Geothermal Exploration Well Drilling Safety Checklist

This geothermal exploration well drilling safety checklist ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 (PSM for H2S and high-pressure steam hazards), API Recommended Practice 49 (Drilling of Wells Containing H2S), BLM Geothermal Drilling Requirements, state geothermal exploration well permit conditions, and well control standards. Designed for geothermal drilling supervisors and HSE personnel to verify safe drilling operations during geothermal exploration and development.

  • Industry: Renewable Energy
  • Frequency: Daily
  • Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Role: Drilling Supervisor / HSE Officer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 Process Safety Management, API RP 49 Drilling of Wells Containing H2S, BLM Geothermal Drilling Requirements (43 CFR Part 3250), State Geothermal Exploration Well Permit Conditions, IADC Well Control Principles

H2S Safety

Hydrogen sulfide drilling safety per API RP 49.

  • Fixed and portable H2S monitors calibrated and operational?
  • All rig personnel wearing personal H2S monitors?
  • Sufficient SCBA sets available for all crew members?
  • Wind socks visible and indicating wind direction for muster point?
  • H2S Contingency Plan posted on rig floor and reviewed at shift?

Well Control Equipment

Blowout preventer and well control readiness.

  • BOP stack tested per drilling program (weekly minimum)?
  • Choke manifold and kill line functional?
  • Mud pit level monitored for gains/losses (kick indicators)?
  • Mud weight within drilling program specification?
  • Kill sheets current and available on rig floor?

Rig Safety

General drilling rig safety.

  • Derrick and substructure inspection current?
  • Fall protection in place at derrick board and monkey board?
  • Rotating equipment guards in place (rotary table, cathead)?
  • Hot work permit required in geothermal fluid zones?
  • Rig crew wearing correct PPE (hardhat, safety boots, glasses)?

Environmental Protection

Environmental controls during drilling.

  • Secondary containment for mud pits and chemical storage?
  • Drill cuttings managed per state permit requirements?
  • Mud logging and formation fluid characterization ongoing?
  • Spill prevention and response plan (SPCC) on site?
  • Drilling log completed per BLM/state requirements?

Crew Competency and Training

Drilling crew qualifications.

  • Drilling crew IWCF/IADC well control certificates current?
  • All crew H2S trained (NORM, API RP 49 awareness)?
  • Toolpusher/Driller licenses current per state requirements?
  • Crew trained on rig-specific BOP operation procedures?
  • Well control and H2S emergency drill conducted this week?

Shift Log

Daily drilling operations log.

  • Daily drilling report complete?
  • BLM/state weekly reports current?
  • Any well control incidents or kicks reported to agency?
  • Safety incidents documented and reported?
  • Drilling Shift Notes

Related Renewable Energy Checklists

Related Geothermal Checklists

Why Use This Geothermal Exploration Well Drilling Safety Checklist?

This geothermal exploration well drilling safety checklist helps renewable energy teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for drilling supervisor / hse officer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: daily.

Ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.119 Process Safety Management, API RP 49 Drilling of Wells Containing H2S, BLM Geothermal Drilling Requirements (43 CFR Part 3250), State Geothermal Exploration Well Permit Conditions, IADC Well Control Principles. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Geothermal Exploration Well Drilling Safety Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: H2S Safety, Well Control Equipment, Rig Safety, Environmental Protection, Crew Competency and Training, Shift Log. It is designed for renewable energy operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Who should use this Geothermal Exploration Well Drilling Safety Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Drilling Supervisor / HSE Officer professionals in the renewable energy industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists