Investigation Report
Top-Drive Actuator Plate Fell After Securing Bolts Sheared
01-25-2015 01:00 G16765 GC 610 Dropped Object / Equipment Failure
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Dropped objectsMechanical failure
- DrillingInspection and maintenance
- Rotating machinery
- Exclusion zonesSafety communication
- Upstream oil and gas
Summary
An investigation describes a top-drive actuator plate falling approximately 90 feet after its securing bolts sheared. Tight clearances allowed impacts between actuator plates and lever arms during drilling. Red Zone restrictions kept personnel clear. Manufacturer corrective work included grinding impact-prone areas and repositioning the lever-arm fork assembly.
Classifications: Dropped objects; falling objects; DROPS.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Drilling; well drilling.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Rotating machinery; rotating equipment.
Classifications: Exclusion zones; red zones; restricted access zones.
Classifications: Safety communication; toolbox talk; toolbox talks.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.