SP-2097 Drops

Petroleum Development Oman L.L.C.
Prevention of Dropped Objects

Document ID SP-2097
Document Type Specification
Security Restricted (Information Security Classification Definitions)
Discipline Well Engineering
Owner Wells Corporate Functional Discipline Head
Issue Date November 2021
Version Version No.4
Link http://cms.portal.corp.pdo.om/Published/SP-2097.pdf (Intranet)
Keywords: Dropped Objects, DROPS Forum, forbidden equipment and practices

This document is the property of Petroleum Development Oman, LLC. Neither the whole nor any
part of this document may be disclosed to others or reproduced, stored in a retriaeval system, or
transmitted in any form by any means (electronic, mechanical, reprographic recording or
otherwise) without prior written consent of the owner.
Revision: 4.0
Petroleum Development Oman LLC Effective: Nov. 2021
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The controlled version of this CMF Document resides online in Livelink®. Printed copies are UNCONTROLLED.
Revision: 4.0
Effective: Nov. 2021 Petroleum Development Oman LLC
i Document Authorisation
Authorised For Issue: November 2021

Document Authorisation
Document Authority Document Custodian Document Author

MAIMANI,SALMAN UWH Abraham, Arun UWZ2 Abraham, Arun UWZ2
Date : 13-11-2021 8:58 PM Date : 11-11-2021 4:04 PM Date : 11-11-2021 3:59 PM
Printed 14/11/2021 SP-2097 – WE Specification for the Prevention of Dropped Objects Page 3
The controlled version of this CMF Document resides online
Livelink®. Printed copies are UNCONTROLLED.
Revision: 4.0
ii Revision History
The following is a brief summary of the 4 most recent revisions to this document. Details of all
revisions prior to these are held on file by the issuing department.
Note that changes made as part of Document Maintenance (correction of broken hyperlinks) will
not be recorded in this Revision Table.
Revision No. Date Author/ Editor Changes/ Remarks

4 November Arun Abraham,  Aligned definition Primary
2021 UWZ/2 fixing, Safety Securing &
Secondary retention with
DROPS & OPAL
 Added a section on
recommended practices
 Updated Assurance section to
align with assurance
framework
 Updated the training section
 Derrick Equipment at height
register to Equipment at height
register
 Guideline for Tubular handling
checklist
3 November Arun Abraham,  Added statement in Chapter
2017 UWZ/2
2 March 2016 Mahmoud Al-  Included Dynamic Drops
Shukri, UWZ, Arun controls
Abraham, UWZ/2
 included training requirements
1 October 2009 Ray Corbett This document constitutes the
adoption of Shell’s Dropped
Objects Manual within PDO.
iii Related Business Processes

Code Business Process (EPBM V.4.0)
EP.63 Design, Drill, Modify, Service and Abandon Well
iv Related Corporate Management Frame Work (CMF)

Documents
The related CMS Documents can be retrieved from the Corporate Management System (CMS)
Portal and the Wells Standards Portal on the PDO Intranet. The “Simplified HSE Management
System is available under “Applications on the PDO home page” under “HSE” and carries the title
“Simplified HSE Management System”
Contractors can access CMS documents via the PDO Extranet – “CMS Documents relevant to
Wells Contractors”. Contract Holders shall request access for named contractors to the PDO
Extranet for the contract period. The “Simplified HSE Management System is available on the
Internet through PDO’s home page, www.pdo.co.om under
Revision: 4.0
http://www.pdo.co.om/hseforcontractors in the category “General” under the title “Simplified HSE

MS”.
The (Senior) Wells/ CWI Engineer in charge of any work unit is accountable for ensuring that
CMS documents are accessible on the work unit, normally through access to PDO’s Intranet.
Revision: 4.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
i Document Authorisation ......................................................................................................... 3
ii Revision History ...................................................................................................................... 4
iii Related Business Processes .................................................................................................. 4
iv Related Corporate Management Frame Work (CMF) Documents......................................... 4
1 Background and Introduction .................................................................................................. 8
1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................................. 8
1.2 Definitions ......................................................................................................................... 8
Dropped Object .......................................................................................................................... 8
1.3 Scope of Application of this Specification ......................................................................... 9
1.3.1 Operations ....................................................................................................... 9
1.3.2 Structures ........................................................................................................ 9
1.3.3 Exclusions ....................................................................................................... 9
1.4 Review and Improvement ................................................................................................. 9
1.5 Management of Change ................................................................................................... 9
2 Mandatory requirements for a Dropped Objects Prevention Scheme (drops) ..................... 10
2.1 Principle 1: DROPS Management Program ................................................................... 10
2.2 Principle 2: DROPS Inspection ....................................................................................... 10
2.3 Principle 3: DROPS Works Site Hazard management ................................................... 11
2.3.1 Prevention of Dynamic Dropped Objects Lifting and Hoisting ...................... 11
2.3.2 Prevention of Static Dropped Objects ........................................................... 12
2.3.3 DROPS Red Zones & Temporary No Go Zones .......................................... 13
2.3.4 DROPS Red Zone ......................................................................................... 13
2.3.5 DROPS Temporary No-Go Zone .................................................................. 13
2.3.6 Zone Maps .................................................................................................... 14
2.4 Principle 4: DROPS Assurance ...................................................................................... 14
2.5 Forbidden equipment and practices ............................................................................... 14
2.6 Recommended Practices ................................................................................................ 15
2.7 Stricter Requirements ..................................................................................................... 15
3 DROPS Training and Campaigns ......................................................................................... 16
3.1 DROPS Training ............................................................................................................. 16
4 Roles and Responsibilities.................................................................................................... 17
5 Appendices ........................................................................................................................... 21
5.1 Appendix 1, Glossary of terms ........................................................................................ 21
5.2 Appendix 2, References.................................................................................................. 21
5.3 Appendix 3, Drop Calculator ........................................................................................... 23
5.4 Appendix 4,Tubular Handling Checklist guideline .......................................................... 24
5.5 Appendix 5, Picture book examples ............................................................................... 25
Revision: 4.0
5.6 Appendix 6, Equipment/Tools at Height register ............................................................ 26

