November 17, 2025
The BDA Health & Safety (H&S) Sub-Committee met mid-November. The attendees shared updates around hydraulic hose safety, CP rig wind loadings, whole body vibration monitoring, transport compliance, occupational health, and audit administration.
Key Highlights:
- Hydraulic Hoses Position Paper Final Review – The committee confirmed that the updated Hydraulic Hose Position Paper is ready for publication. A short, practical visual inspection will be incorporated into pre-operational checks, supported in future by a training video (to complement, not replace, hands-on instruction).
- Cable Percussion Drilling Wind Loadings – A contractor query led to discussion on appropriate operating limits for CP rigs in high winds. Manufacturers’ guidance and crane industry recommendations (BS7121 inspired) will be adapted into a BDA advisory document for wider member awareness and a safety alert will also be issued.
- Rotary Drilling Non-Compliant Set-up on Social Media – An instance of non-compliant rotary rig presentation on a social media platform was reported. This will be reviewed offline, with follow-up advice to be provided.
- Whole Body Vibration Testing for Sonic and Vibratory Activities – Initial whole body vibration results were presented and found to be well within exposure limits. Further assessment across full rig fleets will continue, with findings to be shared at future meetings.
- Towing & O-Licence Requirements – BDA Auditors have reported ambiguity regarding trailers over 3.5 tonnes and the requirement for a restricted O-licence. Further regulatory clarity will be sought to inform a consistent industry position and ensure members understand compliance expectations.
- Mental Health Communications – A seasonal mental health blog focused on isolation during the Christmas period will be prepared and promoted to members as part of the committee’s wider occupational health focus.
- BDA Audit Administration – Twenty-two audits have been completed to date, with activity easing towards year-end. To improve the flow of H&S-related information, the BDA membership application form will be updated to capture the designated H&S contact for each member company.
- Safety Guidance Review – Committee members will review the latest Safety Guidance Status Report ahead of the next sub-committee meeting.
- AGS Representative Update – Progress continues on the AGS Safety Manual refresh, with recent trial pitting webinars receiving positive engagement. The industry remains without a fully compliant trial pitting solution; temporary works remains an issue requiring future attention. The buried services document awaits final AGS sign-off (BDA has already approved this document). The AGS will hold a Safety Conference in late 2026, the BDA is likely to provide a speaker.