Water well drilling is a crucial technical process for accessing groundwater resources, which are widely used in agriculture, industry, and domestic needs. While it provides significant benefits, drilling activities also carry high safety risks for both workers and the surrounding environment.
Therefore, implementing Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards is mandatory at every stage of water well drilling. This activity typically involves heavy machinery, high pressure, and open working environments that are not always stable.
Potential Hazards in Water Well Drilling
Here are some common hazards that may occur during the drilling process:
1. Mechanical Hazards
Injuries caused by direct contact with drilling rigs or pipes during installation.
Accidents during rig-up or rig-down operations due to heavy loads and moving equipment.
2. Physical Hazards
Continuous noise exposure from drilling machines may cause hearing damage.
Prolonged vibration from heavy equipment increases the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
3. Chemical Hazards
Exposure to drilling mud and chemicals such as lubricants or fuel may cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Improper waste management can lead to soil and groundwater contamination.
4. Environmental Hazards
The potential release of underground gases, such as methane, which is highly flammable.
Soil collapse or landslides around the borehole due to ground instability.
5. Ergonomic Hazards
Non-ergonomic working positions and repetitive movements may cause muscle fatigue.
Improper manual lifting techniques increase the risk of back injuries.
Essential Safety Measures in Water Well Drilling
To minimize risks in the field, companies must consistently apply the following measures:
1. Safe Work Planning
Conduct a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) before starting drilling activities.
Determine the drilling method based on soil condition assessments.
2. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers must wear helmets, gloves, safety boots, eye protection, and hearing protection.
All PPE must be in proper condition and regularly inspected.
3. Worker Training and Competence
Operators and technicians must undergo technical training and hold OHS certifications.
Training should include the use of heavy equipment and emergency evacuation procedures.
4. Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
All drilling equipment must be checked daily.
Preventive maintenance should be carried out to avoid sudden equipment failures.
5. Communication and Emergency Response
Establish clear evacuation procedures and emergency routes.
Use radios or signal systems to maintain effective communication in the field.
6. Environmental Impact Management
Install protective barriers around the drilling site to prevent contamination.
Manage drilling mud and waste in compliance with environmental regulations.
Regulatory Standards and Guidelines
Workplace safety in water well drilling must comply with both national and international standards, including:
Law No. 1 of 1970 on Occupational Safety (Indonesia)
Minister of Manpower Regulation No. 5 of 2018 on OHS in the Work Environment (Indonesia)
ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management System
API & IADC Standards for safe drilling procedures
Workplace safety is not solely the responsibility of field workers but an integral part of drilling project management. By implementing the right OHS principles, companies can significantly reduce accident risks, improve productivity, and safeguard the environment around the drilling site.