The Derrick Hand is the crew member whose work station is in the derrick while drill pipe is being hoisted or lowered in the hole. He attaches the elevators to the stands of drill pipe while the pipe is being lowered into the hole and detaches the elevators and racks the pipe while the pipe is being hoisted out of the hole. Both operations involve the use of the arms and upper body to hold or pull the pipe. This operation could be repeated as many as 80 to 100 times during a 12-hour shift. He is responsible for greasing and inspecting the crown and all sheaves in the derrick. He must be mentally alert and physically fit while on duty. Other responsibilities of the Derrick Hand include mixing chemicals. The chemicals are packaged in paper bags and plastic buckets. The packages vary in weight from 20 to 80 pounds. Lifting and carrying is required to get the materials from the storage area to mixing areas. Manual handling of the packages or bags could require lifting from floor level to levels between 36 and 42 inches high. Unusual circumstances might require the lifting of numerous bags during a 12-hour shift. He is also responsible for watching the mud pits for an increase or decrease of mud volume, mud weight, and changes in funnel viscosity and gas cut mud. He must also watch and listen to the mud pumps to know when there is a problem. Activities will be as follows: The ability to push/pull items weighing 50lbs 20 to 175 times in a 12 hour period. The ability to lift items weighing 100lbs from the floor to 42' 10 to 20 times a day for a 12 hour period. The ability to carry items weighing 100lbs 10 to 20 times a day for a 12 hour period. The ability to stand up to 99% of the time. The ability to climb up to 35% of the time 20 to 50 steps. (Up and Down @ 12 times per shift) Primary Duties of this position require maximum level of physical activity. The employee must be able to tolerate 12 hours of standing, climbing, lifting, pulling, pushing, and carrying weights of up to 100 lbs. The work is performed outside with prolonged exposure to the environment, both hot and cold. Operations could also involve prolonged exposure to wet or damp conditions, i.e. working in rain, snow, and sleet. Muscle groups include: Quadriceps, Low Back Extensors, Hip Extensors, Abdominal, Latissimus Dorsi, Deltoid, Pectorals, and Hand Grip.
