST

IMPORTANT: The above checklist is an example only. It is imperative that a specific Driller’s
Collision Checklist is developed (through formal risk assessment) for each individual
installation.

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

APPENDIX 3
EXAMPLE CRANE OPERATOR’S COLLISION CHECKLIST

IMPORTANT: The above checklist is an example only. It is imperative that a specific Crane
Operator’s Collision Checklist is developed (through formal risk assessment) for
each individual crane.

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APPENDIX 4
EXAMPLE LIFT PLAN TEMPLATE

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APPENDIX 4
EXAMPLE LIFT PLAN TEMPLATE (continued)

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Recommended Guidelines - Pre-task DROPS Assessment, Checks and Precautions

APPENDIX 5
EXAMPLE PACKING AND HANDLING CHECKLIST

BOXED / CONTAINER CARGO:

Check suitability and integrity of box/palette/container.

Check Forklift Pockets are clear of debris (rocks, gravel etc)

Check top of load/container for unsecured items (left tools, wooden chocks etc)

Check all horizontal ledges of load/container for unsecured items and debris (wood, litter,
tools etc)
Check all lids/covers are closed and secured

Check all retaining covers/nets are in place and secure

Check excessive ice and water has been cleared

OPEN FRAMED LIFTS

Check in and around the structure/base of open framed lifts (left tools, plugs, litter etc)

Check for protruding items that can be snagged/sheared (couplings, eyes etc).

Check all valve caps/screw caps are closed and secured.

Check all lids/covers are closed and secured

Check all retaining covers/nets are in place and secure

Check excessive ice and water has been cleared.

TUBULARS AND OTHER SPECIAL LOADS

Check pipe bundles internally and remove debris (wooden pieces, litter, left tools etc).

Check all end caps and thread protectors are securely fastene

Check all lids/covers are closed and secured.

Check all retaining covers/nets are in place and secure.

Check all load bundles externally for unsecured items (left tools, wooden chocks etc)

Check excessive ice and water has been cleared

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NOTES:

1. Additional checks to be carried out by truck drivers, crane operators, ships masters etc in
accordance with industry standards to ensure all cargo freight is properly secured during
transit.

2. Prior to carrying out any lifting operations, always refer to documented procedures for routine
lifts or the lifting plan and associated risk assessment for non-routine activities.

3. Checks must always be carried out in accordance with industry standards to ensure all lifting
equipment is certified for current use, restrictions and fastenings are removed, effective
communication systems are in place and there is adequate light and space to undertake the
activity.

4 A toolbox talk will be held before any lifting operation to discuss the task in detail and identify
all potential hazards and mitigate the risks, including the potential for dropped objects
controls.

APP-7