5.7 Appendix 7, Derrick temporary Equipment checklist example ....................................... 27
5.8 Appendix 8, 10 Questions for a safe lift and model answers ......................................... 28
5.9 Appendix 9: Dropped Objects Classification Examples ................................................. 30
LIST OF TABLES
Table 3-1, DROPS Training 16
Table 4-1, Roles and Responsibilities 17
Table 5-1, Temporary equipment register 26
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 5-1, Drops Calculator ........................................................................................................ 23
Revision: 4.0
1 Background and Introduction

This specification specifies the requirements for the prevention of dropped objects and, if they do
occur, how to mitigate the consequences and the reporting requirements if any Dropped Object
Incident occurs.
The main body of the specification (Chapters 1 to 5) specifies the mandatory requirements and
the appendices provide reference material or guidance on how to comply.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to set out the mandatory requirements to prevent harm to
personnel and damage to equipment from dropped objects in the execution of PDO’s drilling,
completion and well intervention & abandonment activities.
1.2 Definitions
Dropped Object
A ‘dropped object’ is any item that falls from its previous position. This covers all items,
materials or objects of any mass/density. Dropped objects derive their capability for
damage and harm from the conversion of their potential energy to kinetic energy prior to
impact.
To emphasize prevention and elimination strategies including key controls, dropped or
potential dropped objects are classified as either static or dynamic.
Static dropped object
 A static dropped object is any object that falls from its previous position under its own
weight (gravity) without any applied force. For example, failure caused by corrosion,
inadequate securing.
 The prevention strategy is based on key controls such as but not limited to; design
integrity, reliable primary fixing ,secondary retention & safety securing of equipment
at height, preventive maintenance programs including DROPS checks, inspection
programs, hazard hunts for loose items, lift planning for equipment and tubular
handling ,safe working at height requirements including safe securing of tools when
working at height.
Dynamic dropped object
 A dynamic dropped object is any object that falls from its previous position due to
applied force e.g., collision involving travelling equipment, loose loads during lifting
and hoisting, unsecured tubular/drill pipe while hoisting to rig floor.
 The prevention strategy is based on key controls such as, but not limited to; design
of equipment including automation and (failsafe) control systems thereof, standard
operating procedures, lift planning for equipment and tubular handling, transport and
cargo handling requirements.
Primary Fixing
Principal method by which an item is installed, mounted, and secured to prevent the item from
falling (e.g., bolted connections, screws, pins, buckles, clips, welds)
Safety Securing
An additional mechanism for securing the item to the main structure that restrains the item or its
components from falling (e.g., rated steel, synthetic nets, lanyards, baskets, wires, slings)
Secondary Retention
Revision: 4.0
The engineered method for securing the primary fixing to prevent loss of clamping force or
displacement of fastening components (e.g., locking washers, locking wire, safety pins)
ALARP
As low as reasonably practicable, or ALARP is a term often used in the regulation and
management of safety-critical and safety-involved systems. The ALARP principle is that the
residual risk shall be reduced as far as reasonably practicable
1.3 Scope of Application of this Specification

1.3.1 Operations
This includes all operations and activities associated with the drilling, completion and intervention
in wells. This SHALL include the mobilisation and transportation of personnel and equipment to
or from the installation or until rig, hoist, mast or equipment comes ‘off-contract’, or, in the case
of PDO owned equipment, is removed from service.
1.3.2 Structures
This includes all structures, and equipment used in or on those structures, necessary for drilling
and servicing wells, including, but not limited to:
 Rigs, platforms, coiled tubing units, hydraulic work over/snubbing units, cranes, derricks,
masts, hoists, lifting baskets, cantilevers, flare booms, substructures, cellars, mobile elevated
work platform etc
 Personnel and equipment contracted to PDO
This includes all personnel and equipment working for or under contract to PDO, including the
contractors, sub-contractors and the equipment supplied or used by them when working on PDO
installations.
1.3.3 Exclusions
 Aircraft and helicopter operations

 Tools lost-in-hole
1.4 Review and Improvement

Any user of this document who wishes to provide constructive feedback, or who encounters a
mistake or confusing entry is requested to immediately notify the Document Custodian.
This document shall be reviewed as necessary by theDocument Custodian, but no less frequently
than every four years. Triggers for full or partial review of this Specification are listed in PR-1444,
well Engineering and Logistics Management Framework in Chapter 5.2.4, Document Review.
1.5 Management of Change

Any deviation from this specification SHALL be managed in accordance with SP-2150 – Wells
Management of Change.
Revision: 4.0
2 Mandatory requirements for a Dropped Objects Prevention

Scheme (drops)
2.1 Principle 1: DROPS Management Program

Contractors providing equipment and personnel on PDO well sites SHALL
have a DROPS Management Program that meets, as a minimum, the
following requirements.
2.1.1 All contracts for the provision of drilling, completion and well intervention services shall
comply with the requirements of this SP-2097, WE Specification for the Prevention of Dropped
Objects, SP-2275, Specification for Lifting and Hoisting Equipment Inspection and Testing
Requirements, SP 2273, Specification for Lift Planning and Execution, SP-1257, Work at Height
& Access, SP-2001, HSE Specification - Load Safety and Restraining and compliance shall be
verified prior to contract commencement.
2.1.2 The personnel roles and responsibilities, required competencies, training and
operational interfaces shall be documented and communicated.
2.1.3 A worksite DROPS Lead shall be appointed by the contractor for each worksite and be
accountable for the implementation of these DROPS mandatory requirements.
2.1.4 All service companies and contractors providing equipment’s/services to the major
contractor shall identify the Dropped Objects risks associated with their
equipment/services and communicate the same to the DROPS lead on location.
See Chapter 2.1 for details of some key roles and responsibilities.
2.2 Principle 2: DROPS Inspection
A systematic DROPS inspection program SHALL be in place that meets, as

