View PDF version

Informational Letter IL 90-18

17 September 1990

To: All Oil and Gas Operators
To: All Drilling Rig Contractors

SAFETY HAZARD: OPEN MOUSE/RAT HOLES AND CONDUCTOR PIPE

It has been brought to the attention of the ERCB and Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (AOHS) that mouse holes, rat holes, and conductor pipe are being left open and uncovered before well drilling operations commence. As well, many mouse holes and rat holes are left open after drilling operations are complete.

The ERCB and AOHS are concerned these holes may be a safety hazard to workers, members of the public, and to livestock. In view of this matter, operators and contractors are reminded to adequately cover the subject holes after they are drilled and to fill or plug them once the main drilling operation is complete.

[Original signed by]

Energy Resources Conservation Board
W. G. Remmer
Manager
Field Operations

and

Alberta Occupational Health and Safety
J. MacPherson
A/Coordinator
Field Operations