Probably due to a large number of hand injuries whilst tripping drill rods, mining companies are increasingly requesting hands free rod handling systems. In the case of rotary percussion or reverse circulation drill pipe this makes great sense and we have seen many different designs of hands free systems. 

In the case of diamond drill rod, this is not so easy because of the relative frailty of wireline drill rod thread compared to API or modified API threads. As a consequence many systems accelerate thread wear and so possibly introduce more risk than is perceived.

These are some of the critical issues that will be discussed at the Drill Rig and Safety Innovation Forum on 20 July 2018 in Johannesburg. Don't miss out on this opportunity to listen to a wide range of industry experts. Register now at http://www.drillsafe.co.za/innovation-forum-2018-registration/