a minimum, the following requirements.
2.2.1 An independent dropped object survey of the main structure shall be performed prior to
all Rig/Hoist & CWI start-ups1 and every two years thereafter or post major
overhaul/inspection schedule, which-ever is earlier.
2.2.2 The Dropped Object survey shall cover all potential equipment’s that will be mounted
onto the work units and camps during various phases of the operation e.g. Casing
Stabbing Board
2.2.2 Routine DROPS inspections shall be performed weekly. These inspections shall be
verified, once a month, with a follow-up inspection by the contractor’s representative The
PDO site representative is responsible for ensuring all inspections are completed.
2.2.3 A documented procedure including inspection requirements must be in place for
assembly/disassembly of modules at height, such as (but not limited to):
 Rig/Hoist substructure assembly/disassembly
 Pre- and post- mast raising/lowering
 Coil tubing tower assembly/disassembly
 Hydraulic work over unit assembly/disassembly
2.2.4 Dropped object inspections SHALL be performed following jarring of stuck pipe, activities
causing excessive vibrations or severe storms.
1
All CWI units except standalone Wire-line & Well Test Units SHALL be surveyed by 3rd party
before commissioning and thereafter at an interval of not more than 2 years.
Revision: 4.0
2.2.5 All equipment and loads SHALL be inspected prior to transportation, for secure retention
or removal of loose objects not intended for transportation to the operations site or return
to logistics base as per SP-2001, HSE Specification - Load Safety and Restraining.
2.3 Principle 3: DROPS Works Site Hazard management

Worksite hazard management of DROPS shall be in place that meets, as a
minimum, the following requirements.
2.3.1 Prevention of Dynamic Dropped Objects Lifting and Hoisting

 All lifting activities on site shall be managed using SP-2275, Specification for Lifting and
Hoisting Equipment Inspection and Testing Requirements and SP 2273, Specification for
Lift Planning and Execution
 A lifting and hoisting Person-in-Charge must be appointed for each lift.
 A lift categorization scheme must be in-place and prior to a lift to determine whether a lift is
routine, non-routine simple or non-routine complex. The appropriate controls must be
assigned based on the classification.
Note: Refer to the Section 8 in SP 2273, Specification for Lift Planning and Execution
for Lift Categorisation.
 All lifts must be planned and include a Risk Assessment/Lift plan. The level of planning and
approval must be as per the Lift Categorisation.
 The 10 Questions for a Safe Lift or equivalent must be used during the toolbox talk prior to
every lifting operation and repeated at crew change.
Note: Refer to Chapter 5.8, “Appendix 8, 10 Questions for a safe lift and model answers”
 Where In case multiple winches (tuggers) are used in the same work area, the winch handle
and attached hook/chain must be visibly uniquely identifiable to assist in ease of
identification and communication.
Tubular Handling
 Prior to start a lifting or hoisting activity, an inspection must be conducted by the person in
charge of the lift and include (but not limited to) physical verification that no loose items are
present in- or on the outside of the to-be lifted object(s) (e.g., inside the tubular(s), loose
protectors, on top, in between frame).
 For activities involving elevators to lift or hoist tubular, a pre-activity check must be conducted
and include (but not limited to) physical verification through measurement of internal diameter
(ID) of the elevator versus outside diameter (OD) of the tubular.
 A visual inspection of the elevator must be carried our prior to use to ensure the physical
integrity of the elevator i.e. lose slip inserts on a spider elevator or safety pin retention on a
single joint elevator
 A workplace checklist with respect to safe handling of tubular SHALL be used and applied for
tubular handling operations based on Appendix 4 prior to start of operation.(refer to
Chapter 5.4, “Appendix 4,Tubular Handling Checklist guideline”)
 Forklifts used for tubular handling should be fitted with a pipe clamp suited for the activity to
prevent pipes inadvertently rolling off the forklift. The clamp must be approved in writing for
the specific type of machinery by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). This
requirement is applicable to ALL accessories used on lifting and hoisting appliances (e.g.,
crane, forklift, far- reaches)2
2
This requirement will be mandatory for all new rig contracts
Revision: 4.0
Handling Tool strings and Lubricators

 Wireline crew guiding the winch operator must have a full view of the sheave, be in constant
communication and in line of sight with the winch operator and crane operator based on the
method agreed to during the lift planning stage.
2.3.2 Prevention of Static Dropped Objects

Equipment at height
 All equipment at height must be reliably secured. Equipment that is not an integral part of the
structure on which it is mounted must have a suitable safety securing to the structure.
Note: For information pertaining to reliable securing refer to http://www.dropsonline.org/
 A maintenance management system must record all permanent equipment at height, its
maintenance requirements and frequency. Maintenance activities must be performed in
accordance with the system requirements & OEM guidelines.
 Inventories must be in place and up to date for all equipment at height, including method of
primary and secondary means of reliable securing including safety securing. The specific
location, correct installation and retention of all permanent and temporary equipment in the
inventories must be shown in a picture book or equivalent system that is available on-site.
Equipment condition must be visually inspected against the requirement in the picture book
(or equivalent) during weekly inspections.
Note: Refer to Chapter Error! Reference source not found. “Error! Reference source
not found.”
 Appropriately rated safety securing lines shall be installed as a minimum underneath all
winch, tong hanging and other load bearing lines in such a manner as to catch the line in the
event it ‘jumps’ the sheave or one of the components of the sheave rigging system fails. The
Safety line shall be secured to an independent point and not to the same suspension point as
the sheave itself. Ideally, the safety line will also be secured integrally through the sheave
cheek plates. The safety line shall not interfere with the effective operation of the sheave
mechanism (sheaves/ESP etc.).
 A Management of Change procedure shall be followed prior to mounting fixtures to existing
structures, or installing new equipment at height, and shall include engineering design review
and approval at appropriate level in the Asset owner’s organisation.
 All equipment fitted must be able to perform its full functionality without restrictions and risk
of collision.
Working at Height
Mandatory requirements as included in SP-1257, Work at Height & Access must be

complied with.
Additionally:
 Equipment/tools used to work at height must be inspected , fit-for-use and inventory control
SHALL be in place to manage/control the tools.
 All equipment’s and tools to be used at height must be tethered to prevent them from
dropping.
 A temporary equipment at height register, including hand tools used by persons at height
must be in place and should include an auditable log of hand tools checked out/in.
Note: For more information on the Safe Use of Tools & Equipment at Height refer to
http://www.dropsonline.org/ (DROPS Reliable Securing Booklet Rev 04 › DROPS
Online)
Revision: 4.0
2.3.3 DROPS Red Zones & Temporary No Go Zones

