The Derrickman Course is designed for individuals looking to step into the highly skilled role of a derrickman in the oil and gas industry. As a key position in the drilling crew, the derrickman is responsible for maintaining the drilling fluid (mud) system, handling pipes from the derrick, and assisting the driller in crucial operations. This course equips participants with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to perform these tasks safely and efficiently, both on land and offshore rigs.
What You’ll Learn:
- Introduction to Derrickman Responsibilities: Understand the role of the derrickman and their importance in the overall drilling process. Learn about working at heights, maintaining mud systems, and managing equipment on the derrick.
- Mud System Operations: Gain in-depth knowledge of drilling fluids (mud), their composition, and the role they play in well control, lubrication, and cooling. Learn how to monitor, maintain, and adjust mud properties for safe and effective drilling operations.
- Mud Pumps & Circulation System: Learn how to operate and maintain mud pumps, ensuring proper circulation of fluids through the wellbore. Understand how to identify and troubleshoot common issues with the mud system.
- Handling Drill Pipe & Casing: Develop the skills to safely handle drill pipes and casing during tripping operations. This includes working in the derrick to guide pipe into and out of the wellbore, as well as assisting in connecting and disconnecting pipes.
- Working at Heights: Understand the safety protocols for working on the derrick, including the use of harnesses and fall protection equipment. Learn techniques for climbing, positioning, and working on platforms high above the rig floor.
- Well Control Principles: Build a solid foundation in well control, focusing on the role of the derrickman in maintaining mud weight and pressure during drilling. Learn how to detect signs of well instability and support the crew in preventing blowouts.
- Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Learn how to inspect and maintain critical equipment, including mud tanks, agitators, and shale shakers. Gain the skills to troubleshoot common issues and keep equipment functioning smoothly.
- Safety Procedures & Emergency Response: Master essential safety protocols, including responding to rig emergencies, evacuations, and equipment failures. Learn how to handle hazardous materials and follow environmental regulations for fluid disposal.
Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for:
- Floormen seeking to advance their careers and take on the role of derrickman
- Experienced rig workers looking to enhance their technical expertise in mud systems and well control
- Individuals interested in working in highly skilled positions in drilling operations
- Safety officers and supervisors wanting to deepen their knowledge of derrick-related operations
Course Benefits:
Upon completing the Derrickman Course, participants will:
- Gain specialized skills for managing the mud system and maintaining well control during drilling operations
- Be fully prepared to handle the physical and technical demands of working on the derrick
- Understand safety protocols for working at heights and maintaining rig equipment
- Be equipped to assist the driller and crew in efficient and safe drilling operations
- Improve career prospects in the oil and gas industry, with opportunities to progress to roles such as Assistant Driller or Driller
This course combines practical training on working with drilling fluids and rig equipment with a strong emphasis on safety, ensuring participants are well-prepared to excel in the role of a derrickman.
