Derrickhand – Job Roles and Responsibilities

1. Job Summary

A Derrickhand (Derrickman) is a critical member of the drilling crew, responsible for working high above the rig floor in the derrick structure, managing the mud circulation system, and assisting with pipe handling during drilling operations. Their primary role involves monitoring and maintaining drilling fluid systems, operating mud pumps, handling drill pipe, and ensuring safe and efficient rig operations.

Derrickhands work closely with the Driller, Assistant Driller, and Roughnecks to keep drilling operations running smoothly. Since they work at heights of up to 90 feet (27 meters) above the rig floor, they must have strong physical endurance, balance, and a deep understanding of safety procedures.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Working at Heights & Pipe Handling

• Climb the derrick (typically 80-90 feet) and secure themselves using a safety harness.
• Rack back drill pipe during tripping operations, ensuring pipe is properly secured.
• Assist in laying down and picking up pipe using tongs, elevators, and slips.
• Ensure proper alignment of drill pipe, collars, and casing.
• Use tail ropes and tag lines to control pipe movement safely.
• Communicate with the Driller and Floorhands using hand signals and radios.

B. Mud Circulation & Fluid System Management

• Monitor and maintain drilling fluid properties (weight, viscosity, pH levels).
• Operate and maintain mud pumps, mud tanks, and shaker screens.
• Conduct mud tests to check for gas contamination, viscosity, and density.
• Adjust drilling fluid mixtures using barite, bentonite, and other additives.
• Ensure proper functioning of degassers, desanders, and desilters.
• Prevent well control issues by maintaining the correct mud weight and pressure balance.
• Clean and replace mud screens, pump liners, and valves as needed.

C. Safety & Emergency Procedures

• Ensure 100% tie-off at all times when working on the derrick board.
• Follow rig safety protocols (LOTO, JSA, PPE requirements).
• Conduct pre-job safety meetings (toolbox talks) before climbing the derrick.
• Respond quickly to well control situations (kicks, loss of circulation, gas influxes).
• Participate in blowout prevention (BOP) and well control drills.
• Ensure proper functioning of fall arrest systems and climbing gear.
• Maintain firefighting and emergency equipment in derrick areas.

D. Equipment Maintenance & Inspections

• Inspect derrick structure, crown block, and traveling block daily.
• Grease and lubricate crown sheaves, bearings, and wire ropes.
• Maintain mud pumps, pulsation dampeners, and fluid end components.
• Replace mud pump liners, pistons, valves, and seals as needed.
• Conduct vibration analysis and preventative maintenance on pump systems.
• Inspect monkeyboard, stabbing board, and safety harness anchor points.

E. Assisting with Well Control & Blowout Prevention

• Monitor pit levels and mud returns for signs of a well kick.
• Ensure correct mud weight (MW) to maintain wellbore stability.
• Assist with choke and kill line operations during well control events.
• Support the Driller in shutting down pumps during kick detection procedures.
• Understand and implement “Driller’s Method” and “Wait and Weight Method” of well control.
• Maintain blowout preventer (BOP) hydraulic fluid levels and assist in testing procedures.

3. Required Skills & Qualifications

A. Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of drilling fluid properties and functions.
• Ability to operate mud pumps, shakers, degassers, and fluid systems.
• Knowledge of pipe-handling procedures, derrick structures, and hoisting equipment.
• Familiarity with well control principles, choke manifolds, and kick detection methods.
• Understanding of mud weight calculations, pressure balance, and surge/swab effects.

B. Physical Fitness & Work Conditions

• Ability to climb, lift, and carry heavy loads (up to 100 lbs).
• No fear of heights – must work comfortably at 80-90 feet above the rig floor.
• Strong endurance for long shifts in extreme weather conditions.
• Good hand-eye coordination for handling pipes and using rig tools.

C. Communication & Teamwork Skills

• Must be able to effectively communicate with Driller and crew via radio and hand signals.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately.
• Strong teamwork skills to coordinate safe and efficient rig operations.

D. Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or GED (required).
• IADC WellSharp or IWCF Well Control Certification (preferred).
• Fall Protection and Working at Heights Certification.
• OSHA 30-Hour Safety Training or equivalent.
• H2S Awareness Certification (for high-risk gas zones).
• CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification.

4. Work Environment & Conditions

• Long rotational shifts (e.g., 14/14, 28/28) in remote land rigs or offshore platforms.
• Extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, and offshore environments).
• Heavy physical labor and high-risk work at heights.
• 24/7 drilling operations – must be alert and focused during shifts.
• Exposure to hazardous materials (chemicals, drilling fluids, high-pressure systems).

5. Career Progression.

A. Career Path

✅ Roustabout → Roughneck/Floorhand → Derrickhand → Assistant Driller → Driller → Toolpusher → Rig Manager

• Derrickhands who excel in their roles can be promoted to Assistant Driller within 2-3 years.
• Experienced Derrickhands can specialize in fluid engineering, BOP operations, or well control.

6. How to Become a Derrickhand?

1. Gain experience as a Roughneck/Floorhand (1-2 years).
2. Obtain well control and fall protection certifications.
3. Develop knowledge of mud systems and pipe-handling techniques.
4. Train under experienced Derrickhands and Assistant Drillers.
5. Apply for Derrickhand positions on drilling rigs.