Effective implementation and active management of DROPS No-Go and Red Zones
thereof is a key barrier to significantly reduce the likelihood of personal injury in case an
object drops. DROPS No-Go and Red Zones can change shape and dimension,
depending on the activity to take place in the area. Therefore, DROPS No-Go and Red
Zones SHALL be actively managed to control access. Staff SHALL be informed through
induction or other means of the workings of the No-Go and Red Zones.
An area authority for the zones SHALL be clearly identified and he will be responsible to
manage entry into the DROPS Red Zone & No Go Zone.
2.3.4 DROPS Red Zone

A DROPS Red Zone is an area for which a high or medium potential consequence for dropped
objects has been identified during the risk assessment and in which people are required to be
present during standard operations to conduct their tasks.
This Red Zone shall cover all potential line of fire hazards and extend to all objects with stored
energy, i.e. not only to objects that could drop but also to other objects such as tongs, rotating
equipment (i.e. top drive link tilts) etc.
Access to a DROPS Red Zone SHALL be controlled and authorised by the Area Authority or
delegate of the applicable red zone area. The Area Authority or delegate SHALL ensure:
 Only personnel who have a specific responsibility to conduct the task are authorised to enter
the DROPS Red Zone
 All personnel entering a DROPS Red Zone are made aware of the hazards, including
machinery which may be operated during the task
 Minimum exposure time of required personnel in the DROPS Red Zone
 The area on the rig floor, substructure & catwalk area shall be a permanent Red zone with
clearly identified Area Authority.
 For rigs a hard barrier around the catwalk area shall be maintained
 Unit specific RED ZONE map shall be displayed near to the red zone and shall be used
during the Tools Box talks to inform people of the hazards related to Dropped Objects,
Note: Examples of Area Authority: Driller for the Rig floor area, Asst Driller /Roustabout
foreman for Catwalk area, Operator for CT units etc.
2.3.5 DROPS Temporary No-Go Zone

A DROPS No-Go zone is an area for which a high potential (HIPO) consequence for dropped
objects has been identified during the Risk Assessment and where people are not normally
present or required to be present during standard operations. The following SHALL be complied
with:
 DROPS No-Go Zones are to be physically barricaded off (e.g., by gates, fence or chains)
and signage be placed to prevent unauthorised access to the work site.
 The extent of the barricaded zone must take into account the height an object can drop
from, the potential path it may take (including deflection) and environmental factors. Access
to DROPS No-Go Zone SHALL be controlled by a documented method (e.g. Area Authority
managing the entry to the Zone, Permit to Work (PTW) system etc).
 A permanent Red zone can be upgraded to a temporary No Go zone depending on the
activity taking place in that area
Note: Examples of DROPS temporary No-Go zones area near a catwalk/substructure
when continuous tubular handling activity takes place or additional dynamic
dropped risks are introduced i.e. a crane lifting items to the rig floor etc, work area
Revision: 4.0
close to the catwalk and/or (semi-) automated pipe- handling system, area
designated by the path of the Coiled Tubing Reel to the injector head, area
designated by the path of the Wireline from the Wireline unit to the Wireline
lubricator on the well etc.
2.3.6 Zone Maps

 Permanent Red Zones & Step back Safety Zones on location SHALL be identified on a site
specific Zone Map and displayed on the location. Step back safety zones adjacent to the
Red Zone SHALL be clear of obstacles.
 This Zones/Step back SHALL be identified as part of the Dropped Objects Survey done on
the unit.
 The zone map should be based on the risk of all potential static dropped objects and when
any activity with the potential of dynamic dropped object arises the zones SHALL be
extended based on the risk or made into a No Go Zone
Note: If rig/hoist dimensions make the creation of Step Back safety zones impossible or
impractical, a separate Risk Assessment must be made to identify an agreed step
back area.
 The area authority for the zones SHALL be clearly identified and mentioned in the Zone
Map
2.4 Principle 4: DROPS Assurance
Audits to check for compliance with this Specification SHALL be in place

that meets, as a minimum, the following requirements.
2.4.1 L1,L2,L3 audits on compliance to this specification SHALL be carried out against the
company assurance frame work.
2.4.2 L2 Drops audit can be part of worksite hazard audits
2.5 Forbidden equipment and practices

Numerous incidents have occurred as a result of misuse of equipment, lack of maintenance or
misplaced creativity by individuals trying to get the job done. To avoid such incidents, as a
minimum the following high risk items are forbidden.
 Uncertified lifting equipment including ‘home made’ lifting devices.
 Surface drill pipe filters.
 Use of hammers with wooden handles at height.
 Bolts secured with a double nut arrangement.
 Use of welding rods/wire/tie wraps instead of properly engineered split pins.
 Use of hooks3 on any part of the rigging on winch lines and stabbing board.
 Slings wrapped around derrick/mast beams.
 Unsecured water bottles, grease tubes/guns, etc.
3
Because of the dynamic activity, Hoists are permitted to use Crosby Shur Loc (or equivalent)
hooks while picking up & laying down tubular provided they have a clear procedure & Risk
assessment in place for the use of these hooks, control and inspection procedure clearly made
available for the site management. These hooks SHALL be inspected every six months and
replaced every year
Revision: 4.0
 Drifting stands in the derrick without a formally documented procedure and JSA detailing
how the No-Go or Red Zones will be controlled.
2.6 Recommended Practices

