March 20, 2026
The BDA Technical & Standards Sub-Committee met virtually on 3rd March 2026, to discuss a range of technical matters including drilling guidance, wire rope inspection requirements, audit trends, updates to British Standards, and emerging industry topics such as the National Underground Asset Register.
Key Highlights:
- Leadership Transition and Committee Updates – Lee Healey welcomed members to the meeting and David Bradley, who attended in preparation for taking on the role of BDA Chair following the AGM in May. The committee thanked members for their continued contributions to the technical work of the Association.
- Wire Rope Inspection Requirements – The committee discussed the appropriate inspection intervals for rig wire ropes. Where a rope is fitted to a rig at the time of a LOLER examination and forms part of the rig assembly, it is treated as part of the machine and inspected on a 12-month cycle under PUWER. However, where a rope is fitted after the LOLER examination, it is considered an accessory and is therefore subject to a 6-month LOLER inspection interval. This interpretation aligns with current rotary guidance, and for avoidance of doubt inspections should still be undertaken every 6 months when used in harsh environments and heavy continual use, for example those fitted to CP rigs.
- Inspection Pit Drilling Queries – A query was raised regarding whether a specific specification exists for drilling boreholes associated with inspection pits. The committee confirmed that safety procedures should follow the established guidance within HSG47 and PAS128.
- Members’ Access to Standards – The committee discussed how BDA members access relevant technical standards. The possibility of copyright-marked documentation or improved access to BSI resources will be explored further.
- BDA Audit Quality Dashboard – The latest annual audit dashboard was presented. Key findings included recurring minor issues relating to drilling in known coal areas and major issues concerning formal training on wireline systems. Guidance on both topics has already been developed by the Training & Education group. A separate meeting with the audit team may be arranged to review technical aspects in more detail.
- BSI Standards and Technical Updates – Several important British Standards updates were highlighted, including the publication of BS 10175:2026, which provides updated guidance for the investigation of potentially contaminated sites. Additional updates included developments in Eurocode 7 consultations, revisions to ISO environmental management systems standards, and the promotion of inclusive PPE guidance. Upcoming updates to ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 were also noted.
- AI Governance and Emerging Standards – The committee discussed BSI Knowledge resources relating to AI governance, including standards covering AI management systems and impact assessments. These resources provide organisations with tools to support responsible adoption of AI technologies.
- Industry Collaboration Updates – Updates were shared regarding collaboration with industry groups. Work continues within the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists (AGS) on guidance for trial pitting, expected to be issued during 2026. No updates were reported from the Federation of Piling Specialists or Ground Forum.
- Technical Topics for Industry Articles – Potential future technical articles were discussed, including a piece highlighting recent PPE standards developments and broader industry discussions around social value. The committee also noted the role members can play in promoting careers in the sector through engagement with schools and colleges.
- National Underground Asset Register – The committee discussed engagement with the National Underground Asset Register. A demonstration is expected to be arranged for members, while wider discussions continue around sharing geotechnical data to support national infrastructure planning.
- Industry Competence and Site Experience – Members discussed a growing concern around the balance between engineering supervision and practical drilling experience on site, particularly in the context of industry recruitment challenges. The committee noted the importance of maintaining competence across all operational roles.
