By Colin Rice · Colin Rice Exploration Drilling Advisory · www.colinrice.co.za

In the series on wireline retrieval we have examined many of the risks associated with wireline retrieval - in this final article we summarise the recommendations to reduce the risks that we identified.

This is the third article in Part 2 of our Technical Series on Wireline Retrieval Operations. Click here for an outline of the entire Technical Series on Wireline Retrieval Operations.

In the Wireline Retrieval Series the articles have examined hazards associated with wireline retrieval (inner-tube head assemblies and overshots). This article provides some recommendations as a first step in reducing the risks associated with wireline retrieval operations.

We recommend that contractors:

1. Use a safety overshot that positively locks the lifting dogs of the overshot .

2. Use an additional safety device, such as a safety chain or sling in addition to the chosen safety overshot.

3. Develop a documented standard procedure for terminating the wireline cable at the cable swivel assembly and that the load at which the rope will part at that point is established.

4. Develop a documented standard procedure for joining wireline cable and that all necessary operational staff are trained in the procedure.

5. Establish a policy that will ensure that overshot and inner-tube components are sourced only from the OEM so that mixing of components from different manufacturers cannot take place.

6. Institute a procedure to inspect all critical elements of the wireline retrieval system as a part of their daily pre-start inspection. These elements will include:

• wireline cable

• wireline spooling system, if applicable

• swivel assembly and cable attachment

• inner-tube latches and bearings.

•  wireline sheaves

• lifting dogs and lifting dog spring

• spearpoint

• knucklehead detent action

• jar staff and jar tube attachments

• cable swivel assembly and cable attachment

• inner-tube latches and bearings.

We hope that these recommendations will help in reducing the occurrence of wireline related accidents.

Other Articles In Part 2 Of The Wireline Retrieval Operations Series