 Provision of hydration backpack for water,
 Use of hard hat recommended for working at height/ derrick etc.
2.7 Stricter Requirements

Where contractors own requirements or national legislation dictates stricter requirements than
specified in this specification, then the stricter requirement SHALL take precedence over the
governing requirements of this specification.
Revision: 4.0
3 DROPS Training and Campaigns

3.1 DROPS Training
Table 3-1, DROPS Training
Training Content Target Audience Requirement Frequency
Prevention of Dropped Introduction to DROPS All PDO Well Engineering Mandatory Every three years
Objects Awareness Specification and Staff14
Training (PDOAT) supporting documents
Key contractor staff (Operations
(Computer Based) Awareness Level manager, DS, Tool Pusher, Rig
Manager, HSE Manager, HSE
Advisor, Senior operator,
DROPS lead & DROPS Area
Authority etc.)4
All remaining crew members25
Slinger Signaler Minimum requirements All crew as per SP 1157 Mandatory As per ABA
with respect to key Health, Safety and Environment
controls for safe lifting Training Specification
and hoisting
operations. Worksite DROPS Lead
Knowledge Level. Drops Focal Points
DROPS Learning Learning packs for Worksite DROPS Lead Recommended As per need (This
Packs face to face training on is a
specific topics All Crew comprehensive
 No-Go Zones and pertaining to DROPS training and can
Red Zones to educate site based taken by anyone
 Tools at Height staff on content and who wants to
mandatory and understand more
 Drilling Equipment
recommended controls details of the 7
 Tubular Handling as included in the areas)
 Handling Tool DROPS Specification
strings and and supporting
Lubricators documents.
 Winches and Knowledge Level.
Tuggers
 Lifting and Hoisting
Note:
The contractor need to ensure all crew are aware of the Dropped object risk on site by having a
fit for purpose awareness training( the online training can be extended to all crew)
Additional DROPS training courses may be added to above list when available and deemed
suitable, some of these may be mandatory.
4
Individual training completion certificate required
5
This can be done by the drops focal point/drops lead as a group session and records of attendance maintained
Revision: 4.0
4 Roles and Responsibilities

Table 4-1, Roles and Responsibilities
Role Responsibility/ Accountablity

DROPS Focal Point  Responsible to the Well Engineering director for
communicating this Specification in his/her region and
facilitating its implementation. The DROPS focal point
should become the regional/local Subject Matter Expert,
be fully familiar with the content of the specification and
contribute to updates to it. See the end of this Appendix
for a full role description
Senior Well Engineer/  Responsible for ensuring that the requirements of this
Team Leader specification are implemented on the units he/she is
responsible for and liaise with the PDO Drops focal point
for any issues arising during implementation
Contract Holder  Responsible for clarifying the requirements of this
specification during the contracting process and for
ensuring the contractor has a Dropped Objects
Management system in compliance with this specification
PDO Site Representative  Responsible on site for ensuring that the requirements as
per this manual is implemented on his/her site. He is also
responsible for verifying the DROPS inspections carried
out by the contractor on location
DROPS Focal Point  Responsible to the Contractor Management for
Contractor communicating this Specification in his/her organisation
and facilitating its implementation. The Contractor DROPS
focal point should be the Subject Matter Expert, be fully
familiar with the content of this specification and contribute
to updates to it. See the end of this Appendix for a full role
description.
Contractor Worksite  Accountable for implementation and compliance to this
DROPS Lead specification for the installation(s) he/she is responsible
for. As owner of the site DROPS campaign, the contractor
worksite DROPS lead is responsible for verification
inspections; follow through on actions arising and
identification and reporting of non-compliances
Area Authority  Responsible to ensure that the controls for Zone
management are available for the area he/she is
responsible. He shall ensure that the red zone is extended
or upgraded to a temporary No Go zone depending on the
activity and the area is clearly identified. He will act as the
area controller to prevent unauthorised entry of personnel
into the Red/Temporary No-Go zones.
DROPS Focal Point (DFP)  Acts as the PDO Focal Point and offers expert knowledge
role description and skills in order to generate and promote a positive
DROPS safety culture. This represents a key role in
helping control occupational risk and equipment damage.
The incumbent will work in partnership with PDO staff,
PDO’s contractors and, where appropriate, the regulators
 Responsible for ensuring that all relevant legislation is
adhered to and that the applicable standards and
practices are adopted. He / She helps to plan, implement,
monitor and review the protective and preventive
measures that PDO Projects are required or choose to
Revision: 4.0

follow, and work to minimise operational losses, accidents
and injuries.
Job Tasks:
 Participate or lead Regional/local DROPS forum.
 Post incident prevention programs and lessons
learned.
 Act as PDO’s representative on any industry-wide
DROPS steering committee.
 Collate PDO Wells Dropped Objects data, identify
trends and disseminate to wells management.
 Facilitate regular meetings with representatives of
PDO installations and contractors, focusing on
management and control of DROPS issues.
 Act as a focal point for rig teams, providing support for
resolving issues (e.g. reliable primary fixing,
secondary retention and safety securing, derrick
surveys, etc.).
 Disseminate the requirements of this Prevention of
Dropped Objects Specification to engineers and
supervisors in the region/local teams.
 Project Leader/Regional Focal Point for the Shell
Global DROPS campaign, to be run after issue of the
specification.
 Convey the ‘Life Saving’ rules as they apply to
DROPS.
 Facilitate or carry out DROPS risk assessments.
 Participate in installation audits to check the
effectiveness of DROPS inspections and DROPS
hazard identification.
 Lead in-house training programme covering DROPS
issues and risks.
 Consolidate records of inspection findings and
produce reports highlighting action for improvements.
 Liaise with regulatory bodies where applicable.
 Issue timely safety alerts for Dropped Object incidents
in co-operation with the HSE department and the line.
 Participate in significant DROPS incident
investigations.
 Participate in Incident Review Committee for Dropped
Object incidents.
Contractor DROPS Focal  Acts as the Focal Point and offers expert knowledge and
Point (DFP) role skills in order to generate and promote a positive DROPS
description safety culture within his organisation. This represents a
key role in helping control occupational risk and equipment
damage. The incumbent will work in partnership with his
worksite focal points and PDO focal point.
Revision: 4.0

 Responsible for ensuring that all relevant legislation is
adhered to and that the applicable standards and
practices are adopted. He/She helps to plan, implement,
monitor and review the protective and preventive
measures that PDO Projects are required or choose to
follow, and work to minimise operational losses, accidents
and injuries
Job Tasks:
 Participate or lead Regional/local DROPS forum.
 Post incident prevention programs and lessons
learned.
 Act as contractor’s representative on any industry-
wide DROPS steering committee.
 Act as a focal point for rig teams, providing support for
resolving issues (e.g. reliable primary fixing,
secondary retention and safety securing, derrick
surveys, etc.).
 Disseminate the requirements of this Specification
within his organization
 Convey the ‘Life Saving’ rules as they apply to
DROPS.
 Facilitate or carry out DROPS risk assessments.
 Participate in audits to check the effectiveness of
DROPS inspections and DROPS hazard
identification.
 Lead in-house training programme covering DROPS
issues and risks.
 Consolidate records of inspection findings and
produce reports highlighting action for improvements.
 Participate in significant DROPS incident
investigations.
 Participate in Incident Review committee for DROPS
incidents.
Revision: 4.0

Contractor Worksite  Accountable for implementation and compliance to this
DROPS Lead specification for the installation(s) he/she is responsible
for. As owner of the site DROPS campaign, the contractor
worksite DROPS lead is responsible for verification
inspections; follow through on actions arising and
identification and reporting of non-compliances
Job Tasks:
 Ensure the requirements of the PDO DROPS Object
Program is implemented in His/her location
 Ensure Drops inspections are done on a weekly basis
and they are verified
 Ensure the DROPS picture book is maintained and up
to date
 Ensure that the crew is trained in the DROPS
requirements
Revision: 4.0
5 Appendices
5.1 Appendix 1, Glossary of terms
Abbreviations Description
/definitions
May Indicates one possible course of action
Should Indicates a preferred course of action
SHALL Indicates a mandatory course of action (Step-Out required for deviation)
At height Above 2.0m elevation
Asset owner Typically the drilling contractor for a rig, PDO for a PDO owned and
operated installation or service contractor for other rental equipment.
Colour code In some areas, a colour code is used (and required by legislation) to
indicate validity of certification/inspection of the equipment.
C&WI Completions and Well Interventions
CT Coiled Tubing
DROPS Dropped Object Prevention Scheme
HIPO An unplanned HSE event, i.e. incident/near miss, which has the potential
severity to cause permanent disablement or death, i.e. ranked as level 4
or above severity on the RAM matrix.
JSA Job Safety Analysis
Lifting equipment Lifting equipment comprises lifting appliances (equipment performing the
lifting), lifting accessories (devices which connect the load to the lifting
appliance) and lifted equipment. (Ref. SP2275, Specification for Lifting and
Hoisting Equipment Inspection and Testing Requirements, Sec 4).
SWL Safe working load
SWE Senior Well Engineer
TL Team lead
5.2 Appendix 2, References

Document
1. CP-122, Health, Safety and Environment Mgmt System - CoP
2. PR-1444, Well Engineering Management Framework
3. SP-1157, HSE Specification - HSE Training
4. SP-1257, Work at Height & Access
5. SP-2001, HSE Specification - Load Safety and Restraining
6. SP-2150 - Well Delivery Process Management of Change
7. SP 2273, Specification for Lift Planning and Execution
8. SP-2275, Specification for Lifting and Hoisting Equipment Inspection and Testing
Requirements,
9. DROPS Forum: An industry forum aimed at eliminating dropped objects is available to
join at http://www.dropsworkpack.com/. There is also much educational material
available to download from this site.
http://www.dropsworkpack.com/downloads_tools.htm
Revision: 4.0
Document
10. SP-2001 HSE Specification - Load Safety and Restraining
11.
12. Industry Guidelines
 Dropped Object Prevention Scheme – Recommended Practice
 Common Guidelines for Independent Dropped Object Surveys
 Reliable Securing – Best Practice Recommendations for the securing of
equipment and tools at the worksite
 Recommended Guidelines for the use of Restricted Access Areas(Red Zones)
 Recommended Guidelines for the Safe Use of Tools at Height
 Backloading - Best Practice recommendations for Backloading Inbound Cargo
Revision: 4.0
5.3 Appendix 3, Drop Calculator
Figure 5-1, Drops Calculator

Remarks:
 The drops calculator provides a common benchmark in the classification of the potential
consequences of a dropped object. It can be used to assess the potential consequences to
people based on the height and weight of the dropped object without taking the barriers
present into consideration.
 There are several drops calculators available. It is recommended to use the following
drops calculator, which is the preferred tool for calculating drops:
 http://www.dropsonline.org/resources-and-guidance/drops-calculator/
Revision: 4.0
5.4 Appendix 4,Tubular Handling Checklist guideline

Tubular handling presents a significant risk and needs to be identified and assessed such that
personnel are protected from dropped objects. The purpose of this guideline is for contractors
capture the minimum requirements when developing a tubular handling checklist.
1. Did the contractor communicate to the workforce the hazards associated with tubular
handling?
 Proper use of tubular handling equipment
 People positions, pinch points, hands off, etc.
 Red zone, safe “stand back” areas and the escape route discussed in the event of a
dropped tubular
2. Is pipe handling system fully functional?

 Pipe racking system in derrick, including finger latches (if available)
 Pipe handling system, including automated catwalk
3. Are interlocking safety systems confirmed to be functional prior to starting the job?
 Slips and elevators
 Racking system
 Crown-o-matic/ Crownsaver
 Floor Saver etc
4. Did the contractor verify that systems are dimensionally correct for tubular handling
equipment including all of the following?
 Slips and elevators
 Pipe racking systems
 Finger board spacing
5. If the casing or tubing is handled by a third party sub-contractor:

 Drilling/Hoist contractor verified the sub-contractor’s tubular running system is correctly
sized
 Drilling/Hoist contractor verifies if interlocks are in use and functional prior to the start of
the job
6. During the pre-job assessment are the following conditions discussed?

