March 12, 2026
The BDA Health & Safety Sub-Committee met on 5th March 2026. The meeting covered updates on training initiatives, operational guidance for cable percussion drilling, vibration exposure findings, and wider safety matters affecting the drilling industry.
Key Highlights:
- Leadership Transition and New Members – Paul Breslin welcomed members to the meeting and introduced David Bradley, who attended in preparation for taking on the role of Chair following the BDA AGM in May. Kostas Tsiminis of Igne was also welcomed to the committee.
- Hydraulic Hose Training Programme – Work continues on the development of an industry awareness training resource focusing on hydraulic hose safety. Images, videos and supporting scripts highlighting common risk points have now been received and will be assembled into a training module, which will include an assessment element.
- Manual Handling Training for the Industry – The committee confirmed that subsidised industry training will soon be available, including manual handling and “Train the Trainer” (POPS) programmes delivered by Pristine Condition. The training has been developed following analysis of accident statistics and aims to address the most common causes of incidents across the drilling sector.
- Cable Percussion Drilling (Crew Competence and Supervision) – The committee reviewed a query from an external client regarding the competence and supervision required during cable percussion operations. BDA guidance was clarified, confirming that a minimum crew of two competent operatives, comprising a lead driller and a support operative, is required for key activities such as mobilisation, rig erection and casing extraction. The committee also discussed the need for improved training pathways and competency structures within the sector.
- Future Training and Competency Frameworks – Discussions highlighted the importance of structured competency development, including progression towards VQ cards. In the interim, the committee considered the potential for a checklist-based approach to help support lead drillers while wider training reforms are developed.
- CP Rig Transport and O-Licence Clarification – The committee reviewed regulatory requirements relating to towing cable percussion rigs. Advice received from transport specialists confirmed that CP rigs do not need to be listed on an Operator’s Licence where they fall under “tools of trade” exemptions and are operated within appropriate weight and distance limits. The topic will be incorporated into the ongoing Safety Guidance review.
- Cable Tool Safety Incident – A reported incident involving a CP rig leg vibrating off a mudguard and striking an operative was discussed. The committee recommended that mudguards should incorporate appropriate lugs to prevent this occurring. A safety alert will be issued to raise awareness of the risk.
- Working at Height on Rotary Rigs – Concerns were raised regarding drillers standing on rig jaws to insert SPT rods, particularly on goose-neck systems. The committee discussed safer alternatives, including the use of drill-through tanks and shorter rods. Further investigation will be carried out with the aim of communicating best practice guidance to members.
- HAVS and Whole-Body Vibration Findings – Initial findings from HAVS and whole-body vibration investigations were reviewed. Higher vibration levels were observed when operating on man-made substrates, with certain equipment configurations requiring more manual intervention. Further research is underway to identify practical solutions.
- Load Securing During Rig Transport – Following a fatal accident involving a rig falling from a trailer, the committee agreed that a safety alert should be considered regarding the securing of loads when towing rigs. A potential joint alert with the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists (AGS) will be explored.
- Audit Update – Audit performance remained strong, with January recording particularly high activity levels. Two audit failures were noted, relating to a non-functioning emergency stop button and a guarding issue.
- BDA Safety Guidance Review – The updated BDA Safety Manual continues to progress, with committee members currently reviewing this in stages and providing feedback ahead of the next meeting.