 Stop the job and assess prior to starting work during abnormal or unplanned conditions
 Ensure the load path is clear of any obstructions at all times and monitor any lifted load
/moving object to avoid collision ( use spotter if needed)
Revision: 4.0
5.5 Appendix 5, Picture book examples

Photograph Photo Ref Description/Location Fastening Method How to inspect Signature
DRL01 Camera Primary securing: Bolted to Check all bolts/nuts/washers are in place
mounting bracket and secure.
Location: Rig Floor
Secondary Retention: lock Ensure the camera is properly secured.
nuts/washers
Check condition of safety net signs of
Safety Securing: Safety nets corrosion
DRL02 Snatch Block Primary securing: Secured to Check sheaves are secure and in good
derrick pad eye with 4 part condition.
Location: Crown bloc shackle
Check condition of safety securing sling
Secondary retention: locknut
and shackle ensuring both are in place
& split pin.
and secure.
Safety Securing: Wire rope
secured to independent pad Check that snatch block and wire rope are
eye retained.
Ensure shackles fitted with split pins

Check for signs of corrosion
DRL03 Fall Arrestor Primary securing: Secured to Check fall arrestor are secure and in good
substructure pad eye with 4 condition.
Location : Substructure part shackle
Check condition of safety securing sling
Secondary retention: locknut
and shackle ensuring both are in place
& split pin.
and secure.
Safety Securing: Wire rope
secured to independent pad Check split pins available.
eye
Ensure shackles fitted with split pins
Check for signs of corrosion
Revision: 4.0
5.6 Appendix 6, Equipment/Tools at Height register

All temporary equipment at height SHALL be logged in Equipment at height register prior to installation/use at height . The temporary equipment register SHALL be
completed for all temporary equipment to ensure that all items are accounted for and have been removed from the completion of any task at height.
Temporary equipment includes all hand tools taken into the derrick.
Temporary equipment, such as wire line sheaves, coiled tubing equipment and casing handling equipment, which has to be rigged up in the derrick SHALL be subjected
to the same degree of scrutiny as the fixed derrick equipment. All lifting points, shackles, safety slings and lifting slings shall be visually inspected as a minimum by the
driller.
All third party equipment SHALL be inspected by the main contractor, prior to installation of the equipment at height.
The following register is to be filled out and updated by the Area authority. When this register is completed, it is to be kept on file for a period of six months.
Table 5-1, Temporary equipment register
Type of equipment Person Equipment at Area Authority Equipment Equipment Area Authority Comments
responsible height (date/time) signature ( removed from permanently signature
Driller/Snr height (date/time) installed
operator etc)
May not be the e.g. how the item
same shift when is secured if it is
the item comes left at height
down again
Revision: 4.0
5.7 Appendix 7, Derrick temporary Equipment checklist example

A derrick temporary equipment checklist (Chapter 5.7 “Appendix 7, Derrick temporary Equipment
checklist example”) should be completed prior to installation of equipment in derrick.
Item Task Checked

1 Current certification for all lifting equipment used to install temporary
equipment in the derrick (i.e. slings, shackles, snatch blocks and lifting
points) is available on the rig and has been checked by the relevant
Supervisor, including valid certification for the temporary equipment itself
(if applicable).
2 Safe working load, color code and identification number is clearly visible
on all lifting equipment to be used for this task.
3 All securing methods to be used for temporary equipment comply with the
Asset owner’s requirements and guidelines.
4 Appropriate rigging equipment as specified in the asset owners (e.g.
drilling contractor) specifications is to be used to anchor temporary
equipment in the derrick, e.g. a sling wrapped around derrick steel work
is not acceptable, a beam clamp/pad eye be used.
5 Temporary equipment rigging and securing arrangement has been
discussed with a qualified person.
6 Temporary equipment rig-up will be checked for balance as close as
possible to the rig floor prior to hoisting into the derrick.
7 Pad eye or structure from which the temporary equipment is suspended
is adequate for the maximum possible load and has valid certification.
8 Proposed location of temporary equipment in the derrick has been
assessed by the Asset owner to check for potential clashes with derrick
travelling equipment, e.g. top drive, racking arms, winch wires, etc.).
9 If applicable, the senior third party representative has given written
verification that his equipment has been inspected for defects (e.g.
damage during transportation) prior to use.
10 Derrick temporary equipment register has been completed detailing
number, location and type of all temporary equipment in the derrick.
Ensure register is updated as soon as equipment is removed from the
derrick.
Supervisors’ signature Name Date
Printed 14/11/2021 WE Specification for the Prevention of Dropped Objects Page 27

Revision: 4.0
5.8 Appendix 8, 10 Questions for a safe lift and model answers

1. Is everyone aware of and do they fully understand the lifting and hoisting procedures
applicable to the lift?
All personnel involved in the performance of the lift have undertaken training by a competent person to
familiarise them with the local lifting procedures and required controls which are specified in HSE-MS
and interface documents etc. The Lifting and Hoisting Person-In-Charge appoints persons to the lifting
team who have undertaken such training.
Make these prompts, e.g.:
 Has everybody been trained by a competent person?

 Have all people involved been appointed by the L&H person-in-charge?
2. Has everyone attended the toolbox talk?
The Lifting and Hoisting Person-In-Charge ensures that all personnel involved in the performance of the
lift or who may be affected by it (adjacent work parties, owners of equipment in the load path etc.) actively
attend the tool box talk from the start until completion.
3. Has a pre-use inspection of the lifting equipment been carried out and are the lifting
accessories tagged or marked with:
 Safe working load
 A unique identification number
 A valid certification date
All lifting equipment has been inspected by a competent person prior to commencing the lift. It is usual
to use a checklist to ensure all aspects of the inspection are addressed. Appropriate lifting accessories
will have been selected from the rigging loft and visually inspected by the designated competent person.
If deficiencies are identified the lift will be postponed until they are rectified.
4. Are all safety devices working?
All safety devices appropriate to the lifting equipment are verified for serviceability before use. Where
faulty safety devices are present, the lifting equipment will not be used.
5. Does everyone know the Person-In-Charge of the lift?
A competent person who has overall control of the lift or hoist activity and acts on behalf of the
management of the organization requiring the load to be moved.
6. Is everyone competent and aware of his or her tasks?
The Lifting and Hoisting Person-In-Charge ensures that, by virtue of appropriate questioning, all personnel
in the lifting team understand their roles and responsibilities for the lift/hoist activity.
7. Is there a current “lift plan” and job safety analysis (JSA), and does everybody
understand the job and precautions?
The Lifting and Hoisting Person-In-Charge ensures that a fit-for-purpose JSA and lift plan are prepared
for the lift and that the type of lift plan is based on a lifting categorization scheme. Where generic lift
plans and JSA are to be used, must be reviewed and amended where necessary to ensure they
accurately reflect current conditions.
8. Does everyone know the environmental limits (e.g., maximum permissible wind speed)
for the lift?
Prior to any lift, the Lifting and Hoisting Person-In-Charge must verify that the environmental conditions
are within permissible limits and will suspend the lift if limitations are exceeded. The lifting team members
must be informed of the STOP the Job Criteria with respect to environmental limits.
Revision: 4.0
9. Is the lift area controlled and is everyone clear if the load falls or swings?
Prior to the lift commencing; the lift area, landing area and load travel path have to be assessed and
action taken to prohibit incursion by personnel not involved in the lifting/hoisting operation. Barriers and
signs are to be used where necessary.
10. Are signalling methods and communication agreed and clear to you?
Standardized signalling methods must be used, which will include radios and/or hand signals. It must be
made clear that only the signaler/banksman are to communicate with the lifting appliance operator,
except for emergency stop signal which may be given by any person.
Revision: 4.0
5.9 Appendix 9: Dropped Objects Classification Examples
Dropped or Fallen Any object that Include:

Objects drops or falls from
its previous  Objects that fall due to manual handling (e.g.,
position. hand tools, floor grating, scaffold boards or
poles)
 Objects that fall due to impact of moving
equipment or machinery
 Objects that fall due to lifting and hoisting
 Objects that fall due to failure of structures or
fittings (e.g., corrosion, loose insulation, bolts,
fallen scaffolding)
 Objects that fall due to severe weather or winds
(e.g. storms, helicopter downwash, etc.)
 Objects that fall from a stationary vehicle during
loading or unloading
 Objects that fall from a forklift during loading or
unloading
Exclude:
 People who fall due to working at heights and/or
structural failure of handrails, walkways or floor
grating (classify under Falls from Height -
People)
 Objects that fall after being ejected from their
previous position by a sudden release of stored
energy (classify under Struck by Moving Objects
or Machinery)
 People who are struck by a swinging load during
lifting and hoisting (classify under Struck by
Moving Objects or Machinery)
 Cranes that tilt or overturn during lifting and
hoisting operations (classify under Struck by
Moving Objects or Machinery)
 Secured loads that fall from vehicles while in
transit (classify under Road Transport)

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Petroleum Development Oman L.L.C.

Prevention of Dropped Objects

Document Type Specification

Security Restricted (Information Security Classification Definitions)

Discipline Well Engineering

Owner Wells Corporate Functional Discipline Head

Issue Date November 2021

Version Version No.4

Link http://cms.portal.corp.pdo.om/Published/SP-2097.pdf (Intranet)

Keywords: Dropped Objects, DROPS Forum, forbidden equipment and practices

This page was intentionally left blank

Authorised For Issue: November 2021

Document Authority Document Custodian Document Author

Revision No. Date Author/ Editor Changes/ Remarks

iii Related Business Processes

iv Related Corporate Management Frame Work (CMF)

http://www.pdo.co.om/hseforcontractors in the category “General” under the title “Simplified HSE

5.6 Appendix 6, Equipment/Tools at Height register ............................................................ 26

1 Background and Introduction

1.3 Scope of Application of this Specification

 Aircraft and helicopter operations

1.4 Review and Improvement

1.5 Management of Change

2 Mandatory requirements for a Dropped Objects Prevention

2.1 Principle 1: DROPS Management Program

2.2 Principle 2: DROPS Inspection

A systematic DROPS inspection program SHALL be in place that meets, as

2.3 Principle 3: DROPS Works Site Hazard management

2.3.1 Prevention of Dynamic Dropped Objects Lifting and Hoisting

Handling Tool strings and Lubricators

2.3.2 Prevention of Static Dropped Objects

Mandatory requirements as included in SP-1257, Work at Height & Access must be

2.3.3 DROPS Red Zones & Temporary No Go Zones

2.3.4 DROPS Red Zone

2.3.5 DROPS Temporary No-Go Zone

2.3.6 Zone Maps

2.4 Principle 4: DROPS Assurance

Audits to check for compliance with this Specification SHALL be in place

2.5 Forbidden equipment and practices

2.6 Recommended Practices

2.7 Stricter Requirements

3 DROPS Training and Campaigns

Training Content Target Audience Requirement Frequency

Knowledge Level. Drops Focal Points

4 Roles and Responsibilities

Role Responsibility/ Accountablity

Role Responsibility/ Accountablity

Role Responsibility/ Accountablity

Role Responsibility/ Accountablity

5.2 Appendix 2, References

5.3 Appendix 3, Drop Calculator

Figure 5-1, Drops Calculator

5.4 Appendix 4,Tubular Handling Checklist guideline

2. Is pipe handling system fully functional?

5. If the casing or tubing is handled by a third party sub-contractor:

6. During the pre-job assessment are the following conditions discussed?

5.5 Appendix 5, Picture book examples

Ensure shackles fitted with split pins

Check for signs of